Signs of Meth Addiction
The signs of meth addiction take a toll on the user both physically
and emotionally. It works directly on the brain and spinal cord by interfering
with normal neurotransmission. Neurotransmitters are chemical substances
naturally produced within nerve cells used to communicate with each other
and send messages to influence and regulate our thinking and all other
systems throughout the body.
The main neurotransmitter affected by methamphetamine is dopamine. Dopamine
is involved with our natural reward system. For example, feeling good
about a job well done, getting pleasure from our family or social interactions,
feeling content and that our lives are meaningful and count for something,
all rely on dopamine transmission.
The signs of meth addiction include more than the destruction of a person's
ability to experience pleasure naturally. Chronic use can create a tolerance
for the drug, leading a person to try to intensify the desired effects
by taking increasingly higher doses, taking it more frequently or changing
their method of getting high.
To support their habit, Meth users often participate in spur-of-the-moment
crimes such as burglaries. Several signs of meth addiction include feelings
of agitation and feeling wired. Addict’s behavior becomes unpredictable
from moment to moment. They may start doing the same thing over and over,
like taking apart and reassembling bits of machinery, or continuously
picking at imaginary bugs under their skin.
Meth is referred to by many names including "meth," "speed
.. crank," "chalk,"- "go-fast," "zip," and "cristy." Pure
methamphetamine hydrochloride, the smokeable form of the drug, is called "L.A." or
- because of its clear, chunky crystals which resemble frozen water - "ice," "crystal," 64glass," or "quartz."
Decreased appetite and possible weight loss |
Rotting teeth |
Picking at skin "Meth Bugs" |
Dilated Pupils |
Paranoia |
Decreased interest in appearance |
The signs of meth addiction include but are not limited
to:
increased alertness
sense of well-being
paranoia
intense high
hallucinations
aggressive behavior
increased heart rate
convulsions
extreme rise in body temperature (as high as 108 degrees which can cause brain
damage and death)
increased sweating/body odor
uncontrollable movements (twitching, jerking, etc...)
violent behavior
insomnia
impaired speech
dry, itchy skin
premature aging
rotting teeth
loss of appetite
acne, sores
numbness
disturbed sleep
excessive excitation
excessive talking
panic
anxiousness
nervousness
moodiness and irritability
false sense of confidence and power
delusions of grandeur leading to aggressive behavior
uninterested in friends, sex, or food
aggressive and violent behavior
severe depression
dilated pupils
