Addictive Illegal Substances: Methamphetamines (South Coast Counseling)

Drug Abuse: Meth Addiction | South Coast Counseling

If your loved one has a meth addiction, you should inform yourself on the history and effects of the substance to best understand this form of drug abuse.

Often times, you will hear about how methamphetamines, also known as “meth,” are a big problem in today’s world. In fact, there are more than 24.7 million people addicted to crystal meth, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Because this is such a widely-abused drug, it is possible that you have a loved one who has slipped into the awful cycle of meth addiction. If your loved one has a meth addiction, you should inform yourself on the history and effects of the substance to best understand this form of drug abuse.

The History of Meth

Though it was initially discovered in 1887, the first use of synthesized amphetamine was not until 1919, during World War I. It has been said that this kind of meth was used to keep tank drivers awake during the war. In the 1960s, this substance was used more commonly by athletes, students, gangs and truck drivers.

In 1980, crystal meth was invented because the government put Phenyl-2-propanone, amphetamine’s main component, under federal control. Meth cooks discovered that this new version of the substance was more potent than the first. Users quickly took to the new substance and cartels quickly formed, supplying meth to the West Coast of the United States. Though after decades of trying to slow the trafficking and making of methamphetamines, this illegal substance has still spread to all parts of the nation, sparking a wave in drug abuse.

The Consequences of Meth

Meth addiction can cause a myriad of health issues, which can be further worsened by continued use. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, short-term effects of this drug abuse can include, but not be limited to: increased activity, decreased appetite, euphoria, increased respiration, irregular heartbeat and even hyperthermia.

Long-term effects of meth addiction can have an effect on the brain, both physically and mentally. For instance, meth abusers may experience memory loss and hallucinations, while there are shortfalls in their thinking and motor skills. Additionally, violent behavior may spark from meth use, as well as mood disturbances and destructibility. Weight loss and severe dental issues can also be associated with long-term meth addiction.

How Treatment Helps

Because long-term meth abuse has such detrimental health consequences, it is important that you seek help for your loved one who may have a Meth addiction Southern California. Not only can this kind of drug abuse come with serious health issues, it can also land your loved one in trouble with the law.

Drug abuse rehab would be able to help bring your loved one out of their meth addiction. With varying methods of therapy, those with a drug abuse problem would learn how to control their addiction, so that they can live a healthy lifestyle once again. They would be provided with the tools they need in order to re-enter the world, void of meth.

To learn more about how the professionals at South Coast Counseling can help you or your loved one with their meth addiction Meth addiction Southern California, please visit our website or contact us.