Meth Addiction Treatment on St Simons Islands, Georgia

Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug. It can be smoked, injected, inhaled or taken by mouth. It has many street names, such as speed, meth and chalk. Methamphetamine hydrochloride, the crystal form inhaled by smoking, is referred to as ice, crystal, glass and tina.

Methamphetamine affects the brain and can create feelings of pleasure, increase energy and elevate mood. Abusers may become addicted quickly, needing higher doses more often. Adverse health effects include irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and a variety of psychological problems. Long-term effects may include severe behavioral health disorders, memory loss and severe dental problems.

For help with methamphetamine addiction, contact Saint Simons By-The-Sea.

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Information provided by the National Institutes of Health.

Methamphetamine addiction can manifest in a variety of physical and behavioral signs. Physical signs may include:

• Rapid weight loss
• Dental problems (“meth mouth”)
• Skin sores from picking
• Increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleep)
• Dilated pupils

• Behavioral signs can include:
  • Increased activity and talkativeness
  • Agitation and irritability
  • Paranoia and hallucinations
  • Anxiety and nervousness
  • Violent or erratic behavior
  • Neglect of responsibilities
  • Social isolation
  • Financial problems
  • Obsessive behaviors

Helping someone with a meth addiction can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take:

• Learn about meth addiction: Understand the signs, symptoms, and the effects of meth on the brain and body. This knowledge will help you approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
• Express your concern: Talk to the person in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Express your concerns about their health and well-being, and explain how their addiction is affecting you and others.
• Avoid enabling: Do not make excuses for their behavior or cover up their mistakes. Enabling only prolongs the addiction and prevents them from facing the consequences of their actions.
• Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries about what you are and are not willing to tolerate. This may include refusing to give them money, letting them stay at your house, or driving them around when they are under the influence.
• Encourage treatment: Offer to help them find treatment options and support them through the process. This may involve researching treatment centers, making phone calls, or accompanying them to appointments.
• Seek professional help: If the person is unwilling to get help, consider seeking advice from a professional counselor or interventionist. They can provide guidance on how to approach the situation and may be able to help facilitate an intervention.
• Take care of yourself: Helping someone with an addiction can be emotionally draining. Make sure to take care of your own physical and mental health. Seek support from friends, family, or a support group.
• Be patient: Recovery from meth addiction is a long and difficult process. Be patient and understanding, and continue to offer your support even if they relapse.

It’s important to remember that you cannot force someone to get help. Ultimately, the decision to seek treatment must come from the person struggling with addiction. Your role is to offer support, encouragement, and resources, while also protecting your own well-being.

If you or a loved one is in need of substance use counseling, including meth addiction, in Southern Georgia, St Simons By-The-Sea is here for you. Call us today at 800-821-7224 or contact us to get the mental health help you need, now. 

If you are experiencing sexual abuse and need help, please call 9-1-1.