Meth abuse remains such a devastating problem in the United States that some are calling the meth epidemic. According to the 2015 National Drug Threat Survey, 33% of respondents reported meth as the highest drug threat in their areas. Furthermore, due to the plunge of cocaine availability in recent years, methamphetamine use is continuing to rise. As a result, many cities are suffering from the meth epidemic.
Yet, there is help available for meth abuse and addiction. Memphis Recovery Centers’ compassionate team has years of experience giving people the tools they need to end meth abuse and addiction. However, the most essential tool for battling addiction is knowledge of what meth is and why it is particularly addictive.
What Is Meth?
Meth is short for methamphetamine. The drug carries several names, including crystal meth, crank, speed, and chalk. People can use it in different ways, such as injecting, smoking, or orally taking the drug.
When people take meth, they feel a rush of energy and happiness. For this reason, they consider it to be a party drug. However, meth is a stimulant that destroys the body in several ways.
Factors Leading to the Meth Epidemic
Various factors can lead to an epidemic of certain drugs. Regarding meth, the low price has brought an increase in sales.
Studies show that meth isn’t usually the first drug that people start using. Prescription pain pills are often their first-time drug. As money becomes tight because they spend it on feeding addiction, they look for cheaper alternatives. Although pain pills and meth affect the body differently, all people with addiction want is to get high.
Meth is also something that people can make themselves. It’s common for users to set up their meth labs as an even cheaper alternative to buying from dealers. When people have their own meth labs at home, there is a high chance of chemical spills and even explosions. The process of manufacturing meth uses several combustible materials, which can become volatile. Unfortunately, when a home meth lab explodes, other people than the person with meth addiction are affected.
The Dangers of Meth Abuse and Addiction
Meth addiction causes numerous health problems across the nation, harming both physical and psychological states that include:
- Psychotic behavior
- Brain damage
- Heart damage
- Memory loss
- Aggression
Another negative effect of meth abuse and addiction is the scratches on the skin. Meth users often report feeling itchy and sometimes recall feeling as though there were bugs under their skin. As a result, meth users scratch their arms and legs until there are bloody sores and lesions.
Meth also causes dental issues such as rotten teeth from “meth mouth.” For example, meth causes dry mouth, which wears down tooth enamel. Teeth rot from meth use because it rots people’s teeth.
The second reason that meth use causes dental issues is that meth users tend to clench and chatter their teeth. Experts say that clenching the jaw is a direct result of the stimulating effects of meth. However, in the end, the meth users chip and erode their teeth.
Don’t Let Meth Ruin Your Life
It’s important to stand up to the meth epidemic that is sweeping the country. At Memphis Recovery, we can help you fight back against meth addiction. In fact, we offer evidence-based substance abuse treatment that is perfectly suited to your specific needs. Our Memphis Recover team wants your experience in recovery to be uplifting and empowering.
Some of theeffective recovery programs at MRC include:
- Residential rehab
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Alcohol rehab
- Dual diagnosis and trauma therapy
Don’t let meth interfere with your goals, hopes, and dreams. Find out how the right rehab center can make all the difference in your fight against addiction. Reach out to our friendly staff today at 901-272-7751, or contact us onlineto see how we can help.
