Different forms of substance abuse give off somewhat differing signs in the person who is abusing them, and methamphetamine is a good example. While some of the signs of meth addiction may be similar to other drugs, there are also several that are relatively unique to meth and other amphetamines in particular as well.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we’re proud to offer a wide range of alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs around Boise, Pocatello and other parts of Idaho, including both inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs for numerous substances, including meth. For those close to someone who may be showing signs of meth abuse, it’s important to understand these signs so you can recognize them and help the person in question get the proper treatment they need. Here are some of the most notable such signs and how to recognize them.
How Meth Impacts the Brain
Before we get into specific signs and symptoms of meth abuse, it’s important to understand how this drug impacts the brain. When someone uses meth, it triggers a rush of dopamine in their brain – this is a neurotransmitter that regulates pleasure and motivation.
As you can imagine, this excessive dopamine release leads to an intense high for the user. However, when repeated over time, this excess dopamine can damage the brain’s dopamine receptors, causing them to become less responsive to normal stimuli – this leads to a tolerance for meth and other drugs.
Physical Signs of Meth Abuse
One of the most notable signs of meth abuse is a rapid deterioration in physical appearance. This is caused by several factors, such as poor hygiene and neglecting proper nutrition and sleep. Meth also decreases appetite, leading to significant weight loss and a generally unhealthy appearance.
Other physical signs of meth abuse may include twitching, dilated pupils, and skin picking or sores due to the sensation of bugs crawling under the skin – a common side effect known as “meth mites.” Some also deal with what’s known as “meth mouth,” where they experience extreme tooth decay and gum disease due to dry mouth, teeth grinding, and poor oral hygiene.
Disinterest in Other Life Elements
One possible sign of meth addiction that’s similar to other types of substance abuse is a shift in priorities. A person who was once interested in hobbies, relationships, and responsibilities may suddenly lose interest as their primary focus turns to obtaining and using meth.
For instance, someone who once excelled at work or school may begin to neglect their responsibilities, leading to poor performance and potentially even job loss. Similarly, relationships with friends and family members may suffer as the person becomes more isolated and secretive about their drug use.
Paranoia and Other Psychological Side Effects
In addition to physical changes, meth abuse can also lead to significant psychological side effects. Paranoia is a common symptom, leading to extreme suspicion and fear of those around them. This can also manifest in the form of hallucinations or delusions.
Other psychological signs may include mood swings, irritability, and aggression. People who are addicted to meth may also experience difficulty sleeping, resulting in insomnia and fatigue.
Changes in Mood
Meth addiction can also cause erratic or unpredictable mood swings. The intense high users experience causes an equally intense low when the drug wears off, often leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and even aggression.
Unpredictability is another common side effect, as the user may seem to be in a good mood one moment and then lash out violently the next. This can make it difficult for friends and family members to know how to interact with the person, leading to strained relationships.
Aggression or Violence
In some cases, particularly when associated with withdrawal or extreme paranoia, meth addiction can lead to violent or aggressive behavior. This can present itself in various forms, such as physical altercations with others or reckless and dangerous behavior.
In these cases, it’s important for friends and family members to seek professional help and avoid putting themselves in harm’s way.
Whether you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, it’s important to recognize the signs and seek help as soon as possible. At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we offer personalized treatment plans to address each individual’s unique needs, including therapy, support groups, and holistic approaches. Don’t wait to get the help you need – reach out today and start your journey towards recovery, whether you’re in Boise, Pocatello or any nearby part of Utah.
