Due to the high rates of overdose deaths related to its use, methamphetamine, or meth, is classified as one of the five deadliest drugs in the U.S. Moreover, meth and crystal meth are considered to be some of the most addictive substances because of the way they affect brain chemistry.
Unfortunately, recovering from meth addiction can seem almost impossible without the support of a meth rehab program. For outpatient addiction treatment in Omaha, Nebraska, call Northpoint Omaha today at 888.687.8014.
What Is Meth?
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. It is also known as crystal meth, ice, speed, or chalk. Meth comes in different forms, such as powder, crystals, or pills, and can be snorted, smoked, injected or swallowed. Invented in the late 1800s, meth was originally used in nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers. However, its highly addictive nature soon led to it being classified as a Schedule II drug in the United States. This substance boomed in popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, especially in rural areas.
Meth is made from various toxic chemicals such as battery acid, drain cleaner, and even over-the-counter medications like cold medicine. These harsh ingredients make meth production extremely dangerous, both for the manufacturer and those living nearby. Additionally, long-term use of meth can lead to serious physical and mental health issues.
Who Needs Meth Addiction Treatment?
Meth affects the brain similarly to other stimulants. It can create a sense of euphoria, increase energy, and make a person feel invulnerable. Conversely, it can decrease the amount of white matter in the brain, change brain chemistry, and contribute to brain damage. In fact, meth abuse can also cause cellular collapse within the brain if the internal support system becomes too damaged.
Individuals with meth use disorder are at a greater risk for accidents or violent acts that result in traumatic brain injury. Some of the damage caused by meth is non-reversible. For example, a loss of neurons may never be recovered.
This highly addictive drug can also damage the nervous system, weaken veins and arteries, contribute to memory loss, damage the heart, and increase the risk of stroke. Â
Anyone who suffers from an addiction to methamphetamines can benefit from the consistent support of a meth addiction treatment program to prevent irreversible physical and cognitive damage.
Signs of Meth Addiction
Recognizing that there is a problem is the first step in getting help for methamphetamine use disorder. Look for these signs of addiction:
- Paranoia
- Acne or sores on the face and skin
- Burns on the lips or fingers
- Confusion
- Intense scratching, complaints of itching
- Weight loss
- Rotting teeth (often referred to as “meth mouth”)
- Twitching or facial tics
- Emotional outbursts and mood swings
If you have noticed these signs in yourself or someone you love, it’s time to get help from a meth rehab center in Omaha, Nebraska.
What Types of Meth Rehab Settings Are Available?
Withdrawing from meth can lead to severe symptoms that cause mental and physical discomfort. Therefore, undergoing detox at a partial hospitalization program (PHP) is preferable for individuals who do not need full hospitalization.Â
Partial hospitalization provides patients with the safety and care of a hospital setting for a limited number of hours per day. Patients are not required to stay overnight, allowing them to return to their families in the evenings or to meet other responsibilities, such as school or work obligations.
Intensive outpatient care (IOP) is another option for patients who need medical services on a part-time basis. The therapies offered at an IOP meth rehab center may still be extensive but are required only a few hours per day and a few days per week.
Outpatient care provides the least amount of supervision. It is recommended for patients who have already gone through the detox process and need continued therapeutic support to remain in recovery.
In all cases, individuals participating in meth addiction treatment can expect:
- Medical treatment, if needed
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Skill-building
- Mental health evaluation and treatment support
- Stress management
- Aftercare
- Relapse prevention education and medication
Additional therapies such as art or music therapy, mindfulness meditation, and family therapy may also be available.
Call Northpoint Omaha’s Meth Rehab Program Today
Addiction recovery is never easy. Learning to manage stress and cope with triggers can help patients build a foundation for wellness that will last long after leaving a meth rehab center in Omaha, Nebraska. That’s our goal at Northpoint Omaha.Â
We strive to empower our patients to enjoy a life free of drug dependence. Contact Northpoint Omaha today by calling us at 888.687.8014 or reaching out online for more information about our meth rehab programs.