An Overview of Meth Detox
Due to the extreme psychological dependence that meth induces in users, withdrawal from the substance can be very difficult and often results in additional use, setting up a highly destructive cycle. According to some studies, fewer than 7% of users are able to break the cycle on their own. For many individuals, assistance in withdrawing from the drug is necessary to prevent relapse and to safely monitor the process of meth detox. The intensity of detox depends on the duration and level of use, and clearing the detox process is the first step in overcoming a meth addiction.
Detox from low-intensity use
When an individual discontinues minimal use, he or she will often experience depression and fatigue. These symptoms may present weeks or months after discontinuing use. Some health professionals believe this is due to the release of meth residues in the body, prompting a delayed detox response. There is a high incidence of relapse at this point in attempt to offset the discomfort. Because individuals quickly develop a tolerance to meth, the risk of increasing use to high-intensity levels after a relapse is significant.
Detox from high-intensity use
High-intensity meth users seek a steady supply of the drug and will often binge, stringing days of use together. In high-intensity use, greater amounts of the drug are consumed to achieve an equal high. When the drug runs out, or if an individual attempts to abstain, withdrawal begins. The initial stage is referred to as tweaking.
Meth tweaking
This is the initial stage of detox and will cause individuals to feel depressed and agitated. Many users will take more meth in attempt to feel better, but are unable to recover the high desired and as a result, become aggressive or violent. This stage can be dangerous for the user and those around them.
Meth detox
Eliminating meth from the body usually takes several days. The detox symptoms can be severe and medical supervision is recommended to help an addict through the process. There are several therapies that can assist the body in purging the toxic chemicals found in meth. The following is a list of common detox symptoms:
- Drug cravings
- Extreme fatigue
- Nausea
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Aggression
- Insomnia
- Sweats
- Hyperventilation
- Convulsions
- Irregular heart beat
Detox at Alta Mira
Alta Mira makes creating a safe and supportive environment for detox a priority. Situated on private grounds in a beautiful location, Alta Mira believes that a natural meth detox assisted by holistic therapies is the most effective way to gently transition clients to sobriety, without using invasive methods. Furthermore, by allowing the body to withdraw naturally and without using alternative drugs, Alta Mira clients stand a much greater chance of breaking addictive cycles and sustaining sobriety. Following detox, clients receive counseling and additional therapies to positively reinforce the choice in living free of meth. The healing from meth addiction is complex and one that Alta Mira is qualified in treating comprehensively, empowering clients to reclaim their lives.
Contact Alta Mira
To learn more about the specific treatments that Alta Mira provides in the recovery from meth addiction, please contact us at (866) 922-1350.