When you’ve become addicted to a dangerous drug and you stop taking it in an attempt to get clean, your body goes into withdrawal. It physically and mentally craves the drug and becomes dependent on it. Methamphetamines are no exception. Methamphetamine withdrawal can be horrible and in some cases dangerous.
Methamphetamine withdrawal can start as soon as 24 hours after the last dose was taken, leaving addicts constantly in search of more. There are multiple types of methamphetamine withdrawal with various symptoms and each individual feels them differently.
Here’s a snapshot of what the typical methamphetamine withdrawal looks like.
Extreme Sleep Interruptions
Initially, methamphetamine withdrawal can cause an individual to feel energetic and ready to conquer the world. They probably still have some form of methamphetamines in their body which causes severe sleep interruptions. The individual may even be unable to sleep for the first few days.
As methamphetamine withdrawal sets in, a person may begin sleeping for long periods of time. Prominent fatigue may cause the individual to sleep 12 hours or more for several days in a row.
Intense Desire for More Meth
The next stage is an intense desire for more methamphetamine. Whether the drug has been stopped altogether, or the dosage has been lowered, the brain will start looking for the additional dopamine to rebalance things. Methamphetamine withdrawal produces such an intense desire for the drug that it is usually impossible to fight without external help. It takes trained individuals to help fight the intense desire caused by methamphetamine withdrawal.
Mania Due to the Lack of Methamphetamines
This stage can vary greatly among individuals but typically includes confusion and puzzling thoughts. Many individuals experience hallucinations or delusions due to methamphetamine withdrawal which is one reason why medical intervention is so important. It takes trained professionals to ensure the safety of all involved. The severity of the delusions and hallucinations are different for everyone but may be affected by the length of time spent using before methamphetamine withdrawal.
Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression are understandably part of methamphetamine withdrawal. As the body becomes clean, stress accumulates and needs somewhere to go which is why many treatment centers encourage physical fitness or meditation. It helps channel that energy to reduce anxiety.
Depression can also be a normal part of methamphetamine withdrawal. It usually takes a little less than a month to regain control and normal function but for some depression can last much longer. Trained medical professionals can help treat the severe depression which accompanies methamphetamine withdrawal and offer a greater chance of success.
Methamphetamine Withdrawal Takes Help
Methamphetamine withdrawal can be miserable and dangerous. It should not be attempted without the help of medical professionals who have been trained to deal with the unique circumstances of methamphetamine withdrawal. It takes help to be successful, but it can be done. If you or a loved one has been abusing methamphetamines, do not attempt methamphetamine withdrawal alone. Seek the help of trained professionals who can manage your symptoms safely and improve your odds of success.
