Methamphetamines Recovery Treatments in Toronto

Methamphetamines Recovery Treatments in Toronto

• Kate Pindera
• 27 Oct 2017

Methamphetamines are one of the most dangerous and highly addictive prescription medications in existence. They go by several different street names including meth, crystal meth, ice, and chalk just to name a few. These names are in reference to its white colour and powdery texture. Originally derived from amphetamines during the 20th century, methamphetamines were used as a prominent treatment method for bronchitis, stuffy noses, and other symptoms of the common cold. Methamphetamine was the main medicinal ingredient in most nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers. However, due to its highly emotionally, mentally, and physically destructive nature, especially the harmful effects it renders on the body’s central nervous system, methamphetamines have been banned in Canada and are rarely ever prescribed in the United States.

Despite this ban, there’s still an undeniably large portion of the Canadian population that manages to get their hands on this stimulant drug because it can easily be cooked using common household products. Unfortunately, many addicts have a hard time recognizing they have a problem and therefore don’t seek a methamphetamine recovery treatment in Toronto of their own. They need the help, encouragement, and support of their loved ones as they embark on a journey to recuperation.

What Does Methamphetamine Abuse or Addiction Entail?

Meth addicts exhibit very distinct behavioural changes and physical symptoms that can make their drug abuse or addiction apparent to those who are closest to them. Since homemade methamphetamines contain plenty of toxic chemicals, continued use will inevitably lead to an overdose and for this reason, it’s crucial to help the affected person seek help immediately if you recognize the following symptoms in them:

• Finding drug paraphernalia (i.e. used syringes, burned tinfoil, burned spoons, etc.) in the person’s home, car, and other commonly used areas;
• “Meth Mouth”—severe dry mouth, inability to produce saliva, missing or damaged teeth, severe bruxism (teeth grinding), as well as dental erosions, periodontal lesions, and numerous cavities caused by steady drug abuse and lack of proper oral hygiene
• Excessive scratching and scabbing of the skin using sharp objects. This is a result of psychological hallucinations in which the meth addict feels the strong sensation that there are bugs known as “meth or crank bugs” crawling under the surface of their skin. They tend to obsessively and desperately scratch at their skin trying to remove the “bugs”;
• Profuse sweating due to extreme increases in body temperatures leading to dehydration;
• Extreme weight loss in a short period of time due to increased lack of appetite and malnutrition;
• High blood pressure, heavy breathing, strong physical tremors, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, clenching of the jaw, constant nosebleeds, reproductive problems, impaired vision, sexual incontinence, and many more.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Methamphetamine Abuse?

Some of the long-term negative effects of methamphetamine abuse or addiction include drastic mood changes, anxiety, depression, paranoia, as well as hallucinations on top of all of the abovementioned physical symptoms. While continued and frequent use of methamphetamines can have severe and negative long-term effects on the brain’s functionality, particularly the parts of it that store memories and control emotions, some studies have shown that once an addict discontinues use, some of these faculties can be restored to their former glory or show great improvements over prolonged periods of time. Other physical symptoms can include reduced motor and speaking skills as increased dopamine levels in the brain cause an over the top euphoric feeling for the addict that slows down control of their faculties.

How Can You Help a Meth Addict?

Accepting and coming to terms with the realization that one of your family members or close friends might be suffering from prescription drug addiction can be one of the hardest things you’ll ever have to face in life, which is why there’s a whole host of helpful resources available for people in your position. As much as you’re probably frustrated and tempted to employ the tough love approach, it isn’t always the most conducive method of helping someone overcome a seemingly insurmountable addiction. In fact, it might even push them even further over the edge.

One of the worst things you can do is to approach the person while they’re in the middle of getting high or are already high because this can lead to a great deal of paranoia, aggression, and violence. It’s best to approach the situation in a calm and friendly manner after the person has come down from a high. Talk to them in an understanding tone, listen to their fears and concerns (because there’ll be quite a few of them). Even if what they’re saying doesn’t make any sense to you, always try to keep in mind that their fears and concerns are completely legitimate in their minds. Make it abundantly clear to the person that you care about them and only want to help them achieve a successful and long-lasting recovery for their own sake. Encourage the person to seek professional help such as counselling at a renowned drug rehabilitation and methamphetamines recovery clinic.

Effective Methamphetamine Treatment Services in Toronto

Freedom From Addiction is committed to helping people who suffer from severe methamphetamine dependency or addiction to get on the right track to long-lasting and successful recovery. We’re one of the only private methamphetamine treatment centres in Ontario that’s fully accredited by Accreditation Canada. All of our employees are licensed with years of experience working in their respective fields of expertise and our counsellors are all certified by CACCF. Contact us today if you or someone you know is suffering from a methamphetamine addiction or dependency. The sooner you start the treatment process, the sooner you can get on the road to recovery.