Crystal Meth Addiction
Of all the various types of addictions, crystal meth may be one of the hardest to kick. The latest numbers show that there are currently about 1.5 million crystal meth addicts in the U.S. today. Some believe this current situation should be classified as an epidemic that is growing in number day by day. Typically referred to as “ice” or “crank,” crystal meth is easily made, readily available and cheap. Until recently, the ingredients needed to mix up a batch of crystal meth could be easily obtained over the counter (OTC) at any local drug store or pharmacy. Recent legislation has limited the purchase of these ingredients which are typically found in OTC cold and allergy medications, but this has had little effect on the growing crystal meth epidemic.
One of the biggest problems with crystal meth is the ease with which users can get hooked and become addicted to the drug. Crystal meth has a direct affect on the dopamine levels in the human brain. The level of dopamine rises faster and may even cause levels to spike and rise sharply causing a strong tendency toward addiction. Just one puff from a meth pipe can cause a user to remain high for as long as 24 hours. This long-lasting high, extreme rush and high boost of energy are some of the reasons people become addicted to crystal meth even though the physical and psychological toll may be costly.
Perhaps one of the most common and disturbing signs of crystal meth addiction are the dried out skin, sullen facial expression and collapsed jaw present on most users. Some crystal meth addicts develop symptoms like “meth lice” which is caused by the drugs extreme drying effects on a users skin. These imaginary lice cause the meth user to continually scratch their face frantically and pick at their skin causing wounds and scars on the face. Crystal meth also dries out the gums and causes the teeth to rot prematurely and make the jaw appear as if it has collapsed.
Crystal meth takes a high psychological and emotional toll on users as well. Some users have reported long-lasting episodes of extreme paranoid schizophrenia and violent behavior leading to extreme suicidal tendencies. Some of the other emotional indications of crystal meth addiction include neglect of personal hygiene, irresponsible activity, child or spouse abuse and criminal activity to help pay for more drugs. If you see signs like these in your friends or family members, contact a local drug rehab facility or substance abuse interventionist as soon as possible.
Categorised as: Different types of addiction