Category: Methamphetamine Rehab

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Meth and Alcohol

Meth and Alcohol

Falling Into Meth and Alcohol Addiction

When dealing with an addiction to multiple drugs, recovery can be an even bigger hurdle. Luckily, there are a lot of people who have been able to find peace and healing as a result of substance abuse. I will outline how it worked for me, and perhaps you will find the strength to make it work for you.

I arrived at Best Rehabs In Arizona recovery center following several years of meth and alcohol addiction. My alcohol abuse began in my teenage years and led me to try a bunch of different drugs. I began mixing meth with alcohol after I graduated high school and these two substances quickly overtook my life. I tried a lot of other drugs during my substance abuse, but nothing overtook me like meth and alcohol.

I wasn’t ready to enter the real world after school, and in order to cope I turned to meth and alcohol. My binge drinking in high school was originally only limited to parties and social gatherings. Soon enough, I was mixing meth into my alcohol abuse and couldn’t leave my house without one or the other, usually both in combination.

Stay reading if you want to hear more about my story, how bad things got with meth and alcohol, and how I eventually got help with the support of Best Rehabs In Arizona!

Mixing Alcohol And Other Drugs

My addiction to meth and alcohol led me to a lot of awful choices and years of regret. I try not to dwell on my past failures now that I am sober, but it’s hard to not look back on those days and wonder how I got to that point. A lot of people who engage in drug abuse start with alcohol because it is so readily available and socially acceptable.

When you start drinking alcohol, you aren’t thinking of where it can lead you. I remember watching videos about alcohol dependence in health class in middle school. All the warning signs of alcohol use were right there, but I didn’t take any of them seriously. When I had my first drink, I was at a party and having a great time. My alcohol intoxication only amplified my good time. My young brain became accustomed to needing it.

So what was there to be afraid of? My alcohol abuse slowly got worse and worse, but I still had a good time. Slowly but surely, the signs of my alcohol use disorder began to pop up. When I didn’t have alcohol, it made me irritable. I needed a drink in social situations. I couldn’t be without it if I had to interact with other people. Eventually, I felt that I needed more than just booze. This is where meth abuse came into the picture.

Mixing Meth And Alcohol: When It All Goes Downhill Fast

Mixing Meth And Alcohol

I had no idea what meth was when I first tried it. I was drunk the first time I used meth and was looking for something else to lift up my buzz. Marijuana didn’t do a whole lot for me. It usually just made me tired. I learned later on that I was much more interested in upper like methamphetamine to keep the party going.

Methamphetamine rapidly increases the brain’s output of dopamine, so in combination with alcohol, I felt like I was on top of the world. When I mixed meth and alcohol, it gave me a sense of freedom and power. This was all internal. I can only imagine what I looked like from the outside. After several years of mixing meth and alcohol, I didn’t exactly resemble someone with a lot of power or control over any situation.

Only later did I learn from the staff about how the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes the mix of alcohol and meth as being particularly dangerous, causing psychosis for many users.

Combining alcohol and meth lulled me into a mental fog and allowed me to avoid the issues that I was avoiding. I was bullied a lot growing up, and didn’t really know how to process the pain that it caused. We live in a society where people don’t feel very open to discussing their mental and emotional issues. My drug and alcohol dependence helped me avoid the reality of my situation.

How Do You Make Yourself Want Help?

I didn’t want to get help. My self-esteem was non-existent. I didn’t feel like I had it in me to deal with my problems. The effects of alcohol and meth created a void in me, where all that mattered was both methamphetamine abuse and alcohol-related sedation. This sedated feeling helped me avoid the rest of the world and all reality in general.

Because alcohol is such a commonly abused substance, there is always an increased risk of abuse. This abuse almost always leads to risky behaviors, and the desire to try other drugs as well. Alcohol’s effects lull you into a deceiving form of comfort. The numbness that alcohol makes you feel can easily lead you into a negative headspace and change the way that the brain processes information.

The idea of sobriety is distant and seemingly unattainable to those who are in the middle of alcohol addiction. It’s very easy for people of all personality types to fall into excessive drinking. There is always the risk of increased alcohol intake. As your tolerance builds, you need more alcohol to feel the way you want to feel. The cycle is very similar with other drugs such as methamphetamine.

When Meth and Alcohol Abuse No Longer Cures The Pain

Years of mixing alcohol and meth ruined my brain chemistry and my body. I had no positive people in my life who could pull me aside and tell me that I needed help. Would I have listened to them anyway? Probably not. My addiction to both alcohol and meth consumed every part of my life, and I only associated with people who would enable that.

Living in a constant state of alcohol toxicity and meth-induced psychosis is a unique situation. You ride the highs as long as you can, but once the alcohol and meth wear off, you find yourself in a pit of utter despair. Many times I contemplated suicide. Methamphetamine and alcohol use had sapped my brain of dopamine and left me in a hollow rut.

The effects of alcohol slowly began to go away the longer I drank. I needed more and more alcohol to get to where I needed to be. This was the same with meth. After ending up in the hospital with alcohol poisoning, I knew that I needed a change. But where to even start? Having two addictions to overcome seemed absolutely impossible until I checked in at Best Rehabs In Arizona.

What are the Health Risks Associated With Meth and Alcohol?

Health Risks Associated With Meth and Alcohol

After years of substance abuse, my body was in bad shape. My meth and alcohol use had caused cardiovascular disease, tooth decay, insomnia, and an overall sense of dread on a daily basis. I had wounded my brain and body so much, but I didn’t stop to think about my safety or my well-being.

Long-term meth and alcohol abuse will lead you to avoid focusing on your health in pretty much every aspect. I lived in a daily cycle of impaired judgment and anxiety. It was intensely distressing and scary to think of the reality of where I was at. That’s why people continue to abuse drugs for so long. Eventually, you forgot about everything but the drug.

Meth users like myself will usually deal with hallucinations and paralyzing anxiety. A drug like crystal meth will keep you awake for days on end. Because of this, you begin dreaming while you are awake. You lose touch with reality, and you think everybody is out to get you. You think people are following you, trying to kill you. Is this any way to live? When you are deep into an alcohol and Tina addiction, you don’t know any other way.

Help Is Always There When You Need It

When I began my recovery journey, my drug abuse was at an all-time high. Mixing meth and alcohol, as well as any other substances I could get my hands on had left me a fragile being. My substance abuse had tricked me into thinking I couldn’t get better, but I knew of people who had done well in addiction treatment, so I was willing to give it a try.

There are a lot more treatment options out there than one would expect when they first enter recovery. There are dual-diagnosis treatment programs that focus on individuals who have multiple addictions, as well as mental health problems. It was a huge relief to know that I could use the same tools to deal with my crystal meth addiction as well as my alcoholism. I just had to get through the withdrawal symptoms first before I could get to work.

My withdrawal was uncomfortable, but the good people at Best Rehabs In Arizona made it as easy as possible for me to come out on the other side. I was dealing with my alcohol withdrawal and meth withdrawal at the same time, which caused a great deal of physical and emotional pain.

The stimulating effects of these drugs were no longer there to comfort me. I had to get through it without them, and this planted the seed in my brain that I didn’t need these drugs to live my life. The intense discomfort was tough, but I knew I was doing the right thing. The negative effects of the withdrawal were worth it.

Is Lasting Recovery From Meth and Alcohol Possible?

Recovery From Meth and Alcohol Possible

When you enter the world of recovery, you have a lot of work to do. I knew that a treatment provider alone wasn’t going to keep me sober. It was going to take a lot of therapy and group counseling, which I embraced immediately. There are a lot of people in recovery who are still struggling on a daily basis. In order to seek the peace of mind needed to stay clean, you must actively engage in recovery and make it a top priority in your life.

It’s encouraging to me to talk to others in recovery, and learn about the tips and tricks they use in order to stay on the right path. I know there is always a risk of relapse, but if I stay one step ahead and keep my eyes on the prize, I can navigate through recovery in a positive way.

I am doing a lot of my own addiction research and trying to learn as much as I can in order to help others and perhaps work in addiction treatment someday. I want to help others the way that I was helped. I know what methamphetamine users go through. I know what it’s like to be an alcoholic with no hope. I’ve got a lot of great people around me who inspire me to be the change in the world that I want to see.

Reaching Out for the Help with Drug Abuse and Relapse

You can go to multiple treatment centers, get sober, relapse, and get sober again. The only way to truly achieve lasting recovery is to practice it every day. You need to connect with others and be a positive force in the world. I can’t influence anyone to get clean, but I can help plant the seed.

I can give my own personal experience, which is that Best Rehabs In Arizona is a facility that has worked wonders for so many people. I can use my knowledge and experience with someone who was in the same situation I was in during my addiction. That’s what keeps me going.

If you want a little help in keeping going, why not reach out to them today and see what options they can give you and your family? It can make all the difference to know someone’s supporting you every step of the way in getting clean!

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Meth Eyes

What is Meth Eyes

The Startling Effects of Meth Abuse

When I arrived at Best Rehabs In Arizonas, my meth addiction was terrible. Substance abuse runs in my family, and my meth use was another unfortunate example of that. Methamphetamine abuse is one of the most difficult addictions to contend with, and for someone in my situation, it was only a matter of time before my body gave out.

Every day that I was feeding my meth addiction, I felt that my heart was going to explode. I felt like every person I walked past was saying something negatively about me, judging me. I was probably wrong in most of these instances, but with my physical appearance being what it was, I’m certain that I scared people with my presence.

The common signs of meth abuse are some of the most obvious of any drug addiction, and I had them all. Meth mouth, skin sores, dilated pupils, red eyes, you name it. My meth eyes were what I think scared people the most. When I looked people in the eyes, I could feel their stomachs turn.

Keep reading if you are struggling with meth, to find out about getting past the damage done and into healing with the help of Best Rehabs In Arizona!

Seeing The World Through Meth Eyes

There are plenty of negative health effects from methamphetamine drug use, but the meth eyes are the most startling. I viewed the world through blurred vision, bloodshot eyes, and psychosis. My eye movements were rapid and startling. I felt like a squirrel trying not to get run over by a car.

The eyes are one of the most precious tools in our bodies. We use them not only to see but to communicate. There is a connection there when you look at someone in the eyes. When you stare into a pair of meth eyes, you are immediately filled with a sense that something is wrong.

The ocular effects in meth users can be easy to spot even if you have limited knowledge of meth addiction. The rapid eye movement, the pale skin, the sores, all of these make for a morbid physical appearance. My vision impairment was off the charts when I was using meth heavily. The rapid eye movement made me feel like I could never have one peaceful moment.

Your Meth Addiction Only Has You Fooled

Meth Addiction

Despite how obvious my condition was, I still felt like I was fooling everyone. That’s one of the biggest tricks that drug addiction plays on addicts. You think you can fool everyone. At first, you can, but the cracks begin to appear quickly and there isn’t much you can do to hide it after a while.

As I looked at the world through meth eyes and blurred vision, I looked for everyone and everything to blame but myself. It’s because of all the other external forces in my life that got me to this point. It’s hard to accept blame, even harder if you’ve been in the thick of methamphetamine addiction.

This is a common symptom of drug addiction. This is all across the drug spectrum. Whether you have an issue with prescription drugs, alcohol, or an illicit drug like meth. Drug abuse is related all across the board.

The Power Of Methamphetamine Drug Use

I never imagined I would end up in the situation that I did. As I mentioned above, drug addiction is something that has always existed in my family. I saw a lot of family members abuse alcohol and drugs.

It freaked me out when I was young, and I promised myself and the few sober family members that I had that that would not be me. Drugs would not enter my life at all. When you’re on the outside looking in, it can be easy to say that you won’t do the same.

Just saying it doesn’t make it possible. Even as you go through addiction treatment, the drug can still talk through you. The adverse effects that methamphetamine use has on your mind can be even more glaring once you stop using the drug.

Beyond the eye damage and the other side effects, the mental effects are extremely difficult to navigate. Meth use takes over your mind to a point that is terrifying. I look back on some of my decision-making and can’t believe that I was capable of some of the things that I did.

The All Consuming Effects Of Meth

The effects of meth can turn you into a person you won’t recognize. I put myself in a lot of life-threatening situations. I associated with some very questionable individuals and pushed away all of the positive people in my life. When my meth use was at its peak, I was sleeping on the streets and committing petty crimes to feed my habit. ‘

I never conceived that my meth use would have me sneaking into businesses and stealing merchandise. As I gave myself over more and more to the methamphetamine drug, I rationalized every horrible decision that I made. I made myself not care about the people that I was affecting.

The long-term effects of meth have followed me even well into my sobriety. I still get the urge to use it, and I still see myself falling back into my old crowd. I feel guilty sometimes that I got out of it while so many others didn’t. This is a common sign in recovery. It’s a form of survivor’s guilt that I continue to struggle with, but through treatment, I’ve learned to accept it and manage it.

The Lies Of Drug Abuse

Drug Abuse

When I entered my teen years, I engaged in alcohol abuse, which slowly progressed into cocaine addiction. I realized that uppers were my thing. It wasn’t long after I first got into cocaine that I began using crystal meth. This is before I graduated high school. My father was sober at this point and pressured me into addiction treatment.

I couldn’t really say no, because I was still living under his roof. I did it because I was forced into it, which typically never works out. To get over substance abuse, you have to want it for yourself. Meth use isn’t going to fix itself.

I remember my father once asking me about my rapid eye movements, and why I couldn’t sit still without obsessively shifting around. I felt attacked, and would usually blow up at him ending the conversation.

I didn’t want it. I wanted the drug. My methamphetamine addiction was in its infancy. Of all the illicit drugs that I and my peers were into, crystal methamphetamine was to me the greatest substance in the world. Something I needed to get through my day. When I didn’t have it, it was a living hell. No one tries to be a crystal meth addict.

Methamphetamine Myths

Substance use disorder makes you believe all of the lies that the drug is telling you. It doesn’t matter what drug you are addicted to. Each of them has different effects and different ways that they change the brain, but overall, substance abuse in general changes your brain for the worse. Every time someone tried to help me or talk sense into me, I felt attacked and offended.

I made up excuses. I lied. I projected and tried to turn it back on them. There was no talking any sense into me. Even as my symptoms presented themselves in such an obvious fashion, I still couldn’t admit I had a problem.

The drugs were doing the talking, not me. It wasn’t until I was in treatment at Best Rehabs In Arizona that I could speak for myself. Meth abuse isn’t much different than alcohol abuse or any other type of substance abuse.

The Effects Of Meth On Everyday Life

Because meth is a stimulant, it’s much different than any central nervous system depressant. You don’t sleep on meth. I’ve gone days without sleeping, and it feels like you are literally in a nightmare.

There isn’t any other highly addictive drug that I feel can put you into that state of psychosis. If you are dealing with a mental illness of any kind, it can shake things up. Not only that, the withdrawal symptoms can greatly increase your psychosis. Meth is the one drug that made me feel like I had lost my mind.

Methamphetamine Abuse And Your Body

Methamphetamine Abuse

Meth addiction creates some very complex problems in your brain. The effects of meth on your mind are brutal and hard to describe unless you’ve been through it. First, let’s get into the physical symptoms.

Beyond meth eyes, meth mouth is a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect. Meth users grind their teeth, and the chemicals from the drug do a lot of damage to your gums if consumed orally.

There is an increased risk of high blood pressure, vision impairment, vision loss, changes in body temperature, and retinal vascular occlusive disease. I developed a retinal vascular occlusive disease, which affected my vision. This occurs when there is a blood clot in the veins around your eyes.

Methamphetamine use increases your risk of poor blood flow and high heart rate. All of this combined throws your body into a tailspin. What negative effects does your body try to fight first? The central nervous system can only handle so much of the effects of meth.

Meth and Body Temperature

The way methamphetamine made my body temperature rise and fall was shocking. Beyond the vision impairment, skin sores, and rapid eye movement, I always felt like I was being put in and out of an oven. Meth interrupts blood flow and

Your physical health and mental health are very closely related. One doesn’t work all that well without the other. Health problems greatly affect your mood and general disposition. When you’re using crystal meth or any other drug, you’re sapping your brain of dopamine. The dopamine receptors in your brain greatly affect your emotions.

Drug abuse puts these receptors into overdrive until they can no longer produce any more dopamine. When your brain is emptied of dopamine, it can create some real havoc. The support groups that I was a part of in my initial recovery were so great at teaching me about the way methamphetamine made me feel.

Even long after I stopped using the drug, I still felt the effects. This is one of the common symptoms of those in recovery. Just because you got clean, doesn’t mean you’re not going to desire that feeling again.

Addiction Treatment and Meth Use

Both prescription and illegal drug abuse require a lot of support. Getting clean is a decision you make on your own, but you need a lot of help along the way. The support groups I have joined have given me a great sense of purpose and responsibility.

Addiction Treatment

I try and stay clean not just for myself, but so I can help someone else see that it is possible. I no longer see the world through meth eyes. Crystal methamphetamine turned me into a person that I don’t want to become again, but I know it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

I may not be engaging in meth use now, but I can’t predict the future. I try to live moment by moment and help others see it that way too. Ultimately though, I’m only in control of my own life. I work on myself first before anyone else.

Long Term Effects After Treatment

The effects of meth are still with me, but I try to use them as a tool to help others. I may have gotten over my physical effects, but there are long-term effects that last well into recovery. The retinal vein occlusion is gone, but the effects linger. Meth seems like it will always be a part of my life, whether I still use it or not.

When I was going through my initial treatment at Best Rehabs In Arizona, I knew I had made the right decision even if the withdrawal symptoms were tearing me apart inside. I had tried treatment many times over the years, but never truly wanted it for myself.

A Journey of Recovery from Methamphetamine

Being in treatment has given me a new lease on life, and I make sure every day that I’m doing the best I can to not go back to methamphetamine. The long-term effects of meth may be there, but I know that it’s something I can handle if I put in the work.

If you are struggling with meth, or have a loved one that is, reach out to Best Rehabs In Arizona and ask about your options. I know it may seem scary, but I was pretty far gone, and they helped me find a strength and hope I thought were long gone. I bet they can help you find them too, all it takes is a phone call to get the ball rolling and claim your own recovery!

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Can You Snort Meth?

Snort Meth

Get Answers and Treatment Options for Meth Abuse

Methamphetamine or meth is readily available in the United States. However, the highest availability is in the Midwestern and Western regions of the country. This is where many people have seen a loved one struggling and wondered: can you snort meth?

Data from the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission reports that the task force seized over 4,500 pounds of illicit meth in 2019, a sharp increase from the previous year. This significant increase in people abusing meth comes despite various federal and state-level actions aimed at restricting the production and distribution of this highly addictive substance.

Meth has devastating effects on the lives of users and their loved ones. Understanding the reason for the continued high prevalence of the drug in the Grand Canyon State is crucial when determining what to do to combat its harmful impact on residents.

There is a wide range of treatment options for meth abuse. Methamphetamine addiction treatment often involves detox, therapy, counseling, and aftercare services from a rehab center.

If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction, our addiction treatment providers can help you get your life back on track.

Keep reading to find out more about effective programs for recovery from meth, and how Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery can help you get your recovery started today!

What Is Meth?

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine or meth is a highly potent and addictive psychostimulant that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It is a white, odorless, crystalline drug that is odorless and bitter.

Developed from amphetamine in the early 20th century, meth was sold by pharmaceutical firms as a nasal decongestant and respiratory stimulant. Some medical disorders that doctors may prescribe amphetamine for include obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methamphetamine is commonly abused because of the intense high it delivers. However, meth abuse negatively affects your health and can be fatal. The armed services widely used this drug during World War II to boost morale, alertness, and endurance.

Time revealed that methamphetamine was a highly addictive drug. So, the Drug Enforcement Administration in the United States classified the drug as a Schedule II controlled substance because of its high potential for abuse.

Methamphetamine is banned unless a doctor prescribes it for some specific medical conditions. It is highly addictive and easy to manufacture, making it a persistent problem in the drug market.

Consumption for an extended period has disastrous impacts on the user and has negatively impacted whole communities as well.

How do People Use Meth?

Methamphetamine can be manufactured in several forms. This drug can be used in many ways, including smoking, sniffing, injecting, or orally ingesting pills. Injecting meth poses a serious risk of contracting hepatitis and other blood-borne diseases.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the preferred route of meth use varies widely by geographical location. However, a significant percentage of people snort meth. The short-term and long-term effects of meth differ depending on the mode of administration, but all are harmful.

Meth misuse usually follows the “binge and crash pattern,” in which the user attempts to sustain their high by taking many hits in rapid succession. Some users will “run” or engage in a sort of binge, in which they take meth continuously for many days without refueling their bodies with food or sleep.

Can You Snort Meth? Answers to Meth Questions

Snorting Meth

Meth is often produced in illegal labs at home using everyday ingredients like:

  • Pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, which is the main ingredient in meth and found in common cold medications
  • Drain cleaner
  • Battery acid
  • Acetone
  • Iodine
  • Ether
  • Lithium
  • Paint thinner

 

This drug is produced in varying forms, including a solid rock-like formulation known as crystal meth, a liquid, or a powder usually snorted.

Although snorting meth may produce a less intense effect or a lesser high than other routes of administration, such as an intravenous (IV) injection, people who snort meth can experience a wide range of adverse effects.

What are the Dangers of Snorting Meth?

Dangers of snorting meth include:

  • Sinus damage
  • Nosebleeds
  • Damage to nasal tissues
  • Nose lining damage
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Increased body temperatures
  • Risk of meth addiction and physical dependence

The Short-Term Effects of Snorting Meth

The effects of methamphetamine abuse are temporary and only present during use. Meth and other stimulant drugs influence the central nervous system, leading to elevated heart and respiration rates, body temperature, and blood pressure.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), methamphetamine’s short-term effects can last anywhere from eight to twenty-four hours, or even longer in those who repeatedly take the drug on binges.

Snorting meth may also have the following short-term effects:

  • Intense rush of euphoria
  • Heightening of consciousness, vigor, and activity
  • Increased energy
  • Dry mouth
  • Dilated pupils
  • Intense perspiration
  • Decreased appetite
  • Sleeplessness
  • Nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting
  • Increased body temperature
  • Preoccupation with meaningless routines
  • Muscle tension in the jaw
  • Irregular and even potentially harmful conduct
  • Paranoia
  • Tremors
  • Irritability

 

Other short-term effects of methamphetamine use include seizures and abrupt death because of the drug’s strength and impact on the body.

Long-Term Effects of Snorting Meth

Long-Term Effects of Snorting Meth

Snorting meth for an extended period can cause severe effects. People who abuse meth in binges may go for days without sleeping or eating, a condition known as tweaking.

Below are some of the long-term damage and effects of chronic use of meth:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Delusions
  • Memory problems
  • Mood swings
  • Self-harm thoughts
  • Risk of heart attack
  • Psychosis

 

Chronic meth use can also lead to skin sores. These sores are primarily caused by excessive scratching caused by a condition known as meth bugs. This condition makes users feel like they have bugs under their skin. Another long term effect of meth mouth.

What Is Meth Mouth?

If you’re addicted to meth or methamphetamine, you probably have meth mouth, which is a term for tooth decay and poor oral health. This condition is the result of acidic dental decay and drug-induced physical alterations that occur with meth use. It is often referred to as a “dentist’s worst nightmare.”

Meth mouth, along with other changes in facial features and skin damage from snorting or smoking meth, is one of the most noticeable physical changes that occurs when someone consumes meth.

Signs of Meth Mouth from Snorting and Smoking Meth

Meth mouth is characterized by severe tooth decay and gum disease. The teeth of chronic meth users are often rotting, crumbling, and blackened. Below are the common signs of meth mouth:

  • Black rotting teeth
  • Bad breath
  • Bruxism
  • Xerostomia
  • Cracked, loose, or missing teeth
  • Lockjaw
  • Gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis
  • Carious lesions

 

Contact us today for professional medical advice on how to stop snorting meth at our treatment center.

Detoxing from Methamphetamines with Support

Detoxing from Methamphetamines with Support

Medically supervised detox programs can assist a person in safely withdrawing from methamphetamine, so they can move on to a more permanent treatment program. However, there are no approved drugs for treating methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms like intense cravings.

A person undergoing medically supervised meth detox will have their vital signs constantly monitored to ensure they remain within safe ranges. Medical professionals can ensure that a person undergoing meth detox receives the fluids, adequate nutrition, and supplements needed to restore physical health. This is because many people going through meth detoxification become very dehydrated and may already be malnourished.

Treatment for Methamphetamine Addiction

Methamphetamine is so potent that it usually necessitates a comprehensive inpatient addiction treatment program for people to break free from addiction and stay clean. When someone receives inpatient care at our drug and alcohol rehab center, they can live at the facility while obtaining the best quality of medical care and treatment assistance available. This helps ease the withdrawal symptoms through supportive treatment

Those who don’t have a robust support system or don’t get intensive therapy for their addiction often relapse after abstaining from meth for some time. Although everyone’s experience with recovery is unique, studies have indicated that those who stay in treatment for at least 90 days have the best chance of achieving their long-term recovery goals, such as maintaining sobriety.

Some of the best and most comprehensive addiction treatment available can be found in inpatient programs at Best Rehabs In Arizona. Long-term sobriety from methamphetamine abuse is possible with the help of individualized substance abuse treatment programs that may incorporate a wide variety of therapies, counseling, medication, group participation, arts and recreation, and aftercare services.

Get Help for Meth Abuse at Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery

Drug abuse and addiction can be challenging to beat, especially with meth. However, there are various evidence-based methods for treating methamphetamine abuse and addiction, such as behavioral therapy. The professionals at Best Rehabs In Arizona can help determine the best treatment approach for your addiction or drug use.

Reach out now for a confidential discussion about options if you or a loved one are struggling with meth use!

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How Long to Rewire Brain from Addiction?

Reversing Damage from Drug Abuse

Addiction Treatment and Reversing Damage from Drug Abuse

Long-term use of drugs and alcohol is associated with a wide range of adverse brain-related health outcomes, including cognitive decline and mental health disorders. The sooner a person receives treatment for their drug addiction, the sooner their brain will mend and recover from the impacts of drug use.

Drugs have a devastating effect on the human brain chemistry and overall health. The brain adapts to receiving the drug after prolonged use, affecting the brain’s chemical processes. Luckily, a wide range of effective treatment methods can help you recover from the effects of drugs.

The recovery period from drug addiction varies widely from person to person, depending on factors such as how long they were abusing drugs and whether they have any preexisting medical conditions or mental health disorders.

Read on to find out how long it may take for rewire brain from Addiction and to learn more about the connection between drug use and brain health!

The Effects of Drugs on the Brain

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), addiction is a mental condition involving various neurological and psychological symptoms. Long-term treatment and recovery may be necessary due to the damaging effects of drugs on the brain.

The U.S. Surgeon General explains that the pleasure, stress, learning, decision-making, and self-control circuits in the brain are all negatively affected by drugs. Your brain’s basal ganglia is the brain’s reward system, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure and motivation. When you take drugs, this pathway activates, leading to euphoric feelings.

The extended amygdala is the brain regions that control stress responses. The National Institute on Drug Abuse claims that drug abuse causes these neural pathways to become more sensitive. This leads to stress responses like irritability, uneasiness, and anxiety.

Responsible for learning, decision-making, and self-control, the prefrontal cortex is the last section of the brain to mature and develop, usually in one’s twenties. Drugs’ effects on the prefrontal cortex may lead to compulsive behavior in people addicted to substances.

Different drugs have varying effects on the brain. Opioids like heroin, oxycodone, and Suboxone, for example, enhance the risk of overdose by altering fundamental physiological processes like heart rate and respiration. Inhalants can impair cognitive function, and cocaine can cause minor strokes in the brain, damaging brain nerves.

How Long Does It Take to Heal the Brain from Addiction?

Since drug use has varying effects on different individuals, brain recovery could take several weeks, months, or even years.

Factors that Influence the Time it Takes for the Brain Cells to Recover from Addiction

Rewire Brain from Addiction

It is essential to note the time it may take for the brain to recover depends on various factors, such as:

  • Type of substance abused
  • Length of time suffering from the addiction
  • Severity of addiction
  • Presence of co-occurring mental health issues

 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, a person in recovery from marijuana addiction should expect to feel anxious and irritable for one to two weeks. This timeframe is significantly shorter than the recovery time required for benzodiazepine addiction, which can cause similar symptoms plus agitation, poor memory, and poor focus for up to eight weeks or longer.

Some people take the entire rehab treatment program to achieve complete abstinence, while recovery takes longer for others.

Specific treatments and lifestyle changes may speed up brain healing. These include total abstinence, exercising regularly, and maintaining proper nutrition. Moving from high-stress or hostile environments to a supportive drug rehab center would be best.

Treatment Options for Brain Rewiring After Addiction

Addiction is a complex brain disease that affects an individual’s physical, emotional, relational, and mental states. Substance use disorders (SUDs) can also trigger co-occurring disorders.

There are various management options available after completing rehab. Depending on your specific requirements and preferences, you can complete one or more of these programs individually or in combination with each other. Once you complete detox and withdrawal symptoms have subsided, you can start rewiring the brain’s physical and chemical dependency on substances through rehabilitation.

The brain can self-repair some brain damage, according to NIDA. This happens through neuroplasticity, a process where the brain forms new neural connections in response to positive environmental changes.

Drug rehab centers often use a medical detox and behavioral therapies to help clients recover from the damaging effects of drug addiction. Treatment providers may also use medications to reduce and reverse the effects of addictive substances on brain health.

Below are some of the most common treatment options:

Medical Detox for Alcohol and Drugs

Medical Detox for Alcohol and Drugs

Medical detoxification is the initial phase of treatment for those struggling with substance abuse. Your medical provider will conduct an assessment through diagnostic tests or brain scans like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the severity of the addiction and brain structure.

Medication is used in detox to keep patients comfortable and limit the risk of health issues during drug or alcohol withdrawal. During detox at a detox center, medical practitioners and addiction specialists constantly monitor clients, ready to step in whenever necessary to make the detox process comfortable.

Some patients may be prescribed drugs and nutritional supplements that heal brain damage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Patients in recovery from alcoholism, for instance, may take vitamin B1 supplements to prevent memory loss, while those from opioid addiction may take methadone to correct biochemical brain irregularities.

Neurological damage caused by drugs can be treated with medicines like Deprenyl and Acetylcysteine.

Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART Recovery)

The SMART Recovery program is an alternative to the 12-step and other religiously-based approaches for addiction recovery. It centers on a group of people sharing similar experiences in overcoming addiction.

Drug and alcohol addiction is widespread because these substances’ euphoric feelings encourage users to keep abusing drugs. The primary goal of SMART recovery is to provide an alternative to drugs and alcohol for maintaining motivation.

To maintain their drive for sobriety, clients in this program are urged to discover external sources of happiness, like a fulfilling career, good health, or supportive connections with family and friends. The brain is rewired to seek happiness from within rather than from external sources like drugs. Learning to control cravings and avoid relapse is another critical goal of the program.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Many people struggling with mental health disorders or addiction turn to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The core tenet of CBT is the realization that one’s thoughts, emotions, and actions are interconnected.

Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to equip the patient with healthy coping mechanisms and counter-thoughts to the negative thought and emotion cycles. Despite CBT’s relatively straightforward theory, the process of retraining the brain to overcome addiction is lengthy.

Some people’s negative thought patterns are deeply ingrained habits that need to be chipped away at methodically with CBT techniques.

Issues Addressed in CBT Addiction Treatment

This helps in addressing the following aspects of a continuing addiction:

  • Triggers that reinforce an individual’s urge to continue using drugs and alcohol
  • Destructive or harmful thought patterns that lead to unwanted behaviors

Psychotherapy Based on Mindfulness

Psychotherapy Based on Mindfulness

Mindfulness therapy is an increasingly popular option for those struggling with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health issues like depression. Mindfulness is a philosophy that shares some similarities with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), with an added focus on being present with one’s thoughts.

When aware of their immediate environment, the person is taught to identify habitual, automatic ways of thinking and replace them with present-minded ones. This helps to divert attention away from the problematic thought processes while breaking them down.

Clients participating in a mindfulness-based therapy session are encouraged to:

  • Consider mental processes as temporary occurrences rather than fixed truths
  • Focus on the present to anchor themselves in reality
  • Think “in the present” to help them avoid patterns of rumination

12-Step Programs for Brain Rewiring

Many people assume that 12-Step and religious-based programs are ineffective because they lack a scientific foundation. But research shows that the 12-step activities used to combat addiction can rewire the brain.

Consistently attending 12-Step meetings has been shown to strengthen neural circuits involved in decision-making and desire regulation. The environment modifies how the brain perceives the addiction, making it less likely that a person attending these meetings will relapse.

Individuals are less likely to engage in addictive behaviors if they model their actions after those they frequently meet. People find the environment at 12-step meetings to be inspiring, and it helps them stay committed to their recovery.

Most rehab facilities offer these types of care and can tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. You can select a single option or a blend of multiple approaches to find the best fit for addiction recovery.

Get Professional Help for Substance Abuse and Addiction

While you can’t treat a substance use disorder by an act of will, you can gradually change your mind or rewire your brain and overcome this chronic condition. You will need personal determination to commit to addiction recovery through the help of medical professionals and evidence-based treatment options.

Call Best Rehabs In Arizona now for advice on the best treatment plan to help you beat your addiction and achieve long-term sobriety!

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Can You Overdose on Meth?

What are Methamphetamines

Meth is a substance that many people are familiar with. It has been used recreationally for a long time. It’s among the most affordable and accessible drugs on the market. But this accessibility has the unspoken side effect of making it easy to take as much as you want. Meth overdoses are shockingly uncommon, and they have spiked recently. Methamphetamine deaths due to overdose more than tripled between 2015 and 2019.

Read on to learn more about protecting yourself from meth overdose, and how to find effective forms of treatment that can help you put aside crystal for good!

What are Methamphetamines?

Methamphetamines, also known as crystal meth or “meth” for short, is a powerful stimulant that can be harmful to the user and those around them. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II stimulant or controlled substance. This means it has a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Methamphetamine has no accepted medical use in the United States. It affects the central nervous system and increases energy and alertness. Other effects include irregular heartbeat and blood pressure, fast breathing, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, irritability, and mood issues.

Meth and Substance Abuse: Proven Risks

Methamphetamine can cause serious health consequences and even death. It is highly addictive and can cause permanent brain damage, cardiac arrest, liver failure, increased blood pressure, difficulty sleeping, kidney failure, memory loss, anxiety, and depression. In addition, meth users are at high risk for other serious consequences such as hepatitis B or C, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and dental problems like gum disease or tooth decay (this is also colloquially known as “meth mouth”).

Methamphetamine and other drugs like it also change how the body makes serotonin – a chemical that regulates moods – which can lead to violent behavior and hallucinations. Methamphetamine users who use it as a recreational drug will often become paranoid and aggressive when they use the drug because their bodies do not produce enough natural serotonin anymore. This may make them behave violently toward others or themselves (e.g., suicide attempts).

The truth is that drug abuse in and of itself is commonly viewed as a public health problem. The health risks and mental degradation that often accompanies long-term drug use often can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage.

Without the intervention of treatment and professional medical attention, these dangerous chemicals can be fatal to persons who find themselves unable to halt their usage.

Who is At Risk of Meth Addiction?

Methamphetamine is an incredibly dangerous illicit drug that can lead to addiction very quickly. Abuse of this stimulant drug causes mental and physical changes that make it difficult for users to stop meth use without help.

What are the risk factors for meth addiction? Knowing them may allow for early intervention when it comes to meth use and being able to spot people most at risk of falling victim to this illicit substance.

Genetic History – A family history of meth use, or even other stimulants, can make a person further down the genetic line predisposed to addiction. This is one of the most statistically trackable risk factors. Much the same way that a person with a family history of heart failure is genetically more at risk for that condition, a family history of crystal meth can render generations down the road at risk.

Co-Existing Conditions – Persons with co-existing mental health conditions are often at risk of falling into drug abuse. People with chronic anxiety and depression are chief in that category. This comes from a desire and an aim to try to self-medicate.

Often these people are simply trying to address the pain of their existence at the moment and are not thinking of the other health effects that accompany the drug use. Neurodivergent persons may fall into this category. However, it must be stated that, specifically with regard to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, there is a false belief and stigma associated with medication subscribed for ADHD.

The typical stimulant which is medically associated with that condition, methylphenidate, is commonly associated with being equivalent to methamphetamines. It is not. This stigma, ironically enough, can result in neurodivergent persons seeking to medicate appropriately and safely running into logistical or societal blockades.

Environmental Factors – This can be anything from the physical environment, to stress factors, to isolation. Factors in one’s life and environment can push persons towards seeking, in extreme cases, intense forms of escapism in the form of a drug habit. From a socioeconomic point of view, it is important to keep in mind that research has shown that regions with lower-income, poverty, and economic/environmental hardships also correlate with increased drug consumption.

What are The Signs of Meth Addiction?

Signs of Meth Addiction

Meth causes the brain to release abnormally high levels of dopamine, a chemical neurotransmitter that plays a role in motivation, pleasure, and reward. When this happens, users experience feelings of euphoria and energy.

At first, meth tends to make people feel more alert, energetic and sociable. But it also makes them anxious and paranoid. After a while, they may develop sleeping problems or lose interest in eating or having sex. They may have trouble keeping up with their responsibilities at work or school and begin to neglect family members or friends.

Meth Addiction Symptoms at a Glance

Some of the signs of meth addiction, at a glance, are:

  • Psychotic symptoms, in the form of violent episodes, including threatening people and breaking things in the home
  • Dilated pupils
  • Loss of interest in appearance or hygiene
  • Irritability, restlessness, and anxiety or panic attacks
  • Insomnia (sleeping too much) or hypersomnia (sleeping too little)
  • Anorexia (loss of appetite) or bulimia (binge eating followed by purging)

Methamphetamine Overdose: The Facts

A meth overdose occurs when someone uses too much of the drug and has life-threatening symptoms that are severe enough to risk or cause death. Drug overdose is one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths have increased every year since 2002.

Meth Overdose by the Numbers

In 2016 alone, more than 63,600 Americans died from drug overdoses — up from 52,400 in 2015. These numbers include both prescription painkillers and illegal drugs like heroin. Methamphetamine use and, subsequently, methamphetamine overdose has been rising in recent years, partially because it’s easy to find and cheap compared to other drugs like cocaine or heroin. The possibility of meth overdose depends on many factors, including the person’s approximate age and amount of the drug taken.

Methamphetamine is also dangerous because too much meth can cause an increase in body temperature and heart rate, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. In fact, according to a study published by the CDC in 2018:

  • People who use meth are over three times more likely than non-users to die prematurely from any cause other than injury or homicide
  • The odds of premature death by meth overdose are even higher when you look only at deaths due to cardiovascular disease
  • Meth users are twice as likely as people who don’t use meth to die from cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure or heart attack

 

What are the warning signs of meth overdose, then? How can you notice when this might be about to happen, to take action? Meth overdose symptoms may include:

  • Tremors or twitching
  • Rapid or Irregular heartbeat
  • Acute memory loss
  • Abnormal breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Hallucinations
  • Agitation or aggression
  • Seizures

 

If you believe you’re witnessing a meth overdose or are about to witness one, the first step would be to call the emergency services and get urgent medical help. Stay with the overdose victim and keep them calm to prevent injury until emergency care arrives.

The Benefits of Getting Addiction Treatment for Meth

Addiction Treatment for Meth

Meth overdose is an acute risk of the substance, but that aside, the havoc the habit can wreck on a person’s life, as well as other health consequences associated with it, are enough to justify aggressive medical treatment for the habit. Addiction treatment is perhaps the most important thing that can be done to avoid the risk of meth overdose for someone struggling with the habit.

The treatment process can help with a myriad of health issues. More importantly, overdose is not something to take lightly. If not handled correctly, an experience like that can be final, fatal, and tragic, with no way to walk away from it.

The Treatment Options for Meth Abuse

The addiction treatment process is critical, not just for those at risk of a chronic methamphetamine overdose but anyone suffering from the habit. Treatment starts with detox to rid the body of the dependency on the substance, thus dramatically cutting the risk of overdose to virtually zero. From there, treatment includes therapy to deal with the underlying issues that led to the addiction in the first place.

Much of the drug dependency can be down to feelings of isolation which is why support groups are often heavily utilized in addiction treatment. These support groups can erode much of the stigma persons struggling with drug habits may feel.

Seek treatment for meth addiction today!

If you or a loved one are struggling with a meth or substance abuse habit, contact Best Rehabs In Arizonas! The risk of meth overdose is not something to take lightly.

Reach out to our Admissions staff today, our professional team is standing by and ready to help you take that first step away from addiction and the risk of overdose. Give yourself the break you deserve and reach out now!

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Meth Comedown

Meth Comedown

The intense effects of methamphetamine have made it a popular drug of abuse. But the high from the drug does wear off eventually and is followed by what is called a “crash” or “comedown.”

What happens during a meth comedown and withdrawal, how long it lasts, and whether or not the unpleasant and sometimes hazardous symptoms may be lessened are all covered here.

Keep reading to find out how to best manage the crash after meth use, and find out more about effective forms of treatment as well!

What Is the Meth Comedown?

When the effects of a methamphetamine high wear off, those who are dependent on the substance may experience severe withdrawal, commonly known as a “comedown,” characterized by strong dysphoria, anxiety, and agitation.

“Binging,” or obsessively consuming meth repeatedly every several hours for 3-15 days at a time, is one way that many meth users try to prolong their high and delay the onset of their comedown. High-dose, frequent users have developed a high tolerance and may have switched to an administration method that produces an effect more quickly (i.e., smoking or injecting).

Extreme crystal meth use may lead to suffering from more severe withdrawal symptoms that persist for weeks. A person who has formed a dependency on meth will experience significant feelings of withdrawal when they ultimately quit usage, making the inevitable “crash” considerably worse than with infrequent or intermittent use.

After a binge lasting two or three days, the person will likely feel weary, dejected, and sleep for forty-eight hours. There may then be a time of chronic anhedonia or dysphoria, as well as a period of hunger and drug seeking. In addition, paranoia and irritability might occur at times.

What Are Crystal Meth Comedown Symptoms?

Crystal Meth Comedown Symptoms

Meth addiction has a very prolonged withdrawal process. Meth comedown symptoms and intense cravings follow periods of extended substance abuse. In many cases, meth addiction treatment is required for users experiencing worst-case scenarios.

The meth withdrawal phase typically lasts between two and three days. Anxiety, despair, weariness, and a general state of restlessness that may remind one of a hangover are all possible comedown symptoms for someone who has recently stopped using meth.

Meth addiction is notoriously difficult to break without medical assistance. Because of the brain’s chemistry changes to depend on the drug for dopamine, the comedown is mentally taxing.

Meth withdrawal has two distinct phases: the crash phase, which lasts just 1-3 days, and the acute phase, which lasts 7-10 days. When you stop using meth, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as extreme cravings for meth, changes in appetite, aches, pains, weariness, lethargy, disorientation, irritability, mood swings, sleeplessness, nightmares, anxiety, melancholy, and paranoia.

Meth Addiction: A Cycle of Binging and Crashing

After the effects of the first high wear off, users will often continue to take meth every few hours in an effort to recapture that original sensation of euphoria. Someone who uses meth on a regular basis may do so anywhere from once per day to six times per day.

This substance gets so addictive because, with each usage, there becomes less and less of a rush until soon there will be no rush at all. The binge stage of meth usage can last up to 15 days, and during that time, many users do not eat or sleep.

Meth usage progresses through a series of stages, the final one being the crash before the user enters the withdrawal phase. During this time, the person will experience tremendous fatigue and may need up to three days of sleep.

The Meth Addiction Withdrawal Timeline

Meth withdrawal has a chemical impact on the brain and body. Repeated usage over time can cause permanent changes in the brain’s biology, ultimately leading to physical dependence on the drug.

However, meth users can develop both physical AND psychological dependence on the drug. In other words, people may come to believe that they need to consume meth to maintain a healthy body or a level head.

If you’ve developed a physical tolerance to meth, you may have kept using it to avoid uncomfortable emotions. However, if you’re ready to kick your meth habit for good, you’ll need to quit ingesting the substance and seek addiction treatment services such as those at Best Rehabs In Arizonas.

Substance abuse and meth addiction treatment centers help users treat the factors behind abuse issues, finding the driving factors are often mental health disorders.

Immediately After Stopping Meth Use

This will initiate a period of physical and mental adjustment as your body adjusts to life without meth. The physical and emotional symptoms of this change can be terrifying. However, if you truly want to rid your life of meth, this is a crucial step.

The effects of meth can be felt for up to 12 hours after use. After 12 hours, your body will likely start experiencing withdrawal symptoms from meth. There are several stages to a meth comedown that can last anywhere from a few days to a week as your body readjusts to life without meth. What follows is a brief overview of the typical stages of the crystal meth withdrawal timeline:

24-Hours After Last Use

Your energy levels will be low, and you’ll feel fatigued and listless. You’ll probably sense a shift in mood, maybe bordering on irritation or agitation.

Second and Third Days

The worst of the withdrawal symptoms from meth typically occur during these days. Despite no longer being exhausted, your irritation level is certainly rising. Since your body is not used to functioning without the substance, huge chemical changes are going on within the body and mind.

You may have trouble focusing, have emotional ups and downs, and experience cognitive dissonance. While experiencing the worst effects of a meth comedown, people have trouble concentrating and remembering new information.

Days 4-7

In most cases, a week is all it takes to recover from a meth high. Physical withdrawal symptoms should ease, but psychological desires may linger for a while. People will still feel physically less anxious, but they will be more exhausted mentally due to sleep and appetite difficulties.

Post Acute Meth Withdrawal: After One Week

Meth Withdrawal Timeline

Meth withdrawal and recovery are extremely challenging for a number of reasons. After a week of comedown, most people experience a “crash.” This implies they are not just tired, but also devoid of any positive emotions.

Depression and anxiety can be particularly intense during this post-comedown period, and people may have to fight off intense urges to use the substance they know would help them feel better.

It’s not uncommon for meth users to have unpleasant dreams during the comedown. However, how long someone has been using meth, how often they use, and how much they use all contribute to the severity of the comedown.

Long-term users will have the most difficult comedowns since their bodies will go through severe withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop using the substance.

Luckily, certain evidence-based practices and remedies exist to help you recover and make it safely through the comedown process. Whether at Best Rehabs In Arizonas or another facility, make sure you take guard against relapse after detoxing from meth by using these measures as effectively and completely as possible.

Tips for Managing the Meth Comedown Period

Stay clean and off meth if you want to avoid the agony of withdrawal and comedown after meth usage. But desires and cravings for meth can be strenuous and demanding, especially in the initials days and weeks of stopping use.

However, with the correct support, such as that offered at Best Rehabs In Arizona, you should be able to get through the initial stages of withdrawal and remain drug-free, ultimately achieving full recovery.

Here are the most effective methods we know of to help you recover from meth abuse disorder and handle withdrawal and the meth comedown.

Get Professional Help

Effective Drug Treatment

Meth withdrawal symptoms are severe. Consult an addiction expert or a doctor if you have any doubts about your capacity to do it and succeed on your own.

With the guidance of a professional, someone going through meth withdrawal can learn to cope with the powerful and unpleasant sensations that arise during this time.

Be Sure to Eat and Stay Hydrated

One of the most crucial aspects of preparing for a meth comedown is maintaining a proper diet and hydration. Because meth can reduce appetite, long-term users may be malnourished and underweight.

Eat a healthy, balanced meal rich in calories, essential nutrients, and water to keep yourself healthy and hydrated.

Dehydration is a common symptom of meth comedown since meth is a diuretic, and staying hydrated can help mitigate other comedown symptoms, including headaches, exhaustion, and lethargy.

Regular Sleep Patterns

It is common knowledge that meth disrupts people’s sleeping patterns by its very nature as a powerful stimulant drug. Many people use it explicitly to remain up all night and to feel energized without the need for sleep. Restoring regular rest habits should be a priority as you begin the process of quitting drugs. Create a routine for your bedtime and commit to following it.

The ability to think clearly and actively engage in life increases with enough rest. Getting adequate sleep during meth comedown will help you resist the temptation to give in to cravings or relapse since well-rested people have superior impulse control.

Remain Occupied with Tasks and Activities

No matter what you do, the withdrawal symptoms from meth will be unpleasant. After the worst of the withdrawal symptoms have passed, keeping yourself occupied helps ease the remaining discomfort.

Making arrangements to see loved ones or work associates will help you forget about the pain you’re in temporarily. In contrast, allowing yourself to feel bored may trigger a need, so keeping your mind active with other people or activities will help you avoid thinking about, desiring, or returning to use.

Effects of Long-Term Crystal Meth Use

Effects of Long-Term Crystal Meth Use

Meth use can be attributed to a wide range of causes. Many people find that it helps them stay alert and concentrate better. Some people like the high it gives them since it’s enjoyable and euphoric. Some users enjoy the drug’s euphoric effects, while others appreciate how it reduces anxiety and opens them up to trying new, sometimes dangerous activities.

Meth may have various devastating effects on the body and the brain, but many individuals continue to use it despite this knowledge. Meth addicts often exhibit risky conduct. Those who use it may act violently or become enraged. Long-term addicts may also suffer paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and severe depression due to the drug’s effects on the brain.

Meth-induced psychosis is one of the worst mental side effects of long-term abuse. Individuals experience severe hallucinations and delusions. These may be auditory and visual in nature.

Physical dangers of long-term abuse include heart-related issues, stroke, blood pressure issues, and challenges related to blood vessel weakening. However, with the right treatment program, most of these symptoms may be reversed.

Long-Term Meth Recovery Is Possible at Best Rehabs In Arizona

With the right treatment team and a driven attitude towards sobriety, long-term recovery from meth comedown is possible. The final element in this equation is a strong support system, which can be achieved through support groups and the assistance of family post-treatment.

At Best Rehabs In Arizonas, we provide users with the tools they need to achieve long-term recovery from meth abuse disorder. Through a combination of treatment solutions and preparation for post-rehabilitation, our clients are well-prepared to battle the triggers that normally cause relapse and possess the proper knowledge and awareness to recognize the mental health disorders and symptoms that manifest and lead to potential failure.

With the help of our treatment team and their support system, most of our client’s successfully complete treatment and experience extended recovery. To learn more about our programs, contact a member of our admissions staff today!

 

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What Is the Most Addictive Drug?

Most Addictive Drug

In a world where dozens of substances exist that cause an entire range of side effects associated with addiction, one of the most commonly pondered questions is “what is the most addictive drug?” Finding a definitive answer to this question is all but impossible, considering how relative addictions can be.

The science and medical worlds would disagree, considering the physical markers and battery of tests conducted on participants over the years. Readings of different brain chemicals and the way our body responds to abuse do show some pretty hard evidence as far as how addictive certain drugs can be.

However, the scientific and medical term is better served using the description of “physical dependence” than addiction. Addiction is far too mental to produce a definitive number one in this category.

A check of multiple sources produces multiple definitions, each with different wording or their own twist on the term:

Source 1: An addiction is a chronic dysfunction of the brain system that involves reward, motivation, and memory. It’s about how your body craves a substance or behavior, especially if it causes a compulsive or obsessive pursuit of “reward” and a lack of concern over consequences.

Source 2: Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.

By most definitions, addiction can stem from several different sources and isn’t limited to alcohol or illegal substances. People can develop habits with something as simple as Diet Coke.

Although the severity of the addiction is ultimately determined by the eyes or mind of the user, we attempt to make sense of this question in the following article.

What Is the Most Addictive Drug?

The answer to the question of “what is the most addictive drug?” depends on who you ask and the criteria you use to judge the addiction. Is it based on how often the user abuses the drug? Is it based on how much a user will go through to obtain the substance? Or is it answered based on the severity of withdrawal, using a combination of the drug’s grip on the mind and body.

If you’re using the latter to answer the question, technically, the most addictive drugs, not a drug, would probably be a three-way tie between alcohol, nervous-system sedatives, and opioids. Technically, we could cut that list down to two because alcohol can be grouped as a nervous system depressant.

Opioids are a class of drugs that include heroin and prescription painkillers, while central nervous system depressants include alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates.

Opioid addiction is characterized by compulsive drug use despite adverse consequences to one’s health, finances, or relationships. This leads to tolerance—when users must take more significant amounts of the drug to get high—and withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it abruptly or after prolonged use.

Central nervous system depressant addiction often occurs when someone uses these substances for recreational purposes but becomes dependent upon them over time due primarily to their soothing effects on areas within the brain responsible for regulating emotions and behavior. Users often get wrapped up in a cycle of using these substances to numb certain feelings.

In addition, they also have the most severe withdrawal symptoms, with nervous system depressants edging opioids slightly in this category. And they all have a high rate of relapse. In addition, the consensus of most users would be that these two are indeed the most addictive drugs.

But that’s if you ask people who have struggled with these drugs – people who preferred them. Plenty of people tried both categories of these drugs and didn’t enjoy them, instead maybe leaning toward cocaine or amphetamine.

To this demographic of the drug user, cocaine and methamphetamine would be the most addictive drugs. This makes this question so difficult to answer with any level of certainty.

What Makes a Drug Addictive?

What makes a drug addictive? This question is a little easier to answer but may vary from person to person. However, the core driving factors typically remain the same in nearly every instance of addiction.

Typically, addiction begins subconsciously, usually by blocking or correcting a negative feeling or emotion an individual has. It could be insecurity, guilt, anger, or several other issues.

A large majority of the time, individuals aren’t even aware that they’re participating in the abuse to mask or bury the feeling. However, dependence takes hold after a significant period of use, mental and sometimes physical.

During the early abuse period, the substance in question is causing an explosion of certain chemicals in the brain. Dopamine, serotonin, and other chemicals, released in large amounts, cause the euphoric feeling or “high” users chase.

However, after an extended period of the drug driving the release of these chemicals, the body cannot produce them naturally and relates the dispensing of these chemicals with the ingestion of the drug. Eventually, the user takes  the medication to maintain a somewhat average level.

Now, what about types of addictive substances?

Categories of Addictive Substances

Categories of Addictive Substances

 

There are several categories of addictive substances. Each of these categories seems to have its unique, addictive properties and potential level of severity. At the minimum, they can be distinguished by their levels of physical addiction or lack thereof.

  • Stimulants: Amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine
  • Inhalants: Spray paint, antifreeze, nitrous oxide
  • Cannabinoids: Marijuana, hash, wax
  • Depressants: Benzos, anti-depressants, barbiturates, alcohol
  • Opioids: Heroin, methadone, fentanyl
  • Steroids: Various performance-enhancing drugs, human growth hormone
  • Hallucinogens: LSD, PCP, DMT, Psylocibin mushrooms
  • Prescription drugs: Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, morphine

 

With such a variety of categories, how would we even begin to determine the most addictive substance?

How to Determine the Most Addictive Drug

Determining the most addictive drug is difficult because of the varying viewpoints. However, you can use two approaches when attempting to answer this question.

Using a scientific or medical approach to reach the answer would require looking at past data. Noting things like which drugs altered brain chemicals the most, which drug produced the most intense detox period, and other evidence-based conclusions would give you the popular answer for the most addictive drug.

The other approach requires a personal testament from specific users of various addictive substances. However, it’s not incorrect to assume that a large majority of personal opinions would point toward heroin or another opioid being the most addictive.

This also matches with scientific and medical data and is further intensified by the fact that we’re currently in the middle of an epidemic.

The Most Physically Addictive Drug

The most physically addictive drug isn’t as difficult of a question to answer. However, this spot is shared by three substances.

Alcohol, benzos, and opioids are the clear winners regarding the most physically addictive drugs. They all produce life-threatening, painful withdrawals and almost always require medically assisted detox.

The Most Psychologically Addictive Drug

This is another matter of opinion answer and garners many different results. However, many argue that methamphetamine is the most psychologically addictive drug.

The primary reason for this widespread opinion is the numerous cases of psychosis triggered by methamphetamine abuse. Typically, it takes prolonged use of methamphetamine to begin experiencing symptoms of psychosis.

However, more recent, highly concentrated batches of crystal meth are causing psychosis after only a month or two of abuse. In addition, overdose cases of methamphetamine have steadily increased after being almost non-existent for over a decade.

The Top 5 Most Addictive Drugs

The argument over which drugs are the most addictive will likely be perpetual as long as abuse exists among the population. However, a list of the five most addictive drugs is probably more agreed upon, only in varying orders.

The top five most addictive drugs, in our opinion, are as follows:

1. Heroin/Fentanyl

Heroin and fentanyl may not have the severity level when it comes to withdrawals as benzos, but they seem far more prone to quick addiction and abuse. One look at the numbers of fentanyl overdose deaths and the use statistics give insight into the grave situation that is the opioid epidemic.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol has the number two spot for a couple of reasons. First, it’s the most widely abused drug out of all other options and is more accessible because of its legality. Two, the withdrawal symptoms are dangerous, potentially causing life-threatening side effects. Alcohol is tough to detox from without the help of medical professionals.

3. Cocaine/Crack

Cocaine Dependence and Addiction

 

Crack was an easy pick for the list and has been a staple among discussions of the most addictive drugs. Many crack users become hooked after their first hit, chasing that initial high through years and years of spiraling and abuse. It’s important not to forget that before the opioid and fentanyl epidemic, the crack epidemic ravaged inner-city neighborhoods across the country.

4. Crystal Meth

Number four on the list is methamphetamine, otherwise known as crystal meth. This drug was dormant for a period but is back with a vengeance, causing an epidemic of its own that’s been overshadowed by the opioid crisis. However, after a steep increase in meth overdose deaths, this dangerous drug finally has the attention of the public eye again.

5. Prescription Pills

Prescription pills round out the top five and include several different substances like benzos, pain killers, and stimulants. Although the prescription pill crisis isn’t at the heights it was in the early 2000s, it’s still a massive problem and takes lives daily. Not only does this category include benzos but also opioid painkillers, which are often a stepping stone to heroin and fentanyl.

The Rise of Fentanyl Addiction

As mentioned above, the prescription pill epidemic of the early 2000s eventually gave way to the heroin epidemic, which quickly morphed into the fentanyl crisis. Currently, massive quantities of drugs flood our streets because of the shifting availability.

Dealers no longer must import the substance from China, as Mexican cartels manufacture the drug right on our borders. This led to another record year of opioid overdose deaths and a grim reminder that the problem is far from under control.

Finding Top Treatment, No Matter the Addiction

Regardless of your drug, the top treatment regardless of addiction is essential. No addiction should ever take precedence over another, as everyone has their own battles to fight.

Each addiction case shares a common denominator – there’s human life at stake and a family that’s losing someone they love. Fighting substance abuse is a worthy cause that requires a collective effort, and winning the battle starts with awareness.

Long-term Sobriety with Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery

If you or someone you love is suffering from any addiction, Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery is here to help you reclaim your life and independence. Our top-notch staff is compassionate about our effort; every client gets 110%, regardless of their addiction or background.

To find out how we can help you in your journey to recovery, contact a member of our compassionate staff at any time, day or night. We have convenient locations in Arizona and Colorado that accept clients from all over the country, regardless of geography. Don’t let distance stop you – contact Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery today.

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IOP Programs Denver

Intensive outpatient programs

Attending a Denver Intensive Outpatient Program

Intensive outpatient programs or IOPs are a way for mental health treatment centers to bridge the gap between inpatient and outpatient facilities. An inpatient facility allows patients to stay there for an extended period to deal with their problems. These facilities limit the number of external stimuli that a patient has to deal with, so they can focus on their recovery. Because of this focused recovery approach, inpatient treatment tends to have more success and less chance of a relapse. Inpatient treatment isn’t for everyone, unfortunately. The type of treatment usually requires a person to leave their job or take an extended leave of absence.

The other side of the treatment scale is outpatient treatment. This type of treatment offers more freedom to the patient than inpatient treatment. With outpatient treatment, the patient must show up at a scheduled time to receive counseling and attend group therapy sessions. They don’t stay at the facility, and the onus is on them to make it to their scheduled counseling. Outpatient counseling has the downside that a person still has to deal with their environment and other influences that could lead them to relapse. IOP programs seek to find a middle ground between these two treatment options.

What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program Or IOP?

Intensive outpatient treatment is a treatment program for substance use disorder. It’s a step-down treatment after detox and inpatient treatment. Typically, it lasts for weeks, with visits scheduled for a few days out of the week. IOP can serve as either the primary treatment after detox or a continuing treatment method after a person has completed residential treatment. IOPs are built to be flexible and offer patients the best option for visiting a treatment center within their schedule. Most patients are trying to cope with re-entering the world and holding down a job. An IOP gives them the support they need through therapy while not infringing on their lives.

IOP sessions vary in length, but typically they last between two and four hours long. Most facilities that offer IOPs try to limit them to at least three days a week. More intensive programs might provide additional time, but three days are standard. One of the core focuses of IOP treatment is preventing relapse from external stimuli. Much of the discussion might be around managing the triggers that could lead to relapse and how to cope with those forces. Interpersonal relationships might need to be re-examined to give the person a better chance at staying away from those that might encourage unacceptable behavior.

What Does an IOP Treat?

While IOPs can be used for treating addiction, they can also be applied to an extensive range of mental health conditions. Among the typical cases in that IOP may be used are:

Typical Features of a Quality Intensive Outpatient Program

Not all IOP programs are the same. Some are far better at dealing with disorders than others through their flexibility and how they approach the issue of addiction or mental health disorders. The ideal IOP should feature:

Education Services

Recovering from any disorder requires understanding it fundamentally. A top-class IOP should incorporate education into its regimen. Part of the treatment should discuss how drug and alcohol addiction affects the body and the mind. Relapse prevention starts with recognizing the effects of cravings and how they change a person’s behavior. Intensive outpatient sessions should address practical ways of avoiding relapse.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy - IOP Programs Denver

Psychotherapy is one of the accepted methods of treating substance use disorder and mental health over the long term. A good IOP will incorporate family, group, and individual therapy to help recovering people deal with their conditions. Sharing experiences with others, opening up to family, or addressing the direct effects of a person’s mental health issue positively affects their ability to maintain their recovery.

Support Services

Typically, a person is in pretty rough shape financially, legally, and in employment when they enter rehab. The best IOP programs have advisors who can help people recover their financial and social standing while motivating them to continue their treatment. Finding solutions to these problems can help people focus more on improving themselves.

Who Can Benefit from a Denver IOP Program?

Anyone who has had a mental disorder or is dealing with long-term recovery from substance use disorder can benefit from joining an IOP. The IOP is an alternative to inpatient treatment while offering many benefits to outpatient therapy. IOPs do have an ideal candidate for success. A person who wants to undertake IOP needs to fit these criteria:

  • The patient must have completed inpatient treatment or have a mild enough substance use disorder that they don’t need acute treatment.
  • The patient must have a moderate substance abuse disorder.
  • They must not be dependent on drugs or alcohol.
  • They must have a means of support outside of the treatment center since they don’t live there.
  • The patient must be able to get to and from the facility independently.
  • They should be able to commit a significant amount of time to their recovery.

A recovery center would look at a patient’s history and determine whether they fit the ideal patient model before suggesting that they start IOP. Not all patients will match the perfect model of a patient. Since recovery depends on the individual, each person will have their own road to recovery. IOP can help some patients that don’t meet the ideal criteria but are willing to work towards their recovery.

Are IOP Programs in Denver Covered by Insurance?

IOP Programs in Denver Covered by Insurance

Insurance companies are required to cover treatment for mental health disorders. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires that all public, private, and group plans offer coverage for mental health treatment. IOP is another type of treatment that can help individuals who suffer from mental health disorders.

Therefore, IOP programs in Denver are covered by health insurance to a particular degree. Consulting with the facility will help you better understand whether your insurance will cover your IOP and to what amount. You may be responsible for meeting some part of the financial responsibility for your treatment, even with insurance.

Medication-Assisted Treatment and IOP Participation

Medication-Assisted Treatment or MAT uses medication alongside therapy to gain results in treating substance use disorder and mental health issues. Evidence from many studies suggests that this might be a viable way of helping some individuals cope with their mental health or substance use problems.

Results have shown that individuals who might otherwise be struggling with recovery have a much better outcome when incorporating MAT into their treatment. The use of MAT has historically been part of many inpatient and residential treatment programs. Introducing it to IOP requires adapting the existing methodology to the intensive program.

IOPs that incorporate MAT offer significant benefits over IOPs that use standard therapy as their go-to approach for treatment. Generally, patients who don’t have acute issues with substance usage are the best candidates for MAT. These patients benefit from being treated in their home environments for their disorders, allowing them a better chance of recovery. MAT raises that chance further by providing them with a way to manage their cravings through medication. Combining therapy with group support through IOP gives a recovering person the social support they need to recover from their disorder completely.

What Are the Features Of Top IOP Programs In Denver?

IOPs are quickly becoming popular because they combine the best of good treatment models. However, not all IOPs are helpful to every individual. The top IOPs in Denver share some similarities, however. Among the traits they display are:

  • Mental Health Disorder Assessment: Determine what mental health disorders the patients are dealing with.
  • Therapy Sessions: Group, individual, and family therapy should all form part of the treatment regimen.
  • Behavioral Health Assessment: How does this mental health disorder affect the person’s behavior?
  • Life Education Skills and Training: A recovering person will have to relearn many basic life skills a person needs when living independently.
  • Teaching Focus Development: Yoga and meditation help balance a patient and get them focused on their recovery.

If you are looking at an IOP and aren’t sure whether it’s right for you, you should objectively examine what it offers. You should be able to get to the location relatively quickly, so you don’t miss appointments. The staff should be welcoming and understanding about your goals. It should also offer you an individual solution to your problem, not a generic fix.

Find Lasting Sober Success with Best Rehabs In Arizonas Now

Best Rehabs In Arizona Recovery provides treatment to our patients with a view to long-term recovery. Our two decades of service have prepared us to deal with all types of mental and substance use disorders. Our staff is trained in helping recovering persons come to terms with their disorders and overcome them. Let us help you deal with your condition. Call us today, and we’ll guide you towards leaving your disorder behind and living your life anew!

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Signs Of Stimulant Abuse

Signs Of Stimulant Abuse

What Are the Most Common Stimulant Drugs?

The word “stimulants” describes a category of drugs and substances that affect the body and mind in unique ways. Within this broad classification, there are several further sub-categories. Prescription stimulants are frequently prescribed to persons for legitimate medical reasons by licensed and certified medical practitioners. It is considered unlawful to possess those substances within this category without a valid license (e.g., a prescription). Common examples of some of these are Adderall, Ritalin, and Methylphenidate. These substances are used for treating conditions like ADHD.

Then, some stimulants drug are outright banned and illegal. These substances cannot be prescribed medically, are strictly controlled, and carry heavy penalties. Examples of these drugs are cocaine, methamphetamines, and MDMA.

Finally, some substances aren’t controlled and can be possessed and consumed by anyone. Substances like caffeine (commonly found in coffee and sodas) and nicotine (in cigarettes and vape liquids). Caffeine isn’t a controlled substance, but cigarettes and vape products aren’t legally accessible to persons under the age of 18.

What Are the General Effects Of Stimulant Substances?

One of the essential things to know about stimulants is that they are addictive, habit-forming substances. The mind and body become dependent on them over time and start to, in a sense, “need” them to function. You might be asking, “How does this work?” In general, all stimulants operate via the same principle, and thus, all have pretty similar effects on the brain. Stimulants trigger an increase of dopamine in our brains. Dopamine is a chemical that acts as a “feel-good messenger.” What does that mean? Motivation, focus, mood, and decision-making are aspects of the human experience dictated and influenced heavily by dopamine levels. Dopamine runs our brains’ pleasure and reward centers, so persons consuming stimulants experience elevation to better moods, more motivation, focus, and more.

The only significant difference in the general effect stimulants have across the different categories is the increased degree to which dopamine is released. Coffee and nicotine have probably the mildest effect of them all, whereas outright illegal substances result in excessive dopamine levels in the brain. Controlled and prescribed substances like Methylphenidate are designed to help persons with ADHD. They have difficulty naturally producing dopamine to become more functional closer to a neurotypical experience. Prescribers monitor the usage of the substance in medical cases until the desired result is achieved. Misuse of these substances leads to a buildup and tolerance in the system, leading to higher and higher dosages and deeper addiction.

What are the Side Effects of Stimulant Abuse And Dependence?

One experiences many side effects due to the misuse and abuse of stimulant substances. These side effects can be experienced both within the immediate and short-term and over the long-term. Remember that one can experience adverse side effects from all stimulant substances. (Overconsumption of coffee, for instance, will undoubtedly lead to negative impacts). It’s also important to note that the body’s dependence on stimulants will result in withdrawal symptoms when deprived of said stimulant. The short-term side effects of usage and withdrawal can coincide with significantly more uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. With illegal, banned or misuse of prescription substances even, the side effects will be much more pronounced.

Short term side effects can range from:

  • High blood pressure
  • Excessive sweating
  • Elevated heart rate and breathing
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Vomiting
  • Poor diet
  • Nausea

 

Side Effects of Stimulant Abuse

Long-term side effects of stimulant abuse are even more concerning because, depending on the severity, the misuse can have far-reaching consequences for the person many years later. Some examples of long-term side effects are:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Psychosis
  • Blood vessel damage
  • Kidney damage
  • Lung damage
  • Elevated stroke risk
  • Elevated heart failure risk

 

How Can I Tell the Signs Of Stimulant Abuse?

Nobody wants to lose a loved one to the spiral of addiction. It is a destructive habit that can harm and even destroy the lives of everyone touched by it. That is why recognizing the signs of any form of stimulant misuse is so vital. Often, the best way to discern that someone may be misusing stimulants would be to look for critical behavioral changes. KEEP IN MIND that not all behavioral changes are a surefire sign of stimulant abuse! Mental health issues like depression can cause behavioral changes. It is also essential to keep in mind that accusing someone of being a drug addict is never the way to address it.

At best, your hunch is correct, and the person will double down on their attempts to hide the habit from you. At worst, your hunch is wrong, and you have now caused psychological and emotional damage to a person already in a place of struggling. Suppose you suspect someone has a stimulant abuse issue. In that case, the cornerstone of all efforts should be free of judgment and full of empathy and care and the engagement of professional sources on how to handle it tactfully.

That being said, here are some of the more common behavioral changes that someone may be misusing stimulants:

  • You come to discover that they are stealing or forging prescriptions.
  • They are taking doses higher than prescribed without authorization.
  • They become easily hostile and experience excessive mood swings.
  • Their sleep habits have changed, either increasing or decreasing in amount.
  • Decision-making is uncharacteristically erratic.
  • Overall personality changes (overly euphoric/energetic/sedated).

 

Is Stimulant Abuse Dangerous?

Addiction to stimulants can be dangerous. For some people, it is even fatal. The recent overdose deaths of two Arizona college students who were sold counterfeit Adderall (laced with meth) highlights yet another danger of this class of drugs.

It should not be underestimated just how profound, tragic and aggressive a situation it can descend into. Everyone is urged to exercise caution with any types of controlled substances, stay away from illegal stimulants, and be measured and moderate with the usage of caffeine and nicotine in general.

Does Stimulant Abuse Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

In short, yes. This was discussed in detail above, but in essence, stimulants are addictive substances. As a result, the body experiences a withdrawal phase when deprived of it. This phase can include experiencing symptoms like fever, nausea and vomiting, light sensitivity, stomach pains, cramps, muscular pain, excessive sweating, and hallucinations, to name a few.

Finding Help for Stimulant Abuse is Possible

If you or a loved one are experiencing an addiction to stimulant substances and would like to regain control, autonomy, and agency over your life, there is hope. When it comes to stimulant abuse and treatment, a proper healthcare provider with programs specifically formulated and focused on rehabilitating persons experiencing substance use disorder is critical. The internet is usually an excellent tool for finding quality options.

For instance, a quick Google search for “Colorado stimulant addiction treatment centers” yields a wealth of information. By researching the history, success stories, and reputation of a facility, you can usually discern the general quality of care one can expect. Some factors to keep an eye out for when considering a facility or program are the qualifications of the staff, the accreditation status of the facility, the extent of their financing options, as well as whether or not they take each patient as a unique individual that not only deserves but requires a bespoke plan of treatment to ensure the highest chance of lasting sobriety. A good rule of thumb is that an exceptional facility will usually have a reputation that precedes it.

What are the Features Of Treatment for Stimulant Addiction?

Treatment for Stimulant Addiction

Stimulant addiction is a condition that requires a multi-stage, bespoke plan of action. Each person is unique. Their experience of addiction is unique, as are the specific circumstances and factors that led them to fall into the habit in the first place. For this reason, a good facility will work to figure out just how each phase of treatment should be handled for each person. There are, however, some broad stages that the treatment of stimulant abuse travels through:

  • Detoxification – When the body is deprived of the substance, it will invariably rebel. This phase is painful and uncomfortable and requires clinical staff and observation to reduce discomfort as much as possible.
  • Medication-Assisted-Treatment (MAT) – A combination of therapy and medication, MAT is used by pairing FDA-approved drugs that have been proven to help people overcome addiction. This can be cautiously employed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the severity and nature of the case.
  • Dual-Diagnosis Programs – Addiction is often one of the conditions a patient may be suffering from. Things like anxiety and depression may also be playing their roles in their pain. The addiction itself may be a symptom or result of the initial condition that the patient fell into due to trying to self-medicate. A good facility will be aware of this possibility and screen for it in their initial consultation.
  • Inpatient Care – Depending on the severity of the case, the patient may need to stay at the facility around the clock to be monitored, administered therapy, and other treatments deemed necessary for holistic recovery. Inpatient care can be expensive, but it has a very high success rate. Patients that undergo inpatient care are kept away from negative influences in the outside world until they can deal with them.
  • Outpatient Care – For cases less severe or severe cases that have de-escalated sufficiently, outpatient care may be the move. This involves the patient coming into the facility on a scheduled basis for treatment sessions as appropriate but not residing at the facility. Outpatient care is typically less costly than inpatient care. The downside is that patients are constantly exposed to the same stimuli that led them into addiction in the first place.
  • Aftercare – Don’t make the mistake of considering aftercare an afterthought. This is a critical, non-optional part of lasting recovery. This element involves many components such as skill-building, group therapy, community support, and more. This phase focuses on bolstering and sustaining the patient’s sobriety as they step into a new life free of the substance’s hold over them.

 

Find Lasting Recovery from Stimulant Addiction at Best Rehabs In Arizona

We have over 20 years of expert experience in treating and rehabilitating persons struggling with addiction and stimulant abuse issues. Our facility is staffed by full-service teams comprised of qualified, expert medical and holistic care professionals who are ready and willing to work with you as you navigate the entire process of recovery and rehabilitation; from detoxing to healing from the psychological trauma that likely caused the addiction, to the critical Aftercare process that empowers our patients and prepares them for life on the other side of substance dependency.

A happy, fulfilling, and engaging life is our ultimate goal for every person that walks through our doors, and we have the track record to back that up! If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to stimulants, know that hope exists. Contact us today for more information or a consultation!

 

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Chronic Relapse Treatment Center

What is Chronic Relapse

The Cycle of Addiction and Relapse

For many individuals who suffer from substance abuse disorder, the rehabs they enter can end up becoming revolving doors. The constant cycle of recovery and relapse cycles over and over in a seemingly never-ending battle for sobriety.

What makes the situation more frustrating is the inability to pin down why the relapse keeps happening. The motivation to recover is present, and the effort is put in each time – it’s difficult to remain in recovery after a few weeks or months after graduation.

This would just be attributed to a lack of discipline or motivation in the past. However, many experts believe it points to an underlying mental health condition or a specific set of symptoms that manifest this behavior.

It’s known as chronic relapse, and it’s actually a very common occurrence in many present-day rehab participants.

What Is Chronic Relapse?

In order to understand chronic relapse, first, consider temporary relapse. Temporary relapse occurs when addicts experience a setback related to their recovery process — losing housing, getting fired from a job, or having an argument with loved ones.

After experiencing a period of stress or difficulty, most people bounce back into their normal routines of substance abuse. They temporarily lose their motivation to stay clean or quit drinking.

However, if the crisis persists, then it becomes a chronic relapse. A person suffering from chronic relapse experiences regular periods of craving, increased tolerance, negative mood swings, compulsive behavior, poor performance at school or work, and/or legal troubles.

Short Term Addiction Treatment and Relapse

Those who successfully complete detoxification and enter residential rehab programs tend to remain sober longer than others. On average, recovering heroin users spend less than six months living in halfway houses before returning home.

Yet many individuals who suffer from chronic relapse will fall off the wagon just a short time after returning home. This could be because the initial time in inpatient treatment wasn’t enough for them.

Once patients leave rehabilitation, they must rely solely upon themselves to deal with triggers and temptations. If adequate education and treatment wasn’t received during their stay in rehab, they’re left unprepared for entering the real world again. If left untreated, chronic relapse can lead to further deterioration.

What is the difference between a chronic relapse treatment center and a traditional rehab facility?

What Is a Chronic Relapse Treatment Center?

 

For individuals who frequently suffer from challenges associated with relapse, regular rehabilitation facilities that offer the typical 30-day program clearly aren’t enough. The resources available at a normal treatment center and a facility that specializes in this issue can be more accommodating.

By definition, a chronic relapse treatment center is a facility that provides care 24 hours a day in a non-hospital environment. The planned length of stay in these facilities is typically anywhere from six to 12 months.

Chronic relapse treatment centers normally include the following elements as part of their treatment plans:

  • Helping clients stay active and healthy through participation in exercise or sports
  • Preparing balanced, healthy diets high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and minimally processed foods
  • Various stress management techniques like yoga or mediation
  • They offer substance abuse and mental health resources to break the constant cycle of relapse

Personalized Treatment to Combat Chronic Relapse

What Is a Chronic Relapse Treatment Center

There is also a distinct outline for treatment offered to clients in chronic relapse treatment centers. Personalized treatment plans contain elements of each of the following:

  • Evidence-based treatment that’s proven to work long-term in an inpatient setting
  • Various options for customized care plans that include dual-diagnosis treatment
  • Continued support and sober living home options for structured rehab during aftercare
  • Continued resources for group recovery meetings during post-care treatment

Facilities that specialize in chronic relapse often include a softer, more accommodating touch that provides more of a home-like environment. Many people consider these facilities as “upscale” or “extravagant.” However, there is just more attention put into the need for the client’s appropriate environment.

Different people require different elements and environments to promote long-term sobriety. Research has shown that individuals who suffer from chronic relapse often require a more intimate, personal environment.

In order to identify the presence of chronic relapse, you must understand the signs and symptoms of this condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Relapse

There are specific signs and symptoms that identify the presence of chronic relapse. These symptoms include the following:

  • They are glamorizing the use of their drug of choice. This may include the individual sharing fond memories of past substance abuse.
  • The individual believes they can use again without any negative consequences
  • They may become increasingly isolated
  • They may stop participating in their 12-step recovery meetings
  • They stop pursuing interests that were a part of their recovery plan
  • They may begin to doubt how effective their initial treatment plan is/was

Identifying these signs could make it possible to prevent relapse before it happens. Do you know the differences between emotional, mental, and physical relapses?

Emotional, Mental, and Physical Relapse

Emotional, Mental, and Physical Relapse

To understand chronic relapse, you must understand how normal relapse takes place. It doesn’t happen overnight – in fact; it happens in three distinct phases.

Emotional Stage

The emotional stage includes the individual experiencing anger, stress, sadness, depression, or any wide range of intense feelings. Initially, the user may not think about using. However, when these feelings aren’t dealt with and processed in a healthy manner, individuals will progress to the next stage.

Mental/Craving Stage

This is the mental warning sign of an impending relapse. Users may find it difficult to stop thinking about using at this point and continuously play the process of using it repeatedly in their minds.

Physical/Engagement Stage

At this point, the user physically engages and enters relapse. The user put themselves at high risk of addiction once again by continuing to relapse. The urge to use again will be quite intense with each subsequent relapse, and it’s easy to fall back into habitual use.

Now, what about the stages of chronic relapse?

What Are the Stages of Chronic Relapse?

The stages of chronic relapse aren’t dissimilar to normal relapse. However, they take place over an extended period and include several more mental steps and contemplation. Below is an example of the stages of chronic relapse.

Precontemplation

During this stage, individuals aren’t necessarily contemplating using drugs or drinking alcohol. However, thoughts of past use may circle around in their heads. They may dream about using drugs or give too much thought to reliving their past or remembering what drug use felt like.

Contemplation

During this stage, individuals are actively contemplating using drugs. They may go back and forth in their head, arguing with themselves or trying to rationalize why it would be okay to use drugs at this point.

Rationalization

After making the decision to move forward with using, individuals will attempt to rationalize their decision to themselves. They’ll use excuses like, “well, I’ve been sober for a while, so I won’t become addicted again.” Another famous excuse is, “I’m only going to use this one time, and I won’t get high after this.”

Relapse

During this stage, the user actively engages in relapse. They will obtain their drug of choice and proceed to get high. The results after this stage vary but often include the same sentiment among all users.

Remorse

The remorse stage includes the individual expressing guilt about using. This will include a period of depression and withdrawal from society, family, and friends. It’s often these feelings of guilt and negative emotions that trigger subsequent use. Individuals are unable to properly handle or process these emotions, so they turn to further drug use to avoid dealing with them.

After this stage, uses go one of two ways. They either choose to seek help immediately or fall back into regular use.

Regardless, once the user comes back to terms with the fact that they need more help, they enter the acceptance phase and must go through the detox, withdrawal, and treatment process all over again.

Individuals who suffer from chronic relapse end up wasting large chunks of their lives on this condition. Each time they cycle through relapse, treatment, recovery, and back into relapse, you’re looking at anywhere from six to nine months of hard work and progress erased each time.

Why Do People Relapse Frequently?

Most people think relapse involves going right back to exactly the same way of thinking, and doing that got them hooked in the first place. But research tells us otherwise.

Even though a person may engage in harmful activities, he or she won’t develop true addiction unless certain personality traits come into play. Addiction researchers used to refer to these characteristics as vulnerability factors but now call them risk markers.

Risk markers occur early in development and indicate susceptibility to developing addictive tendencies later in life. People whose genetic makeup includes specific variations in dopamine genes, for instance, are believed to be predisposed to alcoholism and substance abuse issues. Researchers have identified dozens of similar risk markers.

Risk markers vary from individual to individual, but the following are typical warning signs that someone could develop issues with chronic relapse:

  • Lack of strong bonds with parents
  • Unstable childhood
  • Low self-esteem
  • Poorly developed conscience
  • History of trauma or neglect
  • Psychological instability
  • Impulsivity
  • Hanging out with the wrong groups of people
  • Lack of education regarding triggers and relapse, or substance abuse in general.

Some experts suggest that anyone exhibiting four or more of these qualities identify the chance for chronic relapse.

Who Benefits from Chronic Relapse Treatment Plans?

Although chronic relapse can happen to anyone, certain segments of society exist that may have a higher risk of developing this condition. Individuals with any of the following situations benefit the most from relapse treatment plans:

  • Anyone with stressful events going on in their lives (health problems, unemployment, rocky relationships, etc.)
  • Underlying mental health conditions
  • Any victims of childhood sexual, mental, or physical abuse
  • Genetic history of substance abuse or alcoholism
  • A lower amount of dopamine receptors compared to the average number
  • Anyone who displays the traits of having an impulsive or addictive personality
  • You have fewer dopamine receptors compared to the general population

When individuals aren’t educated on any of the issues listed above, their chances of chronic relapse increase significantly. It’s important to seek treatment and craft a chronic relapse prevention plan.

Crafting a Chronic Relapse Prevention Plan

When people relapse chronically, it’s harder to pull themselves out of the cycle of unhealthy choices. Finding effective ways to cope with stressful circumstances helps reduce the likelihood of falling back into old habits. To break a pattern of relapse, clients must implement the following strategies into their relapse prevention plan:

Identify Triggers

Identifying triggers can help pinpoint moments when urges arise. Triggers can range from environmental stimuli to emotional states. Common triggers include boredom, anxiety, depression, loneliness, anger, frustration, and impatience. Learning to manage these triggers effectively can significantly decrease the chances of relapse.

Learn Skills That Promote Mindfulness

Mindfulness refers to the ability to focus attention internally instead of dwelling on external distractions. Practicing meditation and breathing exercises can increase awareness and lower stress levels.

Set Goals

Setting realistic goals that coincide with your values can boost self-confidence and motivate you to stick to your plans. Create actionable steps toward achieving your objectives and write your own success story!

Hold Yourself Accountable

Admit when you made a mistake and act immediately to correct it. Don’t blame others, and don’t dwell on regret. Take accountability for your actions.

Long Term Treatment and Long-Term Recovery

Long-term treatment leads to long-term recovery. Individuals who suffer from chronic relapse commonly need much longer stays at the inpatient facility of their choice.

The more education and counseling a client receives, especially in the right environment, the chances of avoiding relapse during the long-term increase significantly.

Lasting Recovery with a Chronic Relapse Treatment Center

At Best Rehabs In Arizonas, we’ve helped many clients achieve recovery from chronic relapse challenges. Our state-of-the-art facilities are comfortable and conducive to long-term comfort, which clients need for long-term residence for chronic relapse.

To find out about our specialized treatment plans for chronic relapse, contact a member of our admissions team today!

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