The opioid crisis may be getting all of the headlines these days, but meth addiction is a growing problem.
In 2012, nearly 18,000 pounds of the stimulant were seized by law enforcement agents. By 2017, that number had more than tripled. And these days, much of the meth is coming from Mexico, meaning that it’s often more potent.
So while people may be concerned about their loved ones becoming a victim of painkillers or heroin abuse, meth is also a drug that should be on everyone’s radar.
Signs of Meth Addiction
If you’re concerned that your loved one is using meth, there are two different kinds of things to be on the lookout for: how someone acts when they’re on meth and longer-term meth addiction signs.
Signs of Being Under the Influence
• Increased physical activity, including fidgety behavior
• Heavy sweating
• Dilated pupils
• Decreased appetite
• Sleeplessness
• Euphoria
• Irritability and paranoia
• Unpredictable behavior
• Tremors
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dry mouth and bad breath
• Performing repetitive tasks over and over
Long-term Meth Addiction Signs
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Fatigue
• A persistently elevated heart rate
• Weight loss
• Dry, itchy skin
• Picking at skin/skin lesions
• Lack of personal hygiene
• Discolored, rotten or missing teeth
• Hair loss
The reality is that meth is not an addiction that most people can beat on their own—and it can quickly take a toll on a person’s mental and physical health. That’s why it’s so important to start treatment as soon as possible.
Meth Rehab at The Raleigh House
At The Raleigh House, we believe that everyone deserves to live a drug-free life—and that it is possible to do so. We also believe that being sober isn’t enough. That’s why every person who walks through our doors is assigned their own master’s level therapist who will work with them to come up with a plan for rehab—and also for when rehab is over. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about the meth addiction treatment program at The Raleigh House.