Methamphetamine, often called meth, is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant chemically similar to other amphetamines. You may know the latter as Adderall or Dexedrine, medications often used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
However, recreational use of the drug is common. In 2019, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimated that 2 million American adults in the past year. Meth is the second most commonly used illicit stimulant by Americans, meaning that meth addiction treatment options are crucial to maintaining public health. Searching for a meth addiction treatment program near Boston, MA? Reach out to Rockland Recovery today by calling 855.732.4842 or contacting our team online.
What Should You Keep in Mind When Learning How To Overcome Meth Addiction?
First of all, learning how to overcome meth addiction is best done alongside professional help. Avoiding the dangers of continuing meth addiction is more important than maintaining your comfort or privacy. In many cases, you can even maintain your typical routine while also working on overcoming addiction.
If you’re not convinced that getting meth addiction treatment is necessary, perhaps you’re only focusing on the desirable effects of meth use — such as decreased appetite, increased activity, enhanced sociability, talkativeness, and feelings of pleasure. However, the truth is that meth addiction is harmful to the body, especially in long-term cases. Some effects of meth addiction include the following:
- Anxiety
- Cardiovascular issues — heart attack, irregular heartbeat, and more
- Damage to brain cells
- Increased risk of stroke and Parkinson’s disease
- Lung issues — chronic cough, bronchitis, and more
- Major dental issues — gum disease, tooth decay, and more
- Malnutrition and weight loss
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Nasal irritation
- Seizures
- Skin sores
- Trouble sleeping
- Violent or aggressive behavior
How Long Does It Take To Overcome Meth Addiction?
Most people struggling with a meth addiction will experience withdrawal symptoms during the detox process. While not as dangerous or complicated as detoxing from other addictive substances, experts still recommend medical detox for meth addiction cases.
Meth withdrawal symptoms can include seizures and even suicidal ideation, which can be life-threatening, so clients must have access to 24-hour medical care and supervision. The detox process may last up to a week. After seven days, clients are often stabilized and ready for further addiction treatments that address behavioral and cognitive issues. A comprehensive addiction treatment program may take a year or more to complete, but more intensive treatment programs can last only weeks and still be helpful.
When Should You Consider a Meth Addiction Treatment Program?
Admittance into a substance abuse treatment program is often the best way to overcome addiction. However, how long it takes to overcome meth addiction isn’t the same for everyone. Often, a client’s unique details and needs inform how long their addiction recovery takes.
For example, after one week, most clients are stabilized in the detox process. However, others may need more days or weeks to get to the point of transitioning into further addiction treatment. A comprehensive meth addiction treatment program can last for a year or more. The time commitment required may make considering professional help so difficult, but it’s important to remember that flexible addiction treatment programs are available.
If another mental health issue accompanies meth addiction — a dual diagnosis case — a comprehensive treatment plan to work on both conditions is ideal. Dual diagnosis cases need to be treated as soon as possible, as co-occurring mental health issues can worsen quickly because their symptoms may negatively affect each other.
Ready To Learn More About Rockland Recovery’s Meth Addiction Treatment Program?
If you’re looking for a meth addiction treatment program near Boston, MA, contact Rockland Recovery today. Reach out to our team online or call 855.732.4842.
