Many people glamorize methamphetamine for its ability to produce bouts of energy and feelings of euphoria, but not enough emphasis is placed on the potential short and long-term dangers of this drug. In 2016, researchers conducted a study to explore how methamphetamine tends to become used – and they found that out of society’s perception of normalcy, how easily accessible it is, and how popular it has become amongst people looking to feel “good”, it’s become much more a drug of choice than originally thought.
Short-term effects tend to include an increased heart rate, loss of appetite, disturbed sleeping patterns and violent behavior, alongside hallucinations, psychosis, convulsions and more (especially when high doses are taken). Meth is highly addictive, and it’s unlikely that a person would only use this drug once or twice without beginning to develop some sort of dependency on it. The long-term damages are irreversible, and that’s one of the most tragic outcomes of this addiction:
- Permanent damage of blood vessels to the heart and brain
- Liver, kidney and lung damage
- If the drug has been snorted, damage to tissues in the nose
- Malnutrition
- Severe tooth decay
- Respiratory problems if the drug was smoked
- And so much more
In 2018, Dr. Matthew Tull emphasized that methamphetamine is often the drug of choice for people who are significantly stressed or have gone through trauma. For many, there’s a belief that this substance use is improving symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it could be that while a person feels numb, this particular drug brings back positive emotions – even if it comes at a long-term cost.
Some of the damage done by meth addiction is irreversible, but a person can still restore their lives after seeking help. Don’t wait any longer to speak with a professional from Avalon Malibu. Your life matters – and the sooner you seek help, the greater your chances of optimal healing and restoration.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
