Meth abuse is a serious problem with many long-term consequences. Even though meth is also risky in the short-term, people who use meth for a more extended period can experience potentially permanent effects. This is why, in order to protect yourself or a loved one from the dangerous long-term effects of meth, it is vital to seek treatment from a meth addiction treatment program. Quitting meth can be difficult, but recovery is possible. For those seeking meth addiction treatment in Washington, a vibrant and supportive sober community can also help keep you or your loved one on track.
What Is Meth and What Does Meth Do to the Body?
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a potent stimulant drug that utilizes the brain’s existing neurotransmitter systems. These systems are complex and delicate, affecting many other bodily systems, processes, and organs. This is one of the reasons that using meth long-term can be so dangerous. Any drug that interferes with or alters the brain’s ability to communicate with itself and the rest of the body can have a wide-reaching impact.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Meth?
As an individual uses the drug over a period of time, there can be many unpleasant and dangerous effects. The public knows some of these, such as the potential for addiction, but some of them may surprise you. Some of the long-term effects of meth use are:
- Psychiatric illness – Meth use can lead to serious psychiatric issues such as paranoia, psychosis, and hallucinations
- Neurological problems – People can experience alterations in brain and nerve function, including tremors and tics
- Cognitive and emotional issues – Long-term meth use can lead to a decline in a person’s ability to learn and retain information, as well as personality changes and difficulties with emotional regulation
- Serious dental problems – Meth use can lead to a catastrophic decline in dental health, which in turn can cause many other health problems
- Anhedonia – Means that a person becomes unable to experience pleasure via normal means and can only receive positive feelings from using the drug
Are the Long-Term Effects of Meth Permanent?
Research has not yet shown whether or not quitting meth can fully reverse some or all of the long-term effects of meth use. However, not continuing to use the drug can stop the progress of these effects, keeping them from getting any worse. Some effects of meth use observed in imaging of the brain seem to recover after an extended period of abstaining from the drug, so the effects can likely improve over time.
Many of the social and emotional effects of long-term meth use can fully improve as an individual progresses in their recovery journey. Relationships can be repaired, trauma can be healed, and support networks can be rebuilt. Studies have shown that people who participate in a substance abuse treatment program are most likely to maintain their recovery, return to work or school, and rejoin family activities.
Quitting meth is possible with the proper treatment and support. Treatment can help address the underlying causes of meth use and help you develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with triggers and cravings. With treatment, you can learn how to live a life without meth and reclaim your life from addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with meth addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to support you in your journey to recovery.
Spokane Falls Recovery Center Can Help with Meth Addiction
At our treatment center in Spokane, Washington, our patients and clinicians work together to develop individualized treatment plans for each person. We understand that addiction is a disease that requires time and treatment to heal and that our patients are individuals that deserve compassionate care. If you or someone you love has been battling an addiction to meth, reach out to us today at 844.962.2775, and let us tell you how we can help you start your recovery journey.
