Methamphetamines, or meth, are widely abused and can have devastating health consequences. Unlike some other addictive drugs, there truly is no “safe” amount of meth to use. Quitting as soon as possible is thus the best plan. Still, it’s also essential to identify the signs of meth withdrawal and get help immediately since this will significantly improve your odds of success. The caring team at The Right Step Hill Country is available at 1.844.675.1628 or by direct online message.
We look forward to connecting with you and telling you more about our effective meth detox programs in Wimberley, TX, or making a referral if needed.
What Are the Primary Meth Withdrawal Symptoms?
Though generally not deadly, detoxing from meth on your own can be highly unpleasant. Sadly, this means that many people who attempt to quit on their own end up relapsing when physical pain and cravings become too intense to resist. Getting professional rehab services is thus the better choice for most people working on quitting this highly addictive substance.
The length and difficulty of meth withdrawal vary somewhat based on factors like personal medical profile, duration of use, and method of imbibing. That said, the process can nonetheless be understood in two major phases.
The first phase of withdrawal is referred to as “acute,” and it usually begins within 24 hours of the last time a person uses meth. It generally doesn’t last more than 7–14 days with withdrawal symptoms including:
- Anxiety, irritability, and low mood
- Changes in sleep patterns, specifically insomnia followed by hypersomnia
- Fatigue and an overall lack of energy
- Weight gain
- Dehydration
- Lack of mental clarity
- Social withdrawal
- Cravings for meth
Post-acute withdrawal follows acute withdrawal and often lasts for an additional two to three weeks following the end of the first phase. The side effects of this second phase include:
- Mental health challenges such as mood swings, depression, psychosis, and suicidal ideation
- The temporary inability to experience pleasure
- Profound lack of energy and need to sleep
- Increased appetite
- Ongoing meth cravings
Formal treatment could help with these withdrawal symptoms.
Why a Formal Treatment Center Can Make a World of Difference to Long-Term Meth Recovery
Even though detoxing and withdrawing from methamphetamines can feel daunting, navigating this process is absolutely possible and worthwhile. Left untreated, meth addiction poses significant health risks, including brain damage, heart disease, severe tooth decay, gum disease, and increased risk of stroke, coma, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Undergoing detox and subsequent treatment in a qualified recovery center can give you or your loved one a significant leg up in getting free from this insidious substance. During detox, you’ll live in a specialized facility staffed by doctors and nurses who ensure your vitals remain stable, provide nutritious meals, and potentially administer pain medication to manage withdrawal symptoms.
Following detox, individual therapy is strongly suggested for long-term sobriety. Here, you’ll work with a licensed counselor to address the root causes of your drug use, develop strategies for managing triggers in the future, and identify and treat any underlying mental health concerns that may be present. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, and PTSD therapies such as EMDR can all be highly effective tools in the individual therapy journey towards a meth-free life.
Group therapy approaches like 12-step programs, or secular alternatives are similarly constructive during meth recovery. Being part of a community of supportive peers helps those in recovery develop accountability, grow in self-compassion, and combat any feelings of isolation or shame. Some group recovery activities may also take a holistic form, such as equine-assisted therapy or yoga therapy. In these cases, clients benefit from a full-body recovery approach that recruits physical health to support psychological and emotional well-being.
Learn More About Meth Detox and Treatment at Hill Country Near Austin, TX Today
Don’t wait to get the help you or your loved one deserves with meth rehab. The caring team at Hill Country is standing by to field your questions or assist you with enrollment in one of our effective treatment programs. Call 1.844.675.1628 or reach out online to begin the recovery journey today.