Every addictive substance has unique characteristics that can make recognizing an addiction challenging. Recognizing an addiction via visual and behavioral cues can be vital to helping your loved one get the help they need in a timely fashion. Crystal meth abuse, in particular, can have immediate, devastating consequences on a person’s physical and mental health. If you begin to recognize signs of meth addiction in someone you love, don’t hesitate to seek meth addiction treatment on their behalf. Unfortunately, many people suffering from this addiction don’t realize they need help until it’s too late.
At Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, we understand the concern and pain that family members face when they begin to notice the signs of crystal meth addiction in a loved one. We can ease your fears by taking on the burden of treatment and care. Our evidence-based, holistic therapies are customized for each individual’s unique circumstances and needs. Contact us at 877.296.7477 to get your loved ones the help they need and yourself the peace of mind they deserve.
Recognizing the Signs of Crystal Meth Abuse
For many, it can be devastating to realize that a loved one may be suffering from an addiction. Unfortunately, some people shy away from approaching their loved ones out of fear or an abundance of caution when they believe that drug use is causing a problem in living. Unfortunately, this approach can lead to devastating and even fatal consequences as the addiction further spirals.
To prevent a loved one’s addiction from progressing past the point of return, seek help if you notice the following signs:
- Irritability
- Significant mood swings
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Profoundly increased sex drive
- Rotten or rotting teeth, also known as “meth mouth”
- Acne or other skin rashes
- Sores or lesions on the skin
- Compulsive picking and scratching at the skin
- Droopy facial skin
- Drastic weight loss, inexplicable frailty
- Convulsions
- Significant increase in body temperature
- Erratic and energized behavior followed by intense lows
- Psychosis (including hallucinations)
It’s also worth noting that a significant increase in a person’s stamina, adrenaline, and libido combined with the impulsivity of addiction can easily lead to the contraction of serious sexually transmitted diseases.
Don’t wait to find evidence of drugs or paraphernalia. If you notice any combination of these signs in a loved one, it’s time to seek help.
Understanding the Effects of a Meth Addiction
Beyond the harmful physical and psychological consequences, meth addiction is especially dangerous because of how difficult the drug is to quit once a person is hooked. Once someone becomes dependent on meth, the brain loses its capacity to produce adequate dopamine levels on its own. This leads to compulsive seeking and neurological dependence on dopamine-producing drugs to enjoy positive feelings.
Similarly, if a person tries to quit meth alone, they will struggle with extreme lows, suicidal thoughts, overwhelming fatigue, depression, anxiety, and intense cravings. However, with the support of a professional in a medical detox and treatment program, it is possible to break the cycle of dependence and rebalance the brain’s chemistry so that it is no longer dependent on dopamine-producing chemicals.
Break Free from Crystal Meth Addiction with Oceanfront Recovery
At Oceanfront Recovery, we have extensive experience helping people break free from the destructive cycle of methamphetamine dependence and reclaim their lives. Our individualized, evidence-based treatment plans maximize the best technology and techniques available. In addition to breaking the cycle of chemical dependency, we help people establish healthy routines, pleasures, and a strong network of sober community support.
Contact Oceanfront Recovery by filling out our online form or calling us at 877.296.7477 to get your loved ones the help they need so your family can move on to a healthier, happier future.
