Addiction Info - Crystal Meth
(aka: Tina, T, Meth, Ice, Crystal, Speed, Chalk)Considered the most addictive drug on the streets today by many, Crystal Meth brings housewives, surfers, gay folk, teachers, nurses and doctors together – as addicts. Crystal Meth is an equal opportunity addiction.
A stimulant or an upper, Crystal can be used in many ways including sniffing powder, taking pills, mixing powder in juice; crystal can also be smoked or injected.
Crystal’s initial effect is euphoria – an intense long-lasting high.
Those using Crystal describe feeling like a “Super Hero”, as though they are invincible and able to do more in less time. Crystal’s short & long-term effects are many.
Crystal Meth use is damaging to the body and the consequences related to cocaine will often lead to permanent damage, addiction & death.
While each person responds differently to cocaine use, many short and long-term effects occur.
Frequent short-term use effects include:
1) Decreased appetite
2) Change in sleep patterns
3) Increased energy
4) Dilated pupils
5) Unexplained, oftentimes dramatic, weight loss
6) Increased heart rate & increased blood pressure
7) Elevated temperature
8) Nose trouble – sniffing, runny nose and/or nose bleeds
9) Staph infections
10) “Meth Mouth” – rapid decay of oral health
Many begin Crystal to get a quick pick-me-up, or to drop twenty pounds, or sometimes, just to have fun with friends. While these results may seem promising in the beginning, those prone to addiction will find it difficult to stop using.
While using, one may go for days without eating and if this behavior is continued – can lead to addiction. In increased quantities, Crystal will intensify the high. At these times, erratic & violent behavior may occur.
As crystal meth use becomes habitual, the cycle of craving and use ushers in lying, cheating, stealing, absenteeism at work and denying the use of Crystal. Other long-term effects oftentimes include irritability, hallucinations, dramatic mood changes, interrupted sleep patterns and general restlessness.
Other physical effects run the gamut from “Meth Mouth” and wide-spread skin sores to depression. External problems run from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama).
The things lost become more important and valuable.
The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.
