Are you aware of the term “meth psychosis?” It’s a term that has gained increasing attention in recent years as the use of methamphetamine, or “meth,” continues to rise.
This dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition is a result of prolonged meth use, and can cause individuals to experience hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and violent behavior. It is a particular concern for long-term users, but does not spare “casual” users either.
In today’s post, we will explore what exactly meth psychosis is, how it develops, its symptoms and signs, and what can be done to treat it. Buckle up for an informative ride.
Meth Psychosis: A Potential Effect Of Meth Addiction
Meth psychosis is a medical condition that can be caused by heavy methamphetamine use.
Psychosis is a mental disorder in which a person loses contact with reality. Symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Psychosis is often associated with mental disorders such as schizophrenia, but it can also be brought on by prolonged drug use.
Those who are addicted to meth have a greater chance of developing meth psychosis, but it can happen to other users as well.
The most common symptoms addiction to methamphetamine are:
- Taking the drug in larger amounts or for a longer period of time than intended.
- Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control meth use.
- A great deal of time spent using meth, obtaining it, or recovering from its effects.
- Meth use despite social, occupational, or recreational activities being given up or reduced because of it.
- Use of meth in situations where it is physically hazardous, such as driving while under the influence.
- Continued meth use despite knowledge of having a physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused by, or exacerbated by, the drug.
Even new users of meth can also experience meth psychosis, as we shall see below. While the exact cause of meth psychosis is not known, it is thought to be related to the way methamphetamine affects the brain.
Symptoms Of Meth Psychosis
Meth psychosis can cause a person to act erratically and become a danger to themselves and others. Symptoms of meth psychosis are similar to that of other psychoses, and can include:
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations, often visual, auditory, and tactile
- Delusions, especially concerning persecution
- The belief that others can hear the users thoughts
- Bizarre or violent behavior
People with meth psychosis may believe that they are being watched or followed, or that someone is out to get them. They may also have delusions of grandeur, believing they have special powers or are invulnerable.
Hallucinations caused by meth psychosis can be visual, auditory, or tactile. Visual hallucinations may involve seeing things that are not there. Auditory hallucinations may involve hearing voices that do not exist. Tactile hallucinations may involve feeling things that are not there, such as bugs crawling on their skin.
Meth psychosis can be a very frightening experience for those who experience it. Meth psychosis usually resolves within days or weeks after stopping methamphetamine use, but in some cases it may persist for months or even years.
Meth psychosis can be extremely dangerous, and it can lead to violent behavior. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of meth psychosis, it is important to seek professional help immediately. If someone is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is imperative you take them to a hospital as soon as possible.
Prevalence Of Meth Psychosis
Meth psychosis is quite prevalent. Some studies have even shown almost three out of every four users experience this psychosis sometime during use. It’s likely that even more than one in three “casual” users experience this psychosis at one time or another.
According to a study from Frontiers In Psychology:
“Research has shown that METH psychosis is a prevalent health concern among recreational users. Studies on prevalence rates have varied between 7% up to 76%, with a recent meta-analysis indicating that the prevalence of METH-induced psychotic disorder was 36.5% And these rates were higher for lifetime prevalence (42.7%) and for those with METH use disorder (43.3%).”
Meth psychosis is a very real concern, even for those who do not feel they are addicted to meth.
Treatment for Meth Psychosis
If you or a loved one is experiencing meth psychosis, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Treatment for meth psychosis typically includes:
- Inpatient treatment: This is often necessary to ensure the safety of the individual and to provide 24/7 supervision. This is done in a hospital.
- Detoxification: This is always the first step in treating any addiction or symptoms associated. After detox, patients generally enter rehabilitation, where they will learn the skills to keep themselves sober.
- Medication: antipsychotic medications can be helpful in treating meth psychosis.
- Psychotherapy: to treat the underlying addiction, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in addressing the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to meth use.
- Reintegration: After rehabilitation, addicts must use the skills they learned inside rehab in the outside world. Involving family members in the treatment process can be helpful in promoting recovery.
Importantly, treating the psychosis associated with meth is only the first step. To fully combat the problem, users need to undertake steps to deal with the underlying causes of meth use.
Get Treatment For A Meth Addiction Before It’s Too Late
Meth psychosis is an extreme alteration of reality caused by long-term methamphetamine abuse. It can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, leading to psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with meth addiction, it’s important to seek help immediately in order to prevent the onset of serious mental health issues like meth psychosis.
With proper treatment and support, people who battle addiction can find hope for recovery from this devastating condition. Call us now to get the help you need. We can be reached at (615) 326-6449.
