How to Overcome Methamphetamine Addiction

Methamphetamine, or meth, is one of the most addictive drugs in existence. Meth abuse can cause social isolation, depression, psychosis, convulsions and death. In order to escape the throes of methamphetamine, you must seek medical attention and commit to ongoing treatment. Follow these steps to overcome methamphetamine addiction.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Admit you have a problem. It's often difficult for an addict to gain perspective on his illness, but you must acknowledge your problem before you can recover. Talk to people about the impact your meth habit has on their lives and how the drug has affected your personality and relationships.
2. Seek professional help. Find a doctor or therapist you discuss your problem with and who will help you develop a treatment plan. Methamphetamine addiction is difficult to treat, but your best chance of recovery is participation in a drug rehabilitation program.
3. Enter a treatment program for methamphetamine addiction. The most effective model of treatment for meth addiction is cognitive-behavior therapy. This model allows addicts to recognize what triggers their drug use and learn how to develop positive coping mechanisms to deal with problems in a non-destructive manner. Cognitive-behavior therapy also emphasizes goal-setting and confidence-building,
4. Sever ties with other drug addicts. You must surround yourself with people who are drug-free and who support your commitment to quit using methamphetamine. You can develop ties to other recovering addicts is to join a recovery group such as Narcotics Anonymous.
5. Be prepared for withdrawals. The primary effects of discontinuing methamphetamine use are psychological and can last for up to 6 months. Common symptoms include depression, anxiety, rage and intense food cravings. Remember that these feelings will eventually fade, and that a lifetime free from meth addiction is worth short-term hardship.
6. Hang in there even if you relapse. Because methamphetamine is so psychologically addictive, relapse is common. Attempt to recognize the cause of your relapse and treat it as a positive learning experience. Remember that there is no cure for addiction, and that the risk of falling into old patterns will be with you for life.

Tips & Warnings

• Early intervention is key. If you just started using methamphetamine, or know someone who has a problem, arrange for help as soon as possible. Individuals who enter rehabilitation programs early in the addiction cycle are more likely to overcome their methamphetamine dependence.