Crystal Meth & Methamphetamine Addiction Treatment

Meth is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Some forms of meth may include a pill form, a capsule form or a powder. Meth can be smoked, snorted or injected. Crystal meth produces a fast and powerful high that lasts much longer than other stimulants like cocaine. The addicted person becomes used to the feeling very quickly and feels abnormal without the stimulant effect, resulting in early onset addiction. On the street, methamphetamine is known as crystal, speed, and crank. The smokable form of methamphetamine is known as ice or crystal. Many facilities that treat meth addiction consider it one of the most difficult. Methamphetamine stays in the body for a longer period than other drugs and recovery can last from six to eight months for casual users and a year or more for heavy users.

Unlike heroin, crack cocaine and other known drugs, crystal meth may be one of the biggest threats facing us today. Crystal meth is readily available (as many of the drugs involved can be bought over the counter and home labs can be set up cheaply); it is relatively inexpensive, highly addictive and can have far-reaching consequences, both on the body and mind. The rise in Crystal Meth use can also be attributed to some of the benefits it affords users. Meth is widely used by party goers as an intensive rush and energy-booster to enhance their partying experience. It has also found use as an appetite suppressant to lose weight.

The problem lies in the ease with which a casual user can get hooked on the drug. Unlike cocaine, for instance, meth directly affects the release of dopamine - a substance that increases cravings. Frequent spikes of dopamine can lead to a strong addiction bordering on the obsession. Crystal Meth can take its toll on both the body and mind.

Physical Risks

• The most disturbing sign of meth addiction is the classic meth-user look of a wounded face and a collapsed jaw.
• Because Meth is a super Sudafed, it dries out the skin completely.
• Addicts begin to believe they are suffering from “meth lice”. This leads to frantic scratching of the face using fingernails - a process generally known as picking. Picking can lead to serious self-inflicted wounds, especially in the face.
• Meth dries out the gums completely and leads to the grinding of the teeth and the jaw collapsing inward.
• Flushed appearance
• Boundless energy
• Severe weight loss
• Excessive sweating

Emotional and Behavioral Risks

• Suicidal tendencies
• Paranoid schizophrenia
• Violence
• Crime
• Child neglect
• Irresponsibility
• Marriage, family and societal problems
• Loss of employment

At Treatment Alternatives we understand the unique difficulties and challenges presented by Crystal meth and methamphetamine addiction treatment. We understand just how complex it can be to get clean from these drugs. Our licensed, credentialed and professional staff is ready to assist in a safe, comfortable and structured environment. We can develop an individualized treatment plan designed specifically to ensure the best possible chance for success. Our expert clinical team will provide the care and attention needed to get to heart of the problem and start you on the way back to a new life in sobriety.

We offer affordable drug rehab alternatives and addiction treatment programs that work. Crystal meth and methamphetamine addiction will require extended long term care and we have a number of different options available, the most appropriate choice will be determined between the individual, family and therapist.  We blend an assortment of modalities to renew the mind, body and spirit while restoring relationships and building confidence. Some of our methods include:

• Individualized recovery plans
• Group, individual and family therapy sessions
• Established clinical and twelve step methodologies
• Holistic rehab treatment including yoga, expressive art therapy, recreation therapy and life skills training
• Multi-level housing for people at any stage of the treatment process
• Separate housing facilities for men and women
• Extended Stay housing for graduates