Methamphetamine addiction can result in serious impacts on physical and mental well-being, quality of life, and functioning. Overcoming meth addiction can be very difficult, but recovery is possible with professional interventions, social support, and ongoing treatment.
- Methamphetamine is a dangerous substance that can cause addiction, overdose, and serious mental and physical harm.
- Recovery from meth addiction will typically require comprehensive professional support, including medication and therapies.
- Relapse is common when overcoming meth addiction, and recovery can be an ongoing process, requiring long-term support.
Understanding meth addiction recovery
Methamphetamine is an illicit substance that is highly addictive, and its use can lead to severe mental and physical health consequences. [1]
Research suggests that methamphetamine addiction, or methamphetamine use disorder (MUD), is increasing across the United States, with growing numbers of people using the drug. Reports indicate that methamphetamine use doubled in the ten years between 2011 and 2021, and that around 1.86 million Americans used meth in 2018. [2]
Recovering from MUD can be particularly challenging, as the drug causes serious impacts on behavior, mental state, functioning, and well-being, and withdrawal can be dangerous. However, with professional treatment, people can recover from MUD, restoring their quality of life and well-being. [1][3]
Getting help for meth use disorder
It can be very difficult to overcome meth addiction, and withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous. It is typically necessary to utilize professional support to help with reducing and stopping meth use, learning skills to manage addictive behaviors, and coping with underlying emotional difficulties. [1]
Various treatment options are available, ranging in intensity to meet the individual’s needs and depending on the severity of their addiction. People can find out about available options by consulting with their primary care physician, who can provide advice and referrals.
Treatment options
Currently, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for MUD; however, various medications are being studied for their potential effectiveness. For example, a study investigated the effect of an extended-release naltrexone injection used in combination with daily extended-release bupropion tablets. This was found to be an effective treatment for reducing cravings and improving quality of life. [4]
Psychological therapies are found to be beneficial treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management (CM). CBT helps people recognize harmful behavior patterns and learn skills to manage addictive behaviors. CM helps people stop meth use with motivational incentives and rewards, positively reinforcing abstinence. [1]
The Matrix Model is also found to be a useful intervention for MUD. It involves a 16-week outpatient program that incorporates a comprehensive range of treatment approaches, including individual, group, and family therapies, education, peer support, and relapse prevention. [1][5]
Achieving long-term recovery
Long-term recovery from MUD will require ongoing intervention and support, and relapse is common. After completing one or more treatment approaches, individuals are likely to benefit from ongoing therapy, medications, and peer support. [1]
Aftercare options and sober living accommodations can help support people in maintaining their recovery post-treatment. This can help with implementing lifestyle changes and continuing with positive habits and interventions to support the recovery process. [6]
Support groups for meth addiction
Support groups can be a crucial part of recovery, providing a space to discuss challenges and experiences, a sense of community and understanding, and accountability. Various support groups are available across the US, offering both in-person and online meetings, as well as support for family and friends.
Support groups can include 12-step facilitation, such as Narcotics Anonymous, or therapy-based support, such as SMART Recovery. These organizations also offer support groups for family and friends, such as Nar-Anon and SMART Recovery Family and Friends, to help cope with a loved one’s addiction.
Overcoming meth use relapse
Relapse is common in meth addiction recovery and may occur more than once throughout the process. Relapse does not mean failure and can be used as an opportunity for growth and learning, helping individuals to identify triggers and aspects of their lives that can be adapted to support their return to recovery. [1][6]
Many treatments will provide support with creating a relapse prevention plan and contingency plan. These can include strategies to manage triggers and challenges that might contribute to relapse, or strategies to put in place should relapse occur. This can be a key part of recovery, helping people develop and improve skills to cope with emotional distress and challenges faced throughout recovery. [5][6]
Starting the road to recovery
MUD can develop quickly and can result in dangerous or life-threatening consequences. Seeking professional help can be challenging for people with methamphetamine use issues, but it is often the best pathway to begin the road to recovery.
Healthcare professionals can provide support and advice, helping people learn more about and access the available options.
