What You Need to Know About Methamphetamine Detox

Methamphetamine abuse is rampant in the United States with an estimated 13 million users in the United States alone. As a powerful central nervous system stimulant, it provides users with a dramatic, euphoric energy boost and a high lasting 12 or more hours. Meth is often abused following addiction to another substance such as a painkiller or alcohol, but for a number of other reasons as well. These may include prolonged exposure through social circumstances, mental health issues, emotional or psychological trauma, or a local culture of meth use. As a stimulant, methamphetamine deeply affects the brain and body and withdrawal can be difficult and traumatic. However, it’s the first and most important step on the road to recovery, and one that should be done with professional supervision and care.

The Lighthouse Detox Facility in Orange County, California is a safe, beautiful, and comfortable space to detox. With full medical support, a residential detox facility, and a staff of trained medical professionals able to help you through the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of detox, we can provide everything you need to kick-start your recovery.

Symptoms of Methamphetamine Withdrawal

Methamphetamine is an amphetamine, which affects the central nervous system through dopamine and GABBA receptors in the brain. With a very long withdrawal timeline lasting up to months after the final dose, meth is also one of the hardest drugs to detox from, simply because users feel low and depressed for weeks after using.

Crash

Starting between 12 and 24 hours after the final dose, most methamphetamine users experience a severe crash. This typically includes strong depression and fatigue, which may result in suicidal thoughts. This stage will typically last for 3-10 days and will worsen throughout. Some users experience hallucinations, paranoia, and anxiety during the crash stage.

Cravings

After the first 3-10 days, most users begin to experience intense cravings. This is the most difficult period for many, because the risk of relapse is high. Having emotional and psychological support here is crucial to making it through without relapse.

Recovery

Most withdrawal symptoms will begin to abate after the first 2 weeks and can taper off over the next 4. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms will last for longer.

Methamphetamine withdrawal is not typically dangerous on its own, but with intense depression, anxiety, exhaustion, and cravings, it can lead to self-harm and suicidal thoughts or ideation. Anyone quitting meth should be under close medical supervision.

Detoxing from Meth at Lighthouse Recovery Center

Our beautiful Orange County detox facility is the perfect place to begin your journey to recovery. With a focus on offering comfort, friendly and emotionally supportive staff, and counseling and therapy throughout the detox process, we offer everything you need to make it through withdrawal as quickly and as safely as possible. Severe depression is the biggest risk of meth withdrawal, and our detox facility can help you to manage it, while using medication to reduce withdrawal symptoms so you can recover and move into treatment more quickly.

Want to know more? Contact us today for a comprehensive consultation regarding your or your loved one’s situation. We’re here, we can help.