What is it Like Quitting Meth?
Meth is considered to be one of the most addictive central nervous system stimulants. Although it is illegal in nearly all countries, it is widely available and accessible in Australia, the United Kingdom, Russia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and the United States. Methamphetamine comes in a crystal or powdered form and can be snorted, smoked, or injected. The drug is very addictive and quitting meth will almost always require the help of a methamphetamine rehab.
What is it Like Quitting Meth Cold Turkey?
Meth is a powerful stimulant and causes a rapid release of mood elevating neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters cause feelings of happiness and excitement. It also causes the user to be physically energised, less hungry, and not tired.
People who use meth excessively or for a constant period of time may begin to tweak. When tweaking, the person does not sleep or eat for anywhere from 3 to 15 days. At this point in time, their mind may hallucinate and dissociate from the body.
When used, meth is active in the brain for 5 to 40 minutes. It rapidly metabolises and can cause the user to crave more immediately. Compulsive behaviours may also result. The comedown from meth can be so intense that abuse to the drug tends to form quickly. Quitting meth cold turkey is likely to be extremely uncomfortable and is not recommended.
As a methamphetamine rehab in Thailand might explain to you, it is not impossible to quit meth cold turkey, but it’s not easy – at all. Working with a team of addiction professionals can help you to manage the withdrawal symptoms; thereby aiding in the overall success rate of coming off the drug.
Quitting Meth Cold Turkey
Many people who have an addiction to meth try to quit meth cold turkey at least once. Some have tried to do so many times. Because of the compulsive behaviours associated with meth use, as well as the lack of medical support, most of these people will relapse quickly.
Attempting to quit meth cold turkey requires you to understand the withdrawal symptoms. These will usually begin within 24 hours after you stop using. In addition to the physical symptoms, you will also have to ignore the habit or routine associated with using – this can take a significant amount of effort. The withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Cravings for meth
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritation
- Mood swings
- Sweating
- Childs
- Insomnia
- Nightmares
- Feeling exhausted
- Increased appetite
- Feeling no pleasure
- Psychosis
There are a number of factors that may influence the length of the withdrawal – regardless of whether you are at a methamphetamine rehab in Thailand or quitting on your own. These factors include:
- How long the drug was used
- The amount of drugs used
- Genetics, family history, and mental health
The most intense withdrawal symptoms when quitting meth cold turkey, also known as the acute withdrawal phase, may last between seven and twelve days. Longer effects, such as lower levels of dopamine in the brian, can take months to heal.
The Phases of a Meth Withdrawal
When you wonder what it is like to quit meth cold turkey, it is prudent that you understand the different phases of the withdrawal:
Phase One – This phase will bring forth feelings of sluggishness, hunger, and intense sadness. You might not feel cravings, but you will sleep a lot. You might also struggle to think clearly or manage your emotions. Although the meth isn’t active in the brain, it remains in the body for around three days. Only after it has left the body completely will this phase end.
Phase Two – It is this stage in which cravings will begin. Your brain will tell you it needs the meth to survive. This phase is the one in which people are most likely to relapse. It can last for ten days or more. A methamphetamine rehab in Thailand should be sought to help you get through this phase.
Phase Three – This phase can last for 30 weeks, or more. It is a period in which you will start to feel better. Cravings may occur, but tend to be more random; thereby, more manageable.
Why Go to a Detox and Rehab for a Meth Addiction
You can quit meth cold turkey, but you should not. The best way to successfully recover from an addiction, is to go through a medically supervised detox and onto an inpatient rehab programme, Here you will have ongoing social support; of which, is vital to a healthy recovery. By working with psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors, nurses, and social workers your physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms can be managed. These professionals will help you to remain accountable, to overcome cravings, to stay sober, to understand the reasons for your use, and to focus on a better future. Studies show that a methamphetamine rehab in Thailand, or elsewhere, is the best approach to treating meth addiction. If you do not wish to quit meth cold turkey, and would like to know more about our rehab in Thailand, call Siam Rehab now.