What Are the Causes of Meth Addiction?
Meth is an example of a drug that is known by many different names. Some of the common street names for meth include crystal, chalk, or ice. Regardless of the name that you use, methamphetamine is an incredibly addictive drug that typically comes in a yellowish or white powder. It’s a substance that can be swallowed, injected, snorted, or smoked and results in a quick high that triggers feelings of euphoria. However, from the first time that you use meth, this drug begins to rewire your brain, and your brain responds by craving more of the substance which results in addiction. What many people ask, though, is what causes meth addiction?
The answer to this question isn’t always as straightforward as one may think. There are several different factors to consider including:
Genetics
Many people are genetically predisposed to the susceptibility of falling prey to addiction. This means that if a close family member struggles with some form of addiction, there is an increased chance that you, yourself, may also suffer from addiction at some point in your life.
Environmental
When you’re exposed to substance abuse through a friend or family member, that environment makes you much more prone to developing your own issues with addiction. This is one of the leading reasons you need to be conscious and cautious of your environment when you commit to treatment.
Physical
Did you know that you can develop an addiction to meth after using this substance just once? The appealing part of the high tricks your brain into wanting more of this substance, resulting in continued cravings.
Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction
Now that you understand more about what causes meth addiction, it’s just as important to understand the signs and symptoms of this serious condition. If you have concerns that you may be addicted to meth or you are worried about a friend or a loved one, here are just a few telltale signs of substance abuse:
Cravings
When a person is addicted to meth or any substance, they will go through a period of craving if they do not have this substance within a specific period of time. If the addiction is severe enough, a person could experience cravings within mere hours from the last time they consumed it.
Issues with finances
It should come as no surprise that meth addiction is not only something that may consume your life but can also consume you financially. It can cost individuals hundreds if not thousands of dollars to maintain their meth addiction. If you or a loved one is experiencing serious financial hardship as a result of their substance abuse, it’s time to look at treatment options.
Health issues
Within a short period of time, meth addiction is something that can cause a person to experience serious health concerns both physically and psychologically. You must connect with a treatment team as soon as possible to avoid these serious health concerns that could ultimately be fatal.
Co-Occurring Disorders and Addiction Therapy As Part of Recovery
You should never overlook the effects of your overall mental health and well-being on your addiction. Every day, numerous individuals turn to addictive substances as a way to self-medicate due to their meth addiction. For instance, a person who is unknowingly struggling with depression or anxiety may use meth or another type of substance as a way to ease or numb what they are feeling. At Muse Addiction Treatment Center, we try to identify mental health issues or concerns so that you can take advantage of co-occurring disorder treatment. This type of approach allows you to address both your mental health issues as well as any addiction issues.
Part of this approach revolves around participating in different addiction therapy forms to determine your addiction’s root cause. This is also helpful in determining what causes meth addiction in your particular situation. There are several forms of addiction therapy that we offer at Muse including:
- Individual therapy
- Behavioral therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
At our drug rehab center Los Angeles, therapy is just one aspect of the comprehensive treatment experience we provide. You will also have access to various amenities that enhance your stay and support your recovery journey.
In Beverly Hills, our drug rehab facility Beverly Hills recognizes the uniqueness of each person’s path to recovery, offering both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. This flexibility allows you to choose the option that best aligns with your individual needs and circumstances. Our approach to addiction treatment is deeply personalized, with a primary focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of your substance abuse. We are committed to helping you not only overcome your addiction but also heal from it, fostering long-term recovery and well-being. At our Los Angeles facility, you’ll find a supportive environment where your healing and growth are our top priorities.
Following detox, you will have the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive inpatient or outpatient treatment program. The main difference between these two programs revolves around where you will live when you’re in treatment. For example, clients that opt to work through an inpatient program will have the chance to live on the campus of our treatment facility whereas our outpatient clients will be able to live at home. Not only that, but clients that opt to take advantage of our partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient treatment will be able to work, go to school or see to other important responsibilities around their treatment schedule. Remember that you can always begin your recovery in an inpatient program and transition into an outpatient rehab program anytime.
Long-Term Effects of Meth Addiction
There are countless long-term effects associated with meth addiction, making it all the more important for you to address your substance abuse sooner rather than later. Just a few examples of the long-term effects of meth addiction can include:
- Financial ruin
- Dramatic changes to your personal appearance
- Homelessness
- Issues with your job
- Permanent brain damage
- Problems with relationships
- Health issues
There is always the possibility that you could experience an overdose as part of your substance abuse. In some cases, this overdose is something that is accidental and happens as a result of a person continuously chasing the “high” that comes along with meth addiction. However, meth can also change the overall functioning of your brain which is something that can cause a person to become incredibly depressed and potentially suicidal which can cause them to take their own life in the process.
Learn what happens to your body when you overdose here:
Get Help for Your Meth Addiction
When you’re ready to get the help, you need to overcome your meth addiction, the Muse Addiction Treatment Center team is here for you. We understand the impact of addiction on your life, so we go out of our way to provide you with the flexible treatment options you need. Regardless of whether you need to begin your recovery in a detox program or you’re ready to jump into a treatment program, you can take comfort in the fact that our team will be there for you and with you every step of the way. Don’t wait another moment to get the help that you need. Get in touch with us by calling (800) 426-1818 today to start your journey and for more information.
