The rock crystal form of methamphetamine is known primarily by the name “crystal meth.” This name comes from the shiny appearance of the substance which resembles crystals, like quartz. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, there are many names that users of this highly addictive drug have come up with over the years. Some of the names applied to methamphetamine in general are:
- Chalk
- Crank
- Glass
- Go-fast
- Speed
- Tweak
- Ice
- Trash
- Poor man’s cocaine
Crystal meth is created through an incredibly dangerous cooking procedure, and more recently, through the “shake and bake” method that does not require heat, but it can be just as explosive when the manufacturer makes a mistake. According to a Fox13 News Report from Memphis, Tennessee, two parents of a toddler risked her life, and theirs, by using the new method to create crystal meth in the same room as their daughter.
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Addiction Changes Behavior
No matter what name an individual chooses to call crystal meth, the effects of addiction are the same. Addiction changes how a person thinks and addiction to methamphetamine, in particular, can change how he or she feels as well. Because of the way in which crystal meth increases dopamine production and blocks dopamine absorption in the brain, someone who uses the drug over a long period of time can suffer between two states. When they are using the drug actively, they are euphoric and have an excessive amount of energy. They will sometimes stay awake for days at a time – not eating or sleeping – with a compulsive desire to use the drug. Afterward, when the inevitable crash ensues, they will sleep and care little for their immediate surroundings, up to and including their desire to be good parents.
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Treatment Can Change Behavior Too
The National Institute on Drug Abuse has long studied and helped to fund research into the epidemic of drug abuse in the United States and around the world. According to the experts at the NIDA, one of the most effective treatments for addiction to CNS stimulants like crystal meth or cocaine is the model of cognitive behavioral therapy. This method of treatment for addiction is a therapy that partners a substance abuse professional with a recovering addict for a period of time determined by the treatment plan, generally between six and 20 sessions, according to the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.
While taking part in this type of therapy, the recovering addict will address elements of the disease of addiction, and the recovering addict will learn new ways to react to his or her thought patterns. It is a here-and-now type of therapy that provides tools for dealing with situations surrounding addictive patterns, so when the individual returns to their life outside of treatment, they are better able to withstand the stress of daily life and the challenges that go along with it.
Other Treatments Provide Additional Tools and Resources for Recovery
According to research conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles and published by the NIDA, taking part in a 12-step program can increase the effectiveness of drug and alcohol treatment programs. The study showed that individuals who participated in a 12-step support group prior to entering rehab stayed in rehab longer, and those who incorporated the 12-step model into their recovery plan had longer instances of sobriety between relapses.
Don’t Stop at Detox
In some cases, an individual who has found himself addicted to crystal meth may not be willing to admit they have a significant problem. He or she may stop using the drug and gut through the withdrawal period for a few days or even a couple of weeks. They may think they are “cured.” They may have the best intentions to not return to using.
Unfortunately, detox is not a treatment plan by itself. Addiction is a far-reaching disease that can affect many aspects of your life, and experts agree that a comprehensive treatment plan is the very best way to stay in long-term recovery.
At Axis, in addition to providing the most up-to-date evidence-based treatment options, we believe in treating the whole person. This includes completing an assessment to find any co-occurring conditions that might derail otherwise effective treatment practices. We also provide holistic treatment processes that include spiritual counseling, acupuncture, sweat lodges, massage, yoga and herbal therapies.
When you make the decision to stop using crystal meth and get help for the disease of addiction, you need professionals on your side who truly care about you and the issues you’re facing. When others believe in your abilities to find success in recovery, it may be a little easier to start believing in yourself again. Give us a call today to get on the path to a sober future.
