People across the country and here in New Hampshire use methamphetamine every day. Unfortunately, because meth is relatively inexpensive and easy to get, it’s increasingly popular. Like other stimulant drugs, meth is highly addictive, dangerous, and often deadly. Some people develop an addiction after one use. Others may overdose the first time they snort, smoke, or inject meth. Quitting meth cold turkey is never a good idea. A methamphetamine detox program is the safest, most effective way to stop using meth, avoid relapse, and safely recover.
It is never a good idea to quit meth cold turkey. If you or someone you love is struggling with methamphetamine abuse and addiction, our team can help. Our meth detox center in New Hampshire gives clients an intimate jump-start for long-term sobriety. Learn more about family-focused methamphetamine detox at Liberty Health Services today by calling us at 855.959.4521 to speak with our staff.
Meth Addiction and Withdrawal
Meth is a stimulant commonly made in home labs from chemicals like antifreeze. In its more concentrated, crystallized form, methamphetamine powder is called “crystal meth.” Both varieties of meth give people a fast and powerful high by flooding the brain with dopamine. This speeds up the brain and body’s processing, elevating breathing, heart rate, metabolism, and other functions. The brain makes dopamine every day to give us feelings like joy, pleasure, and mental focus. Dopamine also causes a “dopamine reward effect.” The more excess dopamine someone receives, the more dopamine they will want. This is a natural response to dopamine. For those with mood disorders, dopamine reward may be especially strong. Essentially, the rush of dopamine makes meth highly addictive.
Signs of meth addiction include:
- Paranoia
- Drug cravings
- Confusion
- Carb cravings
- Difficulty staying awake
- Anxiety
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep
- Fatigue
- Withdrawal when unable to use meth
Withdrawal is a major indicator of meth addiction. Withdrawal isn’t the “come-down” effect someone experiences when a drug leaves their system. Come-down happens about 12 hours after someone smokes, injects, or ingests meth as the body re-regulates. Withdrawal occurs when the brain has stopped making its dopamine and relies on meth for chemical processes. During this stage, the brain thinks it cannot survive without more meth.
Symptoms of meth withdrawal include:
- Fever
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Excessive sweating
- Moodswings
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tremors
- Trouble sleeping
- Dehydration
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
For those who use meth to self-soothe mental health or unresolved trauma, withdrawal can worsen mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Professional treatment will address both the meth addiction and any underlying co-occurring mental health disorders and treat both at the same time.
Can You Quit Meth Cold Turkey?
It is not a good idea to attempt to quit meth cold turkey. While some people may have the home environment and support to quit meth cold turkey, it can be dangerous. During withdrawal, willpower is not enough to stop someone from using more meth or other drugs. Someone can become a danger to themselves or others during withdrawal. Quitting cold turkey can lead to relapse, overdose, and other drug use. While withdrawal may last a week or two for many people, some develop post-acute withdrawal syndrome, also known as PAWS. Post-acute withdrawal can cause symptoms to persist and return for months or years, making it difficult to stay sober without help.
The Benefits of Professional Meth Addiction Treatment
Meth addiction treatment programs are tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient. This means that a patient’s underlying issues and symptoms can be addressed in a way that works best for them. Professional treatment programs typically include counseling sessions, 12-step meetings, medication management, and other evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Getting professional meth addiction treatment can provide a variety of benefits to those struggling with the disorder, including:
- Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms – Professional treatment plans can help manage cravings and reduce uncomfortable physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
- Improved mental health – Counseling sessions and other therapeutic interventions provide an opportunity for individuals to work through underlying issues and make better choices for their mental health.
- Increased self-confidence – Participating in a comprehensive treatment program can help individuals develop skills to cope with stress and anxiety, as well as build a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence.
- Reduced risk of relapse – Professional treatment programs provide an environment where the individual can build a strong foundation for their recovery and learn how to avoid triggers that lead to relapse.
- Strengthened support network – Professional treatment programs provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with others in recovery, which can provide invaluable social support throughout the process.
Getting professional meth addiction treatment is essential for long-term success in recovery. Treatment programs provide individuals with the tools and resources to achieve their recovery goals, allowing them to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. With the proper support from treatment professionals, those who struggle with meth addiction can begin the journey toward lasting sobriety.
Begin Methamphetamine Detox in New Hampshire Today
If you’re wondering how to quit meth cold turkey, the answer is don’t. Medical detox and addiction therapy are the best way to mitigate withdrawal and understand addiction triggers. Methamphetamine detox can be impossible without help and often leads to overdose. People who overdose on meth become incapacitated and cannot seek medical attention. Overdose is the leading cause of meth-related deaths. If you or someone you love is curious about the benefits of medication-assisted detox, our team can help.
Liberty Health Services specializes in family-friendly, intimate detox in beautiful New Hampshire. Our boutique clinic houses 24 clients at a time, providing safe, inclusive medically-assisted detox for various drugs and alcohol, including meth. Focusing on family, our clinic can help you and your loved ones reconnect and heal together. Call us now at 855.959.4521 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about our detox treatment programs and reserve your spot.
