Symptoms of Someone on Crystal Meth

Symptoms of Someone on Crystal Meth

Crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms. Here are some of the common symptoms that may indicate someone is using crystal meth:

• Hyperactivity. People on crystal meth may be extremely active and restless and may talk excessively.
• Dilated pupils. Meth use can cause the pupils to become dilated, making them appear larger than normal.
• Weight loss. Crystal meth can suppress appetite, leading to rapid weight loss.
• Agitation and irritability. Users may become easily agitated and irritable and may experience mood swings.
• Insomnia. Meth use can cause insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure. Meth can cause the heart rate and blood pressure to increase, which can lead to heart problems.
• Paranoia. Users may become paranoid or experience hallucinations or delusions.
• Skin sores. Meth use can cause the user to scratch or pick at their skin, resulting in open sores or scabs.
• Tooth decay. Meth use can cause severe dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
• Unusual behavior. People on crystal meth may engage in risky or impulsive behaviors, such as driving recklessly or engaging in unprotected sex.

It is important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person and may not always be indicative of crystal meth use. If you suspect someone you know is using crystal meth, it is important to encourage them to seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.

What to Do and What to Avoid About Someone Using Crystal Meth?

Crystal meth use and addiction can have serious physical, mental, and social consequences. If you suspect that someone you know is using crystal meth, it is important to approach the situation with care and caution. Here are some things you can do and avoid:

DO:

• Express your concerns. Talk to the person in a non-judgmental way and express your concerns about their behavior.
• Offer support. Let the person know that you are there to support them and encourage them to seek professional help.
• Provide resources. Provide information about local addiction treatment centers, support groups, and counseling services.
• Encourage professional help. Encourage the person to seek professional help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.
• Practice self-care. Supporting someone with a substance use disorder can be emotionally and physically draining. Make sure to take care of yourself by setting boundaries, seeking support for yourself, and taking breaks when needed.

DON’T:

• Don’t enable it. Avoid enabling the person’s behavior by not providing them with money or other resources that could be used to support their addiction.
• Don’t be confrontational. Confronting the person about their drug use can often make the situation worse. Instead, approach them in a non-judgmental way and express your concerns.
• Don’t blame or shame. Avoid blaming or shaming the person for their addiction. Addiction is a complex disease and requires professional help to overcome.
• Don’t ignore the situation. Ignoring the situation or hoping that it will go away on its own can lead to serious consequences. It is important to take action and seek professional help as soon as possible.
• Don’t force the person into treatment. While it is important to encourage the person to seek professional help, it is ultimately their decision. Coercion or forcing someone into treatment is unlikely to lead to successful recovery.

Remember, supporting someone with a substance use disorder can be challenging, but with the right resources and support, recovery is possible.

Learn More:

• What Does Meth Look Like?
• What Does Meth Smell Like When You’re Cooking It?
• Meth Effects
• Meth Detox
• Meth Addiction Treatment
• The Dangers of Crystal Meth
• Meth Head
• Faces of Meth
• How Long Does Meth Stay in Your System?
• Meth Mouth
• Meth Pipe
• Drug Slang
• Meth Sores
• Meth Eyes

2.6 million

Among people aged 12 or older in 2020, 0.9% (or about 2.6 million people) reported using methamphetamine in the past 12 months.

Source: 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

23,837

In 2020, approximately 23,837 people died from an overdose involving psychostimulants with abuse potential other than cocaine (primarily methamphetamine).

Source: CDC

What are the Physical Signs and Symptoms of Crystal Meth Addiction?

Crystal meth addiction can have serious physical effects on the body, many of which are visible and noticeable. Here are some of the physical signs and symptoms of crystal meth addiction:

• Meth mouth. Meth use can cause severe dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. This is commonly referred to as “meth mouth.”
• Meth face. Prolonged meth use can lead to changes in the appearance of the face, such as sunken cheeks, wrinkles, and a gaunt, hollowed-out look.
• Meth sores. Meth use can cause the user to scratch or pick at their skin, resulting in open sores or scabs.
• Meth eyes. Meth use can cause the pupils to become dilated and lead to a strained, bug-eyed appearance.
• Meth head. Meth use can cause hair loss and skin damage, resulting in a balding, scabby appearance.
• Meth pipes and paraphernalia. Meth is typically smoked using a glass pipe, which may be accompanied by other drug paraphernalia, such as needles or syringes.

If you suspect that someone you know is addicted to crystal meth, it is important to encourage them to seek professional help as soon as possible. With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.