Simple Meth Facts—Prevention is the Best Approach

Here at Narconon UK, we are acutely aware of the dangers and risks of meth use and addiction. As a long-term residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation and education centre, we see all too much the devastating effects of meth use.

Here are a few easy key facts to remember regarding meth:

• Meth is one of the most addictive drugs. Its use is driven by its intense high and the compulsion to obtain more of the drug.

• Meth can be taken orally, snorted, smoked or injected, and is usually a white bitter tasting pill or powder.

• The destructive and toxic chemicals used in methamphetamine manufacture include such chemicals as battery acid, antifreeze, drain cleaner and lantern fluid.

• The potential damage and physical effects caused by crystal meth use can be permanent.

• Short-term side effects include increased wakefulness and physical activity, decreased appetite, faster breathing, rapid and/or irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and increased body temperature.

• Long-term side effects include extreme weight loss, severe dental problems (’meth mouth’), intense itching leading to skin sores from scratching, anxiety, confusion, sleeping problems, violent behaviour, paranoia and hallucinations.

• When hallucinating, the meth user can experience the sensation of ’meth mites’—imaginary bugs—crawling under the skin. The resultant picking at the skin causes observable sores.

• Meth, its use and acquisition, becomes the meth-addict’s single focus in life and it is common that the meth addict cannot see they are in need of help.

• A long-term treatment program addressing all aspects of addiction will be necessary in helping the methamphetamine addict recover.

Use these simple facts to educate anyone you think could be vulnerable to using meth. Prevention is the always the best approach!

You can also use these simple facts to help you spot when someone already has a meth problem. If you have found that someone you know is using meth, work on getting them help ASAP.

For more information on how we at Narconon UK can help, or if our rehabilitation programme is right for you, contact us