Many people believe that they can experiment with drugs like crystal meth without experiencing the long-term effects. However, even one dose of a substance begins to change your brain in ways that may lead to addiction development. In addition, you can become dependent on methamphetamines after using them one time. Meth withdrawal occurs when your body acclimates to the drugs and begins struggling to function normally without it.
How You Become Dependent On Meth
Many stimulants cause an increase in dopamine and serotonin when taken. These feel-good neurotransmitters are what cause feelings of euphoria.
In addition, crystal meth is a powerful substance made from cooking amphetamines with other toxic chemicals that intensify their effects. Depending on the dosage and method of consumption, the high can last for up to twelve hours.
Your body releases dopamine from participating in pleasure-inducing activities. For example, these might include eating, hanging out with friends, or exercising. This is a natural cognitive function that rewards you for positive behavior. Because dopamine levels increase when you take meth, your body perceives the drug as rewarding. Therefore, users may continue taking the drug to prevent positive feelings from dissipating.
Furthermore, as the effects of the drug wear off, users often feel like they’re crashing. Consequently, they may start feeling bad. The body isn’t getting the dopamine surge it craves, and users may have an intense desire to continue substance abuse.
What Is Meth Withdrawal Like?
Most of the meth withdrawal symptoms contrast with the euphoria felt when high. For example, meth can make you lose your appetite and stay awake all night. However, when you stop taking it, you may feel extremely hungry and tired.
Overall, meth users don’t often experience the flu-like symptoms that alcohol and heroin withdrawal cause. In the first 24 hours after their last dose, users may feel exhausted and anxious. Hallucinations are possible as well.
For the next week, previous users may crave the drug, have trouble concentrating, and experience painful headaches. They may also feel go through depression. This can be exacerbated by the weight gain that often accompanies quitting. Mood swings can continue for a few more weeks.
After a month, most people begin feeling better. They feel more balanced and are sleeping better. In addition, their energy begins to return.
Because the brain acclimates to the drug’s dopamine levels, users may find it difficult to feel happy for several months. Therefore, psychological support is crucial in order to help those in recovery manage depression.
What Affects The Meth Withdrawal Experience?
Everyone goes through different drug withdrawal symptoms. The length of time you continue using the drug, the amount taken each time and the method of consumption all affect withdrawal symptoms. The more your body acclimates to the ever-present dopamine levels, the more uncomfortable withdrawal may be.
However, nourishing yourself physically and psychologically during this time can improve the likelihood of success. Overall, you’ll need to learn how to connect with yourself, manage stress, and avoid triggers. Understanding these needs and transitioning properly to your daily routine can help you stay sober.
Choosing Rehab Services at Steps to Recovery
At Steps to Recovery, we offer a number of services to help you achieve sobriety. Our treatment programs include:
- Addiction interventions
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Outpatient program
- Sober living
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your concerns, answer questions, and help you learn to control your substance abuse disorder. Call us at 267.719.8528 to find out how we can support your recovery journey.