Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful synthetic stimulant classified as a Schedule II drug. While it’s highly addictive, it does have limited medical uses. Considered one of the most dangerous drugs out there, meth is easy to synthesize in a makeshift lab in a kitchen or basement, making it easy to acquire without a prescription. The side effects of meth are often severe and can become permanent with extended abuse. If you or someone you care about is misusing this drug, seek meth addiction treatment soon to end the cycle and start healing.
One of the long-term effects of meth is called meth psychosis. It’s relatively common among heavy users with long histories of meth addiction. Along with other symptoms, meth psychosis is a red flag that meth abuse has become a real threat to your health and longevity. Let The Right Step Houston help you rediscover mental and physical health without the challenges and dangers of addiction.
What Is Meth Psychosis?
Chronic, long-term abuse of meth can lead to a range of psychosis symptoms that are very similar to symptoms of severe paranoid schizophrenia. It can be risky and upsetting for both the person experiencing psychosis and others.
Some of the key signs of meth psychosis include:
- Paranoia that others are plotting against them
- Beliefs that are demonstrably far-fetched or disprovable
- Delusions of persecution
- Belief that outside events in the world are about them
- Hallucinations—hearing, seeing, and feeling things that aren’t real
- Chaotic thoughts
- Disordered speech
- Pressured speech
- Strange, occasionally violent behaviors
- Belief that they can hear others’ thoughts and that others can hear theirs
Meth addiction increases the risk someone will experience psychotic symptoms. Meth psychosis typically lasts from a few hours to a few days. If symptoms persist much longer than that, the diagnosis may be schizophrenia rather than meth psychosis.
Other Long-Term Effects of Meth Addiction
There are many other concerning side effects of methamphetamine dependence and addiction. Many are long-term, and some can be permanent.
Some of the symptoms of meth addiction, aside from meth psychosis, include:
- Scabs, sores, and bald patches on the skin and scalp – These are usually caused by compulsive picking and scratching
- Early aging – Caused by a meth-induced hyper-production of a substance that regulates cell aging
- Meth mouth – Decayed and broken teeth most common among meth smokers
- Severe weight loss – Caused by suppression of hunger and appetite
- Tweaking – This follows prolonged binges and is the body’s reaction to overstimulation by the drug
Tweaking includes days-long insomnia, dissociation, and psychological instability. It’s often during this stage that symptoms of psychosis will emerge, often starting with intense tactile hallucinations.
What To Expect From Meth Addiction Treatment
Meth addiction is a serious illness, and you deserve to get well in a supportive, secure environment where you’ll receive care that’s both professional and compassionate.
At The Right Step Houston, all our therapies are evidence-based. We provide meth addiction treatment on an inpatient or outpatient basis and can guide you to decide which would be best for you. All treatment begins with a medically supervised detox to help you withdraw from meth safely and with as little discomfort as possible.
What you can expect at The Right Step Houston:
- You’ll receive individual and group therapy to help you return to mental clarity, emotional balance, and secure sobriety.
- By having access to peers on a similar journey, you’ll benefit from the support and accountability they offer.
- If you have any co-occurring mental health challenges, we’ll address those with a dual diagnosis treatment plan.
- You’ll be supported in learning life skills to help you post-rehab. These might include self-care, goal-setting, time management, and self-discipline.
We’ve got your back. Reach out today to get started on your recovery.
Connect with The Right Step Houston and Begin Meth Addiction Treatment Today
Whether it’s meth psychosis or something else that starts you on the path to recovery, The Right Step Houston is ready to provide you with a personalized treatment that works for you. From evidence-based therapies to meaningful, wrap-around support from staff and peers, you’ll benefit from our expertise, professionalism, and empathy. Complete our online contact form or call 1.844.768.0169 to connect today.