When it comes to recognizing the signs someone is on methamphetamine, we know it’s a tough and emotional topic to approach. Whether you’re concerned about a partner, friend, family member, or even yourself, it’s important to remember that noticing changes and being aware of possible warning signs are the first steps toward getting the support you need.
Methamphetamine, usually just called meth, is a stimulant. It can affect a person’s behavior, appearance, and overall health.
Before we dive into the specific signs and symptoms, it is important to approach the situation empathetically and with understanding. Recognizing these signs isn’t about labeling or judging. Instead, it’s about caring for the well-being of people who are important to us.
We’ll explore some indicators that could suggest methamphetamine use to provide you with the knowledge you may need to navigate a challenging situation with compassion and confidence.
How Methamphetamine Affects People
This addictive stimulant impacts the central nervous system and comes in different forms, including powder, crystals, and pills. It’s similar chemically to amphetamine, which is used to treat ADHD, but meth’s effects on the brain and body are a lot stronger.
When someone uses meth, it triggers dopamine to be released into their brain at high levels. It’s a neurotransmitter that’s a big part of the reward system, regulating when we feel pleasure, motivation and a general sense of well-being.
Since meth causes such an unnatural surge in dopamine levels, it leads to a powerful euphoric feeling or high that can last for several hours.
Along with the effects of meth on the brain, other effects that are physical and psychological can include:
- Feeling more alert and energized. When people use meth, they might feel a sudden rush of energy and be unable to sleep. They can sometimes stay awake for days.
- Rapid weight loss. Meth suppresses appetite, so weight loss can not only happen quickly but be significant.
- Skin problems. Users may develop skin sores because of what’s sometimes called meth mites. Essentially, meth can create the sensation that bugs are crawling under the skin. This leads to obsessive scratching, and then the sores can develop.
- Tooth decay. Also known as meth mouth, it results from dry mouth, the acidic nature of the drug, and poor dental hygiene.
- Mental health issues. Long-term meth use can lead to aggression and violence, anxiety, paranoia and hallucinations.
Why Is Meth Use Increasing?
There was a decline in meth use in the 2000s, but the drug has seen a resurgence in recent years.
Factors that contribute to this include the increased availability. Meth production and distribution have become more advanced, which makes the drug cheaper and more accessible. The influx from large-scale Mexican labs has driven down prices in the U.S. and increased availability.
The meth being produced today is more potent than in the past, which means a higher addiction potential.
As the opioid crisis continues, some users have turned to meth either as an alternative or along with opioid use.
Behavioral Signs of Meth Use
Methamphetamine can drastically change someone’s behavior. Some of the behavioral signs to look for include the following:
- Extreme hyperactivity: A person who’s using meth may have sudden, extreme energy bursts, and they may seem active, talkative or restless.
- Erratic and unpredictable behavior: Meth can lead to mood swings, aggression and paranoia. A person using it can even become suddenly violent without an apparent reason.
- Obsessive focus: Meth can cause someone to become overly focused on trivial tasks, often for hours on end.
- Loss of interest: Meth can cause a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Instead, they might focus on obtaining and using the drug.
Social Signs Someone Is Using Meth
Social interactions and relationships can provide clues someone is using meth. These include:
- Isolation and withdrawal: Meth users tend to withdraw from social activities as well as friendships and family relationships. They can isolate as a way to hide drug use or because their behavior puts a strain on relationships.
- New or unfamiliar friends: The use of methamphetamine can introduce a person to a new and unhealthy social circle with relationships centered around drug use.
- Financial problems: The need to finance a meth habit can cause unexplained financial struggles. A person might start borrowing money more often or engaging in illegal activities like theft.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Signs might include neglecting school, work or home obligations.
Physical Signs Someone Is on Meth
Meth can severely impact someone’s physical appearance and health, and these signs can be the most apparent and alarming in many cases.
We talked about them above, including significant weight loss, skin sores and picking, and meth mouth.
Other physical signs include rapid eye movements, dilated pupils, increased sweating, and body odor.
Less Obvious Signs of Meth Use
Along with what’s above, some of the less apparent or well-known signs of use can include:
- Unexplained cognitive decline and short-term memory issues. This could mean forgetting conversations, having trouble focusing on tasks, or not following through with plans, even when not actively using the drug.
- Unusual sleep patterns. Along with insomnia, after a meth binge, a person might crash and sleep for extended periods. It can sometimes last more than 24 hours.
- Emotional flatness: Meth can dull motions over time, leading to emotional flatness or a lack of response in situations that would provoke a reaction normally.
- Depression or anxiety: Someone who uses meth might go through periods of deep depression or anxiety, especially when not using it.
- Pale, washed-out appearance: Even without sores, the skin of a meth user might take on an unhealthy tone because of lack of sleep and poor nutrition. Meth use can also speed up the aging process and cause premature wrinkles, sagging skin and a generally aged appearance.
- Cravings for sweets: It’s somewhat common for meth use to trigger cravings for sugary foods and drinks. This is partly because meth suppresses appetite, and that leads to low blood sugar levels when the high wears off.
- Changes in voice or speech patterns: During or after meth use, in particular, a person might speak quickly or have trouble articulating words.
We provide comprehensive, compassionate support for people struggling with methamphetamine addiction and their families. We also provide a safe and supervised detoxification environment, personalized treatment plans, and access to our experienced, expert staff. Our programs include holistic and integrative therapies, aftercare, and ongoing support so no one is alone in their recovery journey.
We’re committed to helping people break free from meth addiction and rebuild their lives. Contact us to learn more about the expertise, care and resources available to help begin the sobriety journey.
