Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant drug. It is potent and highly addictive. People using meth may quickly develop physical dependence and addiction. It can be very challenging to quit on their own.

Most people with meth addiction require intensive treatment programs to overcome it. People may start treatment in an inpatient setting before transitioning into an outpatient rehab program.

This article will outline what to expect during meth addiction rehab.

If you or a loved one are struggling with meth addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn about our addiction treatment and recovery plans. You can also ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment at our treatment facility.

What is Meth?

Meth is a slang term for an illegal stimulant drug called methamphetamine. Meth is a potent and highly-addictive stimulant substance. Other slang terms for meth include:

• Crystal meth
• Stovetop
• Ice
• Hot Ice
• L.A. Ice
• Shaved Ice
• Hawaiian salt
• Blue
• Crank
• White
• Shards
• Zip
• Speed

Illegal drug manufacturers make methamphetamine by mixing household chemicals and medications. This dangerous profess creates a powerful, dangerous drug.

Users typically ingest meth by inhaling or smoking it. Some people may take it by mouth. Using meth is dangerous and addictive any way people consume it.

The Effects and Risks of Meth Abuse

Meth is a potent stimulant drug. This means that it increases central nervous system (CNS) activity. After someone ingests meth, it reaches the bloodstream and travels to the brain.

The side effects of meth develop quickly and may include:

• Euphoria
• Appetite loss
• Increased blood pressure
• Increased energy
• Elevated heart rate

People may also experience unpleasant or dangerous side effects, including:

• Loss of coordination
• Anxiety
• Poor concentration
• Memory problems
• Paranoia
• Depression
• Confusion
• Delusions
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• Depression
• Aggression or violent behaviors

Repeated meth use can lead to tolerance. Tolerance occurs when a person’s body adjusts to a certain amount of a drug. After a short period meth use, people may find they require larger doses to get the drug’s desirable effects.

Ongoing meth use can lead to physical dependence and addiction. People who become addicted to meth can have serious health complications, including:

• Skin infections, scars, and wounds that can’t heal
• Malnutrition
• Lung and breathing problems
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Extreme weight loss
• Dental problems, including severe decay (meth mouth)
• Chronic runny nose
• Severe damage to sinuses and nasal passages

Meth abuse can cause serious, lifelong health problems. People who abuse meth must seek addiction treatment as soon as possible to begin working toward long-term recovery.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

Check if my insurance covers rehab

What to Expect During Treatment for Meth Addiction

Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs are available in inpatient and outpatient levels of care. Treatment for meth addiction typically begins with an inpatient detox program. After completing detox, people may transition into outpatient care.

Meth addiction recovery typically occurs in stages. Here is what to expect from each stage of the treatment process.

Assessment

Those seeking treatment for meth addiction will likely undergo an assessment before starting rehab. This assessment will gather information about:

• Past and current substance abuse
• Mental health and medical history
• Family history
• Willingness to change
• Insurance information
• Lab testing
• Physical examination

This information will help the treatment team recommend the most effective treatment options.

Detox

A detox treatment plan consists of therapies to help people manage meth withdrawal symptoms, such as depression, insomnia, and intense cravings.

Treatment might include:

• 24/7 supervision, support, and access to treatment
• FDA-approved medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
• Mental health therapies
• Emotional support, including individual counseling and support groups
• Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy

Round-the-clock supervision and care will ensure people remain safe and comfortable throughout the meth detox process.

Treatment

After completing detox, people must continue treatment. Meth users may continue treatment in a residential program or move to an outpatient rehab program.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Mental health treatment
• Cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), contingency management, or other behavioral therapies
• Individual counseling
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Relapse prevention education and coping skills
• Holistic therapies like exercise, nutrition counseling, mindfulness, and more
• Medications and medical treatment

Depending on their needs, people may spend 30, 60, 90 days or more in treatment. Many people complete an inpatient rehab program before transitioning into an outpatient rehab.

Aftercare

Addiction recovery is not a final destination. People must stay active in their recovery after completing treatment. People work with their treatment team during rehab to create an aftercare plan. An aftercare plan may consist of:

• Medical and mental health treatment
• Individual counseling
• 12-step meetings or other group support
• Sober living
• Other types of addiction treatment

These and other activities can support each person’s lifelong recovery journey.

Find Meth Addiction Treatment in San Antonio

If you or someone you love struggles with meth addiction or SUD, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Methamphetamine
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Patterns and Characteristics of Methamphetamine Use Among Adults — United States, 2015–2018