Meth Addiction Withdrawal
Undergoing meth addiction withdrawal can come with symptoms that are dangerous to go through alone.
Meth Addiction Withdrawal
Table of Contents
Understanding Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal
In 2020, over one million people reported having a methamphetamine use disorder. Methamphetamine, more commonly known as meth, is a high-addictive substance that can lead to long-term side effects.
As a result, undergoing methamphetamine addiction withdrawal is an important first step in treating methamphetamine use disorder and reversing negative symptoms.1
What Makes Meth So Addictive?
The reason that meth is so addictive is because it is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and the brain.
When used, meth interacts with certain parts of the brain to increase the production of a natural chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine is a type of “feel good” chemical responsible for emotional regulation and mood. However, because meth increases dopamine beyond natural levels, it can create euphoric feelings that are addictive.2
Why Does Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal Occur?
Meth addiction withdrawal occurs because the body becomes accustomed to the changes in brain chemistry that come with taking certain substances. This means that the body learns to function with elevated dopamine and thus has to undergo new changes when reverting back to natural levels. As a result, methamphetamine addiction withdrawal can occur.
Can Using Meth Once Cause Withdrawal?
Because even a single use of meth can result in an increase in dopamine, there will always be some form of withdrawal as the body begins to detox from the substance, although it will not be as severe as methamphetamine addiction withdrawal. The severity of withdrawal depends on several factors, including history of use.
There is little to no science to support that using meth only once will cause true withdrawal symptoms, although there may be some discomfort depending on the individual.
Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms and Stages of Withdrawal
Methamphetamine addiction withdrawal can lead to a multitude of different symptoms that vary from person to person. This experience can cause only discomfort for some, while potentially being dangerous for others. This is why it’s important that meth addiction withdrawal is undergone with the guidance of a medical professional rather than at home. One methamphetamine withdrawal symptom in particular, cravings, is especially dangerous, as it can lead to binge use and increase the risk for overdose.
Indications of Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal
Some of the symptoms for meth addiction withdrawal include
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Meth cravings
- Agitation
- Unpleasant dreams
- Increased appetite
- Loss of coordination
Stages of Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal
As with many other substance use disorders, there are stages to methamphetamine addiction withdrawal. These stages pinpoint necessary parts of recovery. Although there is an estimated timeline in which individuals may undergo these stages, the exact time depends on the individual.
- Evaluation: Evaluation is prior to the beginning of treatment, where needs and goals are analyzed. During this time, it is also important to learn more about the individual’s background in order to provide safe and individualized care.
- Stabilization: Stabilization is the process of detoxification and completing withdrawal. Although this step can be met with some discomfort, it is important. The stabilization period is where the body reverts to its natural state and the most severe meth addiction withdrawal symptoms have passed.
- Further Treatment: After stabilization, it’ll be time to seek further treatment. This could be in-patient or out-patient, depending on the needs of the individual.
Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal Timeline
There is no single timeline for recovering from addiction. However, there is a general timeline for methamphetamine addiction withdrawal. Withdrawal can be a long process, sometimes lasting up to a year after the last use of the substance.
After Two Days
The first forty-eight hours is typically known as the crash. This is when the body begins to undergo withdrawal and experience symptoms such as a decrease in energy and minor aches.
After 3-10 Days
The first few days, typically in the first week, are where symptoms are most severe. Symptoms peak around day four, where care is the most important and the potential for relapse is more prominent.
After 2-3 Weeks
After the first week, most physical symptoms will begin to subside. Most are usually gone by the second or third week. However, psychological symptoms may persist.
After One Month
After one month, the most notable symptom is the psychological cravings for meth. During this time, learning how to combat relapse is the most important factor in treatment.
How to Cope with Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms?
Although the most common way to cope with meth addiction withdrawal is through the guidance of a medical professional, there are some steps you can do yourself once it’s safe. These work to help balance the drop in dopamine that the mind is experiencing while also creating a healthier mindset.
Some of these techniques include:
- Exercising
- Avoid potential risks
- Distracting yourself
- Following a healthy diet
Medication and Therapies Used During Methamphetamine Addiction Withdrawal
There are also significant medical techniques that can be beneficial during meth addiction withdrawal. These vary, and some may be more beneficial than others for certain people.
Some of the medication and therapies used during meth addiction withdrawal and recovery include:
- Medication
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Contingency management
- Motivational interviewing
Get Help for Meth Addiction Withdrawal and Treatment Today
Meth addiction can cause a variety of negative long term side effects. These can reduce your day-to-day quality of life and make it difficult to connect with those around you.3
However, studies have shown that seeking treatment and undergoing withdrawal can help reverse some of the negative side effects and changes.4
How Can I Help Someone Going Through Meth Withdrawal?
The best way to help someone going through meth withdrawal is to be compassionate. Understand that meth addiction withdrawal can be uncomfortable, painful, and distressing, and offer your time and help when possible, without sacrificing your own mental health.Medicated-Assisted Treatment Program at Arrow Passage Recovery
There are several types of medications that can assist with meth addiction withdrawal. These can be used to reduce the discomfort felt during this time and increase the rate of a successful detoxification and recovery.
Contact Arrow Passage Recovery For Help
Meth addiction withdrawal can be a difficult time, especially due to the discomfort that comes with the withdrawal symptoms. However, this is not a process you have to undergo alone.
At Arrow Passage Recovery, you’ll experience recovery in a home-like environment while surrounded by a compassionate staff of medical professionals dedicated to bolstering your well-being. Here, you’ll find a variety of different types of treatments, including individual and group therapies.
Resources
- https://www.samhsa.gov/data/release/2020-national-survey-drug-use-and-health-nsduh-releases
- https://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/18/2/925.short
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-are-long-term-effects-methamphetamine-misuse
- https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/10report/chap02e.pdf
