Understanding Crystal Meth Abuse

The use of crystal methamphetamine (meth) has been climbing for decades, and there’s no exception here in Boston. Between involvement in vehicular accidents, overdoses, or criminal charges, crystal meth has left a wake in the lives of the people in our community that is difficult to ignore. By getting to the heart of why people turn to crystal meth abuse, we can get those dearest to us the help they might desperately need.

For people or families searching for meth addiction treatment in Massachusetts, we’re here for you. At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we know the difficulties of living with an addiction to meth. There’s a shot at recovery for everyone. To learn what crystal meth is and what our meth addiction program can do for you, call us at 877.920.6583 or complete our online form today.

What Is Crystal Meth?

Crystal methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that has been around for over a century. It was first synthesized in Japan in 1919 and used medically to treat narcolepsy and obesity. During World War II, it was used by both the Allied and Axis forces to keep soldiers alert and energized. Since then, it has become increasingly popular as an illicit recreational drug with severe physical and psychological addiction potential.

Crystal meth is a colorless, odorless stimulant in rock-like shards resembling glass or ice. Other methamphetamines are not “crystal” in nature, instead taking the form of a white powder for inhalation or a thick, oily brown liquid for injection. Crystal reigns as the purest, and therefore the most potent version of meth, and is widely distributed nationwide.

Signs of Crystal Meth Abuse

Meth is one of the most addictive drugs on the market. That means casual users that can manage going months or years without using make up a small percentage of total meth users. As a result, crystal meth abuse is widespread and equally detrimental to one’s health. The most common effects of meth use include the following:

• Elevated heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Inflamed heart lining
• Hyperthermia
• Violent outbursts
• Paranoia
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Psychosis

Long-term use significantly increases the risk of stroke. Sustained pressure on the blood vessels in the brain due to meth use may cause them to burst. In cases of crystal meth overdose, the consequences can be lethal. Unlike overdoses on opioids, crystal meth overdose has no naloxone equivalent.

How Does Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment Work?

Crystal meth abuse is harmful at best and deadly at worst. The first step to finding treatment is identifying the problem at hand. Once it’s understood that meth use has to stop, implement a plan into action.

Our treatment center in Boston, MA, has all the facilities needed to ease into a sober lifestyle, with the support of professionals and other individuals in similar situations. We offer various approaches to rehab, including:

• Comprehensive rehab programs
• Intensive outpatient care
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Outpatient programs
• Gender-specific treatment
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

Treatment centers are the most consistent way of overcoming addiction. While it’s possible to sober up on one’s own, the medical toll that quitting meth can take can be even more of a health risk without proper medical care.

Find Crystal Meth Abuse Treatment at Greater Boston Addiction Centers

Providing numerous therapy programs aims to cast a wide net—some people may find that one program works while another doesn’t. Let our experienced team help you or your loved one determine the most effective treatment plan for a successful recovery. Greater Boston Addiction Centers staff has had their lives personally touched by the trials of addiction, and bringing those skills to you is our objective.

Crystal meth will continue to do untold damage to people all around us. Help us reduce the pain, case by case. Contact GBAC today at 877.920.6583 or complete our secure online form to learn about our meth addiction treatment program in Boston, MA.