When should a person with a meth use disorder get admitted into a meth detox center? The correct answer to this question is “as soon as possible” — but only if “right now” isn’t acceptable. Methamphetamine abuse is a serious and growing public health problem in the United States.
The drug is potent and addictive. Many recreational meth users experience a short “crash” period after they stop using. When people addicted to meth stop using, they experience a more uncomfortable withdrawal period that can last for several weeks. Some meth withdrawal symptoms can cause clients to feel pain. Some symptoms may even be debilitating. In many cases, the discomfort of withdrawal can drive the person to resume using. This situation can result in a downward spiral of repeated meth use.
For many people, by the time they realize they have a problem, they are incapable of overcoming the addiction on their own. To quit, many people with a meth use disorder go to medical detox programs. This is the safest way to treat psychological, emotional, and physical symptoms while cleansing the body of all traces of meth. If you’re looking for a meth detox and addiction treatment program, reach out to Midwest Detox Center. Contact us online or call 833.647.0392.
What Are the Psychological Effects of Meth Withdrawal?
Psychological symptoms of meth withdrawal could include:
- Mood swings
- Agitation
- Drug cravings
- Sleep disturbances.
These are in addition to any emotional or physical withdrawal symptoms. Instances of these effects can persist for multiple weeks.
The meth withdrawal process typically causes less discomfort than withdrawal from alcohol or opioid drugs. The intensity of someone’s meth withdrawal experience depends on the length and severity of their addiction and health. Medically supervised withdrawal with access to medically-assisted treatment (MAT) is recommended if the withdrawal symptoms are very acute. The particular period for withdrawal will vary, but the acute phase of it will peak around day two or three after last use.
The worst of withdrawal symptoms are typically over after four weeks. However, for some clients, psychological symptoms may continue for several months before they subside. Withdrawal-related anxiety and depression can last for even months to a year in some clients.
What Are the Emotional Effects of Meth Withdrawal?
Meth withdrawal is not likely to be physically damaging. However, if a client becomes highly emotionally unstable, there’s a chance that they will engage in self-harm.
During meth withdrawal, many clients can experience emotional symptoms such as the following, which can last for weeks or months:
- Being paranoid
- Feeling a lack of motivation
- Feeling anxious or depressed
- Having intense meth cravings
- Having low energy levels
Why Should Recovery Begin at a Meth Detox Center?
When you are aware of the emotional effects of meth withdrawal and the psychological effects of meth withdrawal, the need for a meth detox center is obvious. However, you might be thinking that it could be more affordable and easier if you try detoxing by yourself at home. Most medical professionals don’t recommend doing this — instead, they suggest that you go to a health care facility and go through medical detox.
While there are no specific medications designed for helping meth detox, there are several different medications that can help to manage symptoms that occur during withdrawal — including the following:
- Bupropion: This drug is an antidepressant that is typically used in nicotine addiction treatment programs. However, studies show that it helps reduce symptoms of meth withdrawal, specifically for those that have used crystal meth. Bupropion can decrease significant meth cravings felt by clients.
- Modafinil: This medication is a mild stimulant used to treat narcolepsy or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). When used during meth withdrawal, modafinil can increase energy, reduce disruptive sleeping patterns, and enhance concentration.
- Paroxetine: This is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that’s also an antidepressant medication. Some studies show that doses of paroxetine can relieve cravings in crystal meth users going through withdrawal.
- Mirtazapine: This drug is an atypical antidepressant. Studies also show that mirtazapine may also help to prevent relapses and setbacks during the meth withdrawal process.
Learn More About Midwest Detox Center’s Programs and Services
Looking for meth detox and addiction treatment programs? Reach out to Midwest Detox Center by contacting us online or calling 833.647.0392.
