Addiction comes in different forms—and the fastest-growing form of addiction in the United States is addiction of methamphetamine, also referred to as meth. Meth has long been touted as the most dangerous substance on Earth, and it is not hard to understand why. Not only is it highly addictive, but it is also extremely accessible. Meth is a synthetic drug—completely man-made—and is comparatively cheap, hence its prevalence in communities across the country.
Meth addiction can have profoundly hazardous effects on the body, mind and soul—and over time it can prove deadly. Meth creates a strong sense of dependence, and withdrawal from it can be challenging. However, with the right treatment, recovery is entirely attainable. At Seacliff, we offer individualized treatment for meth addiction, and our goal is to provide individuals with the foundation they need for lifelong wholeness and healing. We invite you to embrace this message of hope, and to come to Seacliff for freedom from meth addiction.
What Happens When People Abuse Meth?
Meth is classified as a stimulant, and enacts a powerful effect on the central nervous system. Those who use meth are tricked into thinking they have unlimited energy and stamina; this produces a “high,” both in terms of energy and mood, yet at the same time meth depletes the body’s reserves of energy, which can ultimately compromise vital organs and bodily functions. In the beginning, the meth user will experience energy and euphoria, both of which ultimately give way to depression, violent paranoia, and lasting brain damage. These are grim effects, and are what makes this message of hope so urgent: Treatment works, and recovery is possible.
What Comes First: Drug Addiction or Mental Illness?
Often, addiction—including meth addiction—will occur at the same time as a mood disorder or a mental illness. These are called co-occurring conditions, and might include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and beyond. The relationship between addiction and mental illness is complicated, and it can be hard to determine which causes the other. Sometimes, addiction may arise through self-medication— for example, meth may start as a way to cope with the symptoms of depression. More often, addiction and mental illness arise due to the same abnormality of the brain. Ultimately, the relationship varies from one person to the next, but Seacliff’s dual diagnosis care can help you discover the root of your problem.
One of the difficulties in co-occurring disorders is that they muddy the diagnostic process. When addiction is present, most symptoms will be attributed to that—and as such, a serious mental illness may lurk just below the surface, undetected and untreated. This can cause the mental health disorder to deepen or worsen over time.
The solution to this is to seek dual diagnosis care, which will look past the symptoms and look instead for the underlying issue. If you are not sure whether you have a co-occurring mental health disorder, we urge you to contact Seacliff today to inquire about dual diagnosis.
If you or a loved one is struggling with these symptoms, seek treatment right away!
We cannot overstate it: Treatment works. Those who live in the grip of meth addiction can find freedom—and the process starts with clinical intervention. The Seacliff team will help you develop a plan for lifelong recovery. Start the process by contacting our team today. Choose recovery, and a life apart from meth addiction and mental illness.