How to Stop Meth Abuse – and what to expect while quitting

If you or a loved one is addicted to meth, you will know that it is a seemingly never-ending trip through hell. Meth’s vice-like grip is both physical and psychological and impacts every area of life.

Quitting is the only option.

What is meth? It is a powerful stimulant that robs your ability to experience normal pleasures of life and you lose memory functioning. Meth addicts also undergo brutal and often appalling physical transformations that make them look like the living dead. The addict may desperately want to stop the cycle of meth abuse, but the drug’s pull is very strong. The meth addict feels lonely, defeated and trapped by his or her addiction.

Quitting meth is not easy, but with help recovery is definitely possible.

Stopping methamphetamine use is a tough journey, but worth it. You can do it, as many have done. With professional support, you will be able to break free from this deadly affliction and start on a road of joy and happiness.

Medical Detox: The First Step to Quitting Meth

The first and possibly the most critical step in quitting methamphetamine is undergoing medical detoxification at a reputable de-addiction facility or hospital.  While the withdrawal symptoms of meth may not be as severe as heroin or alcohol detox, it can still be a highly uncomfortable and can even be life threatening, depending on the history of use and the physical condition of the addict.

Common withdrawal symptoms of meth may include:

  • chest pains
  • breathing problems
  • anxiety/ paranoia
  • mood swings
  • weight loss
  • risk of strokes, seizures and heart attacks

The detox process may last up to two weeks at the least. During detoxification, the medical team will employ various methods to minimize the symptoms and risks associated with meth withdrawal. A psychiatric assessment is also recommended to diagnose any co-occurring disorders such as depression, bipolar, anxiety which may impact the recovery process.

It is important that the addict is physically, psychologically and emotionally stable to be able to enter the next phase of treatment.

Treatment for Meth Addiction

Drug treatment is basically psychotherapy delivered through a variety of systems such as counselling, group sessions, psycho-education, CBT, Yoga and such methodologies.

Through such therapies, the addict will develop life coping skills needed to prevent relapse and maintain the momentum of recovery. Relapse triggers need to be identified, which may vary from person to person, and coping mechanisms have to be learnt. Inpatient drug treatment centres specialize in inculcating coping skills in a safe and protected environment. The ambience is recovery-oriented with round-the-clock monitoring and therapeutic support.

Since each addict is different, a good rehab will design an individualized treatment plan specifically created for each addict’s unique issues and goals.

A mix of therapies such as cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) and contingency management-type therapies in individual and group settings are extremely beneficial to addicts attempting to stop meth abuse. Such therapies help in identifying problem behaviors and thinking and provide incentives for positive changes. Mindfulness practice is proven to hugely beneficial in bringing emotional balance and spiritual insight in addicts. Individual counselling sessions are helpful in establishing rapport with the counselor and individual goal setting.

Adequate duration of stay in the drug rehab is also important – currently the ‘gold standard’ is 90 days, though a longer stay shall only maximize the chances of long-term abstinence. Some addicts may experience a recurrence of withdrawal symptoms in early recovery (often referred to as called the wall’) about 6 weeks after quitting meth. Other symptoms (known as PAWs or Post Acute Withdrawal symptoms) may arise long after initial withdrawal. Such symptoms often trigger craving and subsequent relapse. Therefore, if the addict stays in an inpatient treatment program, he or she shall have the benefit of support to overcome such blocks in early recovery.

After-care Support

After treatment at a drug rehabilitation facility, the addict needs to locate resources that will provide support and encouragement for continued recovery. Recovery is a process that requires continued inputs from various sources. Some useful ones are:

  • Intensive follow ups at the drug rehab
  • Transit or half-way houses
  • Narcotics Anonymous fellowships
  • Having a sponsor in the 12 step fellowship

Do You Want To Stop Meth Abuse? Contact Hope Trust

Meth addiction is frightening and life-threatening. In countries such as US, long-term effective treatment can also be dauntingly expensive.If you are looking for a safe, effective treatment option, call or email Hope Trust. The facility is experienced, empathetic and economical.

Call +91 98490 69609 or mail us at info@hopetrustindia.com

Act now. Before it’s too late.