The Dangers of Meth Use and Addiction

Methamphetamines faded from popularity and dropped in the number of overdoses among many drug users for several years. There are likely a variety of reasons, such as when certain synthetic opioids and other drugs became more popular among drug users. The reduction in meth-related overdoses and deaths changed over the past few years after a new surge in meth use, likely contributing to the increased need for drug rehab centers Orange County locations to provide treatment for methamphetamine addiction.

There is hope for individuals struggling with methamphetamine use and addiction. Comprehensive treatment offered by the drug rehab centers Orange County professionals potentially helps individuals regain control over their life and learn to live a healthier, more productive like without the serious risks associated with meth use.

Facts about Meth Use

Methamphetamines are not simply a drug that results in a temporary high and then everything goes back to normal. There are serious, even potentially deadly consequences to using meth. Addiction and death can occur after just a single use of methamphetamines.

More than 1.6 million adults in the U.S. used the psychostimulant drug between 2015 and 2018, with nearly 60 percent of those individuals considered to have a methamphetamine use disorder. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that over 22 percent of those individuals reported injecting meth in the previous one-year.

Dangers of Meth Use

It does not matter whether you inject meth, smoke it, snort it or swallow the oral form of the drug. It still affects your central nervous system and has the possibility of leading you down the dangerous path of addiction.

Some short-term effects of meth, even a small amount, include inability to sleep or relax, confusion, experiencing a decreased appetite, increased blood pressure, and rapid or an irregular heartbeat. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) reveals that long-term effects of meth use include addiction, paranoia, engaging in risky behaviors that increase the risk of contracting an STD, including HIV/AIDS, extreme itching, anxiety, or rotting teeth, often referred to as ‘meth mouth.’ The drug also possibly leads to changes in the structure and function of the brain, hallucinations, and violent behavior, along with extreme weight loss.

There were under 600 meth-related deaths in the U.S. in 1999. In 2018, there were nearly 13,000 meth-related deaths.

How Can I Get Help for my Meth Use Disorder?

There is no drug that cures meth use disorder. Comprehensive treatment programs help conquer the cycle of meth abuse and addiction. The first step is supervised detox. Cognitive behavioral therapy, counseling, and a program focusing on individualized treatment helps individuals in their recovery.

Start your new life today by overcoming the vicious cycle and dangerous, potentially fatal consequences of meth use.