Crystal Meth Addiction
After the Crack cocaine epidemic of 1980's and 1990's, many people thought there would never be another drug phenomenon as destructive... but then along came crystal meth. Made on a shoe string budget in homemade labs around the country, and delivering an incredibly powerful high, this man-made stimulant became an overnight sensation in the illicit drug community.
Crystal Meth dependence is now the fastest growing addiction being seen at drug treatment centers around the world. The addictive nature of the drug has led tens of thousands of people to extreme measures in search of their fix – including criminal behavior. The seriousness of the crystal meth problem is amplified because of demographic that is using most of the drug: teenagers and young people in their early 20's.
What is crystal meth?
Crystal Meth (short for "Crystal Methamphetamine") is a highly addictive, synthetic stimulant that produces powerful and long-lasting euphoric effect. The drug is cooked and distributed in a form that most closely resembles glass rock – hence the name, crystal meth. Crystal meth can be smoked or injected. The high experienced by the user can last up to 12 hours. Street names for crystal meth include "ice" and "glass".
The signs of crystal meth addiction
There are some drugs where it is difficult to determine whether an individual is "using" habitually (drug users are, by nature, secretive about their habit). Crystal meth however, has several physical symptoms that are unique to its use, and very difficult to hide. If someone you know is exhibiting any of the following signs, it is vital that you help them seek out a drug rehab program immediately.
- Bruised, battered or wounded face
- Dried skin
- Compulsive itching of the scalp
- Rotting teeth
- Large sores on the skin
- Nosebleeds
- Mouth sores
The fact that those who use crystal meth look like they have been through the fight of their life is no coincidence -- that is exactly the impact the drug has on the human body. Crystal meth addiction is a tough fight, and one that requires help from family, friends and drug treatment professionals to win.
Crystal meth and the gay community
Crystal meth has also taken a hold on the gay community. Gay men use the energy boost the drug provides to party for longer consecutive hours and to help release inhibitions within the club scene. Unfortunately, the behavior caused by crystal meth leads to unprotected sex, which helps fan the flame of HIV/AIDS in what is already a high-risk group for the infection.
Getting help for crystal meth addiction
Finding help for the individual with a crystal meth addiction is absolutely imperative. But individuals addicted to drugs do not often readily admit that they have a problem (this is especially the case with a powerful drug like crystal meth that overtakes the mind and body of the individual). If the individual's life appears to be spinning out of control, consider an intervention with the help of a professional. After intervention, rehab at a drug treatment facility is the next step. The rehab program will help that individual not only detox from the crystal meth (thus removing the physical dependence to the drug), but will also provide the essential counseling required to help change behaviors and make better decisions about drug use and lifestyle.
Michael's House is one of the nation's pre-eminent residential drug treatment centers. Located in the Palm Springs desert, Michael's House provides personalized care for individuals addicted to crystal meth and their families. For the strength and support needed to defeat crystal meth addiction, contact Michael's House today at 1-877-345-8494 .
