Methamphetamine is a highly addictive synthetic stimulant. It affects the central nervous system, resulting in elevated heart rate, breathing, temperature, anxiety, and paranoia. It is available in powder, pill, and crystal forms and is often administered by smoking, snorting, or injection. Pseudoephedrine, a component in over-the-counter cold medications, is often the primary substance used in the illegal production of meth. Methamphetamine may include many substances, making it very dangerous to ingest. In the case of addiction, Skyward Treatment Center offers comprehensive treatment programs. Explore the causes of meth addiction at our drug rehab in Houston, TX, and begin your journey to recovery.
Why Do People Use Meth? Key Causes Explained
Addiction is a brain disorder attributed to several factors. Addiction to meth, other drugs, or alcohol is thought to result from a combination of environmental triggers, genetic factors, and physical changes in the brain. The major causes and risk factors linked to meth addiction include:
- Genetic: Studies assert that genetics have a role in an individual’s susceptibility to drug addiction. Individuals with first-degree relatives who have drug abuse issues are at a heightened risk of acquiring an addiction if they use drugs. Additionally, some personality features may predispose an individual to drug misuse issues.
- Brain Changes from Heroin Use. Heroin addiction alters both the structure and function of the brain. It disrupts the brain’s communication system, interfering with how nerve cells send, receive, and process information. As these changes occur, individuals begin to lose self-control and may become unable to stop using the drug.
- Environment: Individuals exposed to drug addiction at an early age may learn to see substance misuse as a coping mechanism for life’s difficult circumstances. Moreover, encountering traumatic life situations may compel an individual to resort to drugs as a method of managing unpleasant emotions.
Risk Factors: An increase in risk-related factors is associated with a higher likelihood of developing an addiction to substances like meth.
- Family history of substance abuse
- Early exposure to drug use
- High levels of stress or chronic stress
- Peer pressure or social influence
- Lack of a strong support system
- Low self-esteem or poor coping skills
- History of trauma or abuse
- Living in high-risk environments
- Easy access to meth or other drugs
Protective Factors: A greater number of protective factors is associated with a reduced likelihood of developing a substance addiction.
- Strong family support and involvement
- Positive relationships with peers and mentors
- Healthy coping and problem-solving skills
- Good mental health and emotional regulation
- High self-esteem and self-confidence
- Engagement in school, work, or community activities
- Clear personal goals and future aspirations
- Access to mental health and addiction resources
- Stable home environment
- Participation in extracurricular activities or hobbies
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Methamphetamine
Good feelings are often a major driving force behind drug abuse. The deceptive sense of well-being or pleasure that methamphetamine provides can temporarily mask its harmful effects. However, this feeling is short-lived. Continued use of methamphetamine leads to a steady decline in an individual’s overall health. Here are the long and short-term effects of meth use:
Short-Term Effects:
- Intense euphoria or rush
- Increased energy and alertness
- Decreased appetite
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Hyperactivity
- Dilated pupils
- Increased body temperature
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Erratic behavior or aggression
Long-Term Effects:
- Severe dental problems
- Extreme weight loss
- Memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Mood disturbances
- Psychosis (paranoia, hallucinations)
- Heart damage or failure
- Liver and kidney damage
- High risk of stroke
- Risk of infectious diseases
Reclaim Your Life: Start Meth Addiction Treatment in Houston, TX at Skyward Treatment Center
Methamphetamine is an addictive substance that may result in severe consequences, including both short and long-term damage. For some individuals, usage may result in overdose or death.
Individuals with a methamphetamine addiction may seem incapable of regaining control over their lives. Fortunately, addiction treatment programs exist to assist individuals in overcoming their drug use. If you or a loved one need assistance in stopping methamphetamine misuse, reach out to Skyward Treatment Center in Houston, TX, today to explore rehab options.