If you or someone you love has been struggling with meth use, you may have noticed changes in mood, behavior, and mental health. The long-term effects of meth go far beyond the immediate high—it can take a serious toll on the brain, leading to paranoia, delusions, and even psychosis. But you don’t have to go through recovery alone. At Promises Washburn House, we’ve been helping people struggling with life’s stresses since 1896. Whether you’re looking for dual diagnosis treatment or support for a loved one, the path to recovery starts with a single step.
What To Know About Meth Abuse
Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant. It affects the central nervous system (CNS), creating an intense rush of dopamine that leads to euphoria, increased energy, and heightened focus. But these effects come at a steep price.
Meth use has been linked to severe changes in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for emotion and memory. A recent study reports that up to 40% of people using meth experience psychotic syndromes and symptoms—including agitation, violence, and delusions.1
What Are the Signs of Meth Abuse?
Meth abuse doesn’t just impact the person using—it also affects their loved ones. If you’re concerned about someone, here are some warning signs:
- Sudden and extreme weight loss
- Skin sores from excessive scratching
- Increased paranoia or erratic behavior
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Intense mood swings or aggression
- Dilated pupils and rapid eye movement
If you or someone you love shows these signs, reaching out for help can make all the difference.
What Are the Troubling Long-Term Effects of Meth Abuse?
The long-term effects of meth abuse can be devastating, not just physically but mentally. Over time, meth abuse can have severe impact on the body and mind. It can damage dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to violent mood swings and increased aggression.
One challenging aspect of chronic methamphetamine use is the experience of delusions such as parasitosis or formication—an intense and distressing sensation of being infested with or bitten by bugs, often referred to as “meth mites.” This is a common and deeply unsettling symptom reported by those who use methamphetamine heavily. Studies of those seeking treatment for methamphetamine dependency indicate that about 40% have experienced formication.2
Meth use also raises the risk of stroke, heart disease, and cognitive decline. Physically, it can cause extreme weight loss and severe dental issues, commonly known as “meth mouth.”
Can Meth Abuse Cause Psychosis?
Yes, meth and psychosis are closely linked. Long-term meth use can trigger a condition known as methamphetamine-induced psychosis, which includes:
- Hallucinations – Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there
- Extreme paranoia – Believing others are out to harm you
- Delusions – False beliefs that seem completely real
- Aggression and agitation – Sudden outbursts or violent behavior
For some, these symptoms go away after stopping meth use. However, for others, the damage to the brain is long-lasting.
How To Handle Psychosis From Meth Use
If you or a loved one is experiencing psychotic symptoms due to meth use, seeking professional help is essential. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay calm and offer support – Arguing with someone in a psychotic episode won’t help. Try to reassure them and encourage treatment.
- Avoid triggers – Stress and lack of sleep can make symptoms worse. A structured, stable environment is key.
- Seek medical attention – Psychosis can be dangerous. Inpatient treatment may be necessary to stabilize symptoms.
At Promises Washburn House, we offer dual diagnosis treatment programs that address both meth addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
How Dual Diagnosis Treatment Can Help
When meth use and mental health conditions go hand in hand, treatment needs to address both issues together. That’s where dual diagnosis treatment comes in. This approach treats substance use disorder and mental health conditions simultaneously, using:
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to ease withdrawal and cravings
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to change negative thought patterns
- Group and individual therapy for emotional support
- Holistic approaches like mindfulness and trauma-informed care
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all treatment for addiction. That’s why we create personalized recovery plans that meet each person’s unique needs.
Get Better Together With Promises Washburn House
Recovering from meth addiction is tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Promises Washburn House, we’re here to support you every step of the way. We offer compassionate care, proven therapies, and a community that truly gets what you’re going through.
If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction in Worcester, MA, call 855.298.3104 or contact our team online. Healing starts here.
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