Therapy Can Be Instrumental in Treating Methamphetamine Addiction

Using methamphetamine, or meth, over a long period of time can cause severe, potentially fatal mental and physical health issues. However, many users are conflicted and wrestle to overcome their addiction. Pursuing professional assistance for meth addiction may be difficult but it could potentially save your life or a loved one's life. Dr. Daniel Bober is a board-certified psychiatrist in Hollywood, FL, who understands the addictive qualities of methamphetamine and the proper methods required to treat stimulant use disorder. By coordinating with other mental health professionals, such as counselors, he can help patients achieve a successful recovery.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA)

How Meth Affects Users

Methamphetamine, also known as meth, crank, or speed, is a man-made drug that can be used as a powder or pill. Crystal methamphetamine is a particular form of the drug which resembles shards of glass¹. Meth may be consumed by inhaling, snorting, ingesting, or injecting the substance.

The drug is typically used in binging episodes with effects lasting as long as eight to 12 hours. Once the drug is consumed, high levels of dopamine are rapidly released¹. This response is typically not found in most rewarding activities and creates a feeling of unmatched euphoria. While cocaine has similar effects, meth remains in the body longer and has longer-lasting effects². However, once the feeling fades, users typically experience a crash that drives them to use again. For these reasons, meth is highly addictive. As reported in a 2014 study, nearly 569,000 individuals in the U.S. had used methamphetamines within the last month³.

Understanding Stimulant Use Disorder

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5®), categorizes methamphetamines as stimulants. Stimulants are characterized by several distinct qualities and produce³:

Increased alertness
Elevated blood pressure
Increased attention
Rapid heart rate
Increased energy
Elevated respiration

Stimulant use disorder is defined as a problematic pattern of amphetamine-type substance, cocaine, or other stimulant use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, manifested by at least two of the substance use disorder criteria within a 12-month period. These include cravings, development of a tolerance, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms³.

Consequences of Meth Abuse

Continued use of meth can have substantial negative consequences on your health. Over time, meth use can cause changes in the brain, including the dopamine system and the areas of the brain that manage emotion and memory. Other implications may include severe weight loss, anxiety, and serious oral health issues¹.

Several therapies have been proven highly effective in treating meth addiction.

Meth users also commonly experience psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, delusions of persecution, and hallucinations. This can often lead to violent behavior⁴. According to the National Institutes of Health, between 26 and 46 percent of those suffering from meth dependence experience psychotic symptoms⁴. Additionally, users who inject the drug are at especially high risk of contracting infectious diseases including HIV and hepatitis B and C¹.

How Is Meth Addiction Treated?

Unlike many other substance abuse disorders, no government-approved medications are available for treating meth addiction but there is extensive research underway. Therapies have proven highly effective for many patients suffering from meth addiction. It is also recommended that patients incorporate a support program, engage in non-drug related activities, and have family members involved in their recovery⁵.

Common therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management (CM) interventions⁵. CBT is a solution-based approach which focuses on identifying and changing behaviors⁶. This includes building skills for managing drug withdrawals and cravings. CM interventions are driven by providing tangible rewards for positive behaviors such as abstaining from meth use⁷.

Dr. Bober is dedicated to erasing the stigma of addiction and helping patients overcome their dependence on harmful substances. He can help you begin the process by evaluating your condition and recommending the best steps to restore your quality of life.

Protect Your Health

Seeking treatment for addiction can be difficult, however, it is imperative to protect your mental and physical health. Call Dr. Bober's office at (954) 967-6776 to schedule your consultation.