With loads of harmful side effects, an extremely high potency, and an incredibly addictive nature, methamphetamine(meth) is one of the most dangerous drugs on the planet. Those that use this drug for the first time usually don’t turn back, ever. But, it is possible for those that develop an addiction to meth to get help through treatment and live a successful life in recovery. Families should be able to recognize meth addict behavior in their loved ones so they can help to seek help through treatment.
Keeping an Eye Out for Meth Equipment
A sure sign that a loved one is using meth is the evidence of physical meth or the tools used in administering the drug. There are different kinds and methods of meth use, so there are a few different tools and materials to keep an eye out for. A few examples of meth use equipment may include:
- Needles
- Syringes
- Aluminum Foil
- Soda Cans with Hole
- Glass Pipe
- Bags with White or Brown Residue
Keeping an Eye Out for Meth Cooking Equipment
Most meth purchased on the street was made inside someone’s home. If a family member or loved one is using meth, there’s a high chance they are developing it themselves. It is developed with the use of average, everyday household items including cold medicine, plastic bottles, plastic packaging, battery acid, and plumbing cleaners. Since the process of making meth is highly combustible, there may be evidence of an explosion or fire.
Keeping an Eye Out for Meth Addict Behavior
Along with the physical evidence, keep an eye out for any changed behavior. Meth can keep a user up for days during a binge, and keep a user asleep for days afterward. Other cues to meth addict behavior are unrealistic thoughts, hallucinations, visions, psychosis, pacing, paranoia, and repeated motions. Additionally, because the drug causes judgment to be impaired, sexually behavior rises for users. If your loved one is portraying any of this meth addict behavior, they may be using.
Keep an Eye Out for Physical Symptoms of Meth Use
Behaviors aren’t the only thing that changes when an individual abuses meth. A symptom of long-term meth use is physical damage including tooth decay, skin sores, muscle spasms, malnutrition, and track marks. Due to malnutrition and extended use, some users may experience loss of hair, pale skin tone, and permanently bloodshot eyes. Undoubtedly, the physical symptoms of meth use are the most recognizable and terrifying, but there are individuals who utilize the drug without the presence of physical symptoms.
Keep an Eye Out for Withdrawal Symptoms
If an individual is regularly using meth, when they try to stop, they will experience severe withdrawal symptoms. This may be a clue to an addiction when the individual hasn’t been able to score any drugs or is attempting to detox alone. Although the withdrawal is not as threatening as other drugs, it is still uncomfortable. Symptoms of a meth withdrawal will include exhaustion, cold sweats, anxiety, cravings, suicidal thoughts, and nausea. An individual that is attempting to detox from meth should experience withdrawal symptoms in a medical detox facility so that they are overlooked by a medical professional during the process. This enhances the comfort of the patient and ensures their safety.
Helping your Addicted Loved One through Treatment
First and foremost, if you think that a loved one is using meth, you should first research the drug and addiction so that you can better understand what your loved one needs. Next, you must plan an intervention to provide your loved one with options as to battle their addiction in a supportive environment. During this intervention, make sure that you offer support and compassion instead of judgment. Lastly, offer your support throughout the entire treatment process. The more support a recovering addict has throughout recovery, the better their chances are of living a sober life. Do you have a loved one that you think is displaying meth addict behavior? Give us a call today to have a confidential conversation with an addiction specialist about your options at 888-616-7177.
Dr. Joseph Ranieri D.O. earned his BS in Pharmacy at Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1981 and His Doctorate Degree in Osteopathic Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1991. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Diplomate of the American Board of Preventive Medicine Addiction Certification. Dr. Ranieri has lectured extensively to physicians, nurses, counselors and laypeople about the Disease of Addiction throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 2012.
