Author: Alex Thompson
Researchers Find A Way To Help People With Meth Addiction Avoid Relapse : NPR
We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.
Why is Meth so Addictive?
For the first time, researchers say they have found a medical treatment that helps some people trying to recover from meth addiction. The study was published today in the New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers say they have identified the first medical treatment that shows promise in helping some people recovering from methamphetamine addiction.
Tips for How to Quit Smoking Meth, from the Experts
Detox centers and rehabilitation facilities provide around-the-clock medical supervision to those undergoing detoxification. Nurses and doctors on staff will ensure you are adequately hydrated and have the proper nutrients, allowing you to detox healthily and safely. Personal physiology and environment are also important factors for meth withdrawal. People with substance use disorder (or family history) are likely to experience more challenges in withdrawing from methamphetamine. Attempting to quit alone or within an environment with addictive triggers can also make the process more challenging.
- Our expert team is here to support you in recovery with out meth addiction treatment program.
- The meth withdrawal process can be difficult, painful, and dangerous without professional medical supervision.
- This is crucial for anyone coming off meth, especially in the weeks and months after initially quitting.
- You don’t have to go through this journey alone—you just need to know who you can count on for support when you really need it.
- During detox, meth withdrawal symptoms are often uncomfortable experiences, and they are typically a significant reason people cannot quit meth on their own.
- If you’re concerned about your drug use, help is available.
Common Meth Withdrawal Symptoms
Methamphetamine withdrawal is a slow, difficult, but enormously valuable process that may last several days or weeks. For many, it is physiological symptoms — anhedonia and the resultant depression — that cause relapse as they seek relief from the emotional distress. The psychological dependence resulting from prolonged meth use is powerful, so the person in withdrawal will often experience an intense craving for the drug. People recovering from meth addiction should continue therapy after completing meth treatment. Recovering addicts may also move to a sober living home — a residence where people practice a sober lifestyle. Cravings fade, energy increases, and mood, confidence and optimism improve.
Relapse is common among people recovering from drug addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 40 to 60 percent of those in addiction recovery experience a relapse after completing rehab. Besides getting physical exercise regularly – something that will prove beneficial during and after meth withdrawal and treatment – be sure to set goals. Having things to look forward to will go a long way toward reinforcing the desire and commitment to being free from meth addiction. Physical exercise is scientifically proven to help recovering drug addicts regain their health.
What Does Meth Do To The Brain?
After the initial withdrawal process is complete, creating a plan for further treatment is vital. Detoxification is one major step toward rehabilitation, but the journey to health and wellness continues long after this phase. Many addiction professionals believe recovery is never truly finished.
Meth and Mental Health Disorders
Exercise helps reduce drug cravings, one of the main causes of relapse. It’s not necessary to go from sedentary to a serious athlete to realize the benefits of physical activity. Taking a walk in the outdoors is an effortless way to incorporate physical activity into everyday routine.
In recovery you probably identified some potential triggers or situations you think may result in you wanting to use again. It’s important to identify your triggers in order to avoid them and reduce the risk and intensity of cravings. First, those who have taken meth for longer periods of time will usually withdraw for longer. Higher regular doses of meth affect the length of withdrawal in the same way. You can also reach out to American Addiction Centers (AAC) to learn about our addiction treatment facilities and programs located across the U.S. Our caring admissions team is available 24/7 via our confidential helpline at to answer questions, hear your story, and help you check insurance coverage.
This means that we are providing you with the best possible care and are compliant with the health and safety standards outlined by the Joint Commission. Try one, two, or all of the options above until you find what works best for you. And most importantly, remember that you are a work in progress and constantly evolving. You don’t leave recovery a perfect human—you leave as someone who has gained a new perspective and is working towards long-term goals. Have patience with yourself and find ways to relax and de-stress when you hit a rough patch.