The present global drug addiction and abuse epidemic continue to increase worldwide. A recent United Nations report from the Office of Drugs and Crime states that the amount of synthetic drugs produced and distributed has risen dramatically, especially methylamphetamine, which continues to be misunderstood.
In this article, we’ll discuss what crystal meth is and its effects.
What Is Crystal Meth?
Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant. It’s a white, odorless powder with fine shards or shiny blue-purple crystals. It’s a powerful and addictive stimulant that affects the brain.
Over the years, stimulants such as amphetamine-like crystal meth were being produced and sold under many brand names, such as Benzedrine. These drugs were used to treat various health conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, narcolepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and alcoholism.
Crystal meth produces alterations in behavior that may be very similar to those produced by amphetamine. The drug also produces a sense of confidence and a feeling of optimism or euphoria, similar to amphetamines. However, crystal meth impacts the human brain far more strongly than that of amphetamine.
What Are The Implications Of Crystal Meth?
Over the past few decades, meth has become one of the most popular party drugs for its stimulating euphoric effects on its users and addictive properties. Like cocaine, meth causes an initial burst of energy and a false sense of happiness in users, giving them the endurance to party and, in some cases, engage in sexual activities for extended periods.
Users are more and more likely to develop a tolerance to these drugs as they become more comfortable with them, as shown by taking the drug at an increased pace and in back-to-back quantities to reproduce the original buzz. Many use crystal meth through binging to help them take the drug frequently for many hours for several days, sometimes even without regular meals or sleep.
Understanding other factors that may influence a person to develop a crystal meth addiction is important.
What Are The Causes Of Addiction To Crystal Meth?
The substance and method of specific substance use will influence the advancement of drug dependence, as well as these factors:
Environmental
Relationships and individuals around your personal life will impact the likelihood that you may be involved in substance abuse. Neglectful parents, abuse during childhood, and peer pressure can enhance your likelihood of engaging in high-risk behavior and experimentation with drugs or alcohol.
Exposure
A young individual’s susceptibility to addiction may also depend on their age when they begin a behavior. This development may also result in a person’s susceptibility to mental health disorders, largely because addictive behavior may lead to these disorders.
It is paramount not to forget that having these risk factors is not a guarantee that a person will fall victim to addiction. Not everyone with these risk factors will become addicted because it develops differently in each individual.
Genetics
One risk for the development of an addiction is genetic. Up to half the risk of a person turning to drugs or alcohol is related to genetics, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. A history of addiction in a family member may mean that the individual is at greater risk for it.
What Are The Effects Of Addiction To Crystal Meth?
Crystal meth primarily affects the brain by flooding it with dopamine, a natural chemical that instigates feelings of pleasure. When first-time users take crystal meth, this mechanism causes extreme happiness and euphoria that can lead to addiction.
Apart from the false sense of well-being, crystal meth can also cause:
Short-Term Effects:
- High blood pressure
- Rapid breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Decreased appetite
- High body temperature
- Increased wakefulness
Long-Term Effects
- Violent behavior
- Extreme weight loss
- Sleep problems
- Severe dental problems
- Severe skin problems
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
Summing It Up
Crystal meth use crosses genders and generations. Yet, playing with crystal meth poses a considerable threat because it often leads to extended physical withdrawal symptoms, which may lead to death when compounded. Fortunately, crystal meth recovery, though hard, is possible.
Those who suffer from crystal meth addiction will need to seek professional help. The good news is that various treatment methods are available. If you or a friend is afflicted with crystal meth dependency, reaching out for aid is essential as this dependence develops rapidly. Various programs, rehabilitation techniques, and support may be necessary to recover from crystal meth addiction. By choosing the right program, therapy, and support, it is possible to overcome crystal meth addiction fully. Visit our website here or contact us to start on your sobriety journey and be free from addiction.
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