The Signs of Meth Addiction: What to Do if You Notice These in Yourself or a Loved One

treating a meth use disorder in earlanger kentucky

“Is my loved one taking meth?” Between 2021 and 2022, 63,000 Kentuckians consumed methamphetamine, and many of their loved ones asked similar questions. How can you spot signs of meth addiction? If someone asked, would you be able to list them?

At SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky, we solve unmet needs by helping loved ones understand the signs of a meth use disorder. As a facility that offers crisis care and 24-hour admittance, we’ve seen our patients come in all states of need. For some, the signs of meth addiction can be more evident than others. Perhaps you have noticed changes in yourself or someone you know, but you aren’t sure what these changes mean. Today, we are going to discuss some of the most common signs of a meth use disorder you might notice in yourself or a loved one.

Symptoms of Meth Use Disorder on the Body and Mind

Meth use disorder has an impact on many aspects of someone’s life. Even if someone only takes meth for a short period or in small doses, there are several meth side effects someone might experience. Some side effects are noticeable to those around them or might seem obvious, while others may not.

Psychological Signs

When someone consumes meth, they can experience many psychological signs. Some signs are temporary and only last as long as the substance is in their system. One of these signs is euphoria. Euphoria works alongside the neurotransmitter dopamine. When someone is consuming meth, dopamine encourages them to continue to take the substance to receive the same pleasure.

In the long-term, a meth use disorder can result in the development of psychological disorders. For example, someone who has been consuming methamphetamine for several years may have developed depression. Someone else may experience psychosis and have symptoms such as paranoia, repetitive motor activity, and hallucinations.

Finally, if someone has been consuming meth for some time, they may have found that it’s difficult to stop taking the substance once started. Cravings can occur during the crash cycle of meth. During the crash period, they often feel uncomfortable and feel as if meth is the only way to relieve these feelings, causing them to want to continue.

Behavioral Signs

If a loved one is consuming meth, they will often exhibit behavioral signs. For example, some people might sleep less due to the substance being a stimulant. It may also result in them feeling more focused or attentive than usual.

Others may exhibit unusual or violent behaviors. If your loved one consumes this substance, they may scratch themselves due to intense itching. Some people may become more focused on meth or have new friends who take meth. These actions may lead to them behaving secretively or suspiciously.

Some people stop attending work or school due to their meth use disorder, while other people give up recreational or social activities. Financial concerns can also begin to impact their lives because of their continued meth use.

Physical Signs

One of the most common ways to notice if someone you love has been consuming meth is with physical signs. Some physical signs are noticeable with the naked eye, while medical tools, such as a stethoscope, may be needed to observe others.

Most of the physical symptoms someone experiences when they have consumed meth are short-term. However, there are some long-term physical signs as well. Below is a chart that includes some of the most common of both:

Physical Signs of Meth Use Disorder
Short-Term	Long-Term
Increased attention	Weight loss
Increased wakefulness	Tooth decay/Tooth loss
Hyperthermia	Skin Sores
Irregular heartbeat	Lung, liver, kidney damage
Decreased fatigue	Respiratory concerns

How to Spot the Signs of Meth Withdrawal

Methamphetamine is not usually dangerous during withdrawal and does not typically require detox. The most common signs of meth withdrawal are increased appetite and sleep. Some people may experience symptoms of depression, which a mental health professional should monitor. Most people undergoing meth withdrawal will experience cravings. Being in an environment where you no longer have access to the substance will prevent a return to use. If someone returns to use after being away from meth for some time, they have a higher risk of experiencing an overdose.

What Are the Warning Signs of a Meth Overdose?

A meth overdose is a medical emergency. If someone you know is experiencing an overdose, remain calm and call 911 immediately. Understanding the signs can allow you to save your loved one’s life. Below are some of the most common signs of a meth overdose:

Dilated pupils
Irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Increased body temperature
Shortness of breath
Agitation

Other Signs Your Loved One Might Have a Meth Use Disorder

Perhaps your loved one has changed in the past several months. They aren’t the same person they were before, and there might be days you don’t recognize them. You have your suspicions, but you don’t know for sure if they are consuming methamphetamine. You’ve considered the side effects we listed above, but what are some other ways you can spot a meth use disorder?

How Meth Use Impacts Physical Appearance

One of the most noticeable changes that might indicate a meth use disorder in your loved one is extreme weight loss. Methamphetamine is a stimulant, and one of the most common symptoms is a decreased appetite. Since they may not eat as much while consuming meth, they will most likely lose weight. Individuals who have had a methamphetamine use disorder for a long time may have visible skin sores from injecting the substance or scratching. People who consume meth may have scabs on their bodies, known as “meth mites.” These are created due to a hallucination of bugs crawling under the skin. Those who experience this sensation will scratch themselves to the point that scabs form. Other people may experience tooth decay or loss, especially if taking the substance orally. People who consume substances regularly often have lessened hygiene and self-care routines. This decrease in care can contribute to further dental concerns over time.

Conversational Clues - Common Street Names for Meth

If your loved one is partaking in the consumption of methamphetamine, they might use names or phrases that refer to the substance without saying it directly. These street names for meth may include:

Batu
Black Beauties
Crystal
Glass
Ice
Poor Man’s Cocaine
Speed
Uppers
Yaba

Meth Paraphernalia

Your loved one may have several objects that could indicate a meth use disorder. The most apparent indication would be the physical presence of meth. However, it can be challenging to know if the substance is meth, as many substances can look like each other. Meth is usually in the form of powder or rock-like chunks. Its coloring may be white, yellow, or brown. There are some other indications that your loved one may have a substance use disorder. Typically, people will smoke, snort, or inject this substance. The types of objects you may find if you suspect your loved one is taking meth depends on their preferred method. These items might include straws, pipes, small mirrors, and needles.

how to spot the signs of meth withdrawal

Treating a Meth Use Disorder in Erlanger, KY

If someone you know has a meth use disorder, it can be challenging to navigate. Your loved one may be exhibiting changes that create a sense of worry or concern. Perhaps you even feel like you’ve lost them. Or maybe you are in a place in your life where meth feels like it has taken the reins, and you aren’t confident about how you can get control back. Compassionate meth use disorder treatment can help make the process easier by providing you with the skills and support that will carry you through your recovery.

Located in Erlanger, KY, SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky solves unmet needs. One way we do this is by offering no-cost care assessments that allow you to work with a representative as they design the best treatment plan for you. Call us today at 859-429-5188 if you have any questions or wish to start treatment today.

At SUN Behavioral Health Kentucky, we solve unmet needs in the Erlanger, KY community. We do this by offering treatment for both adolescents and adults. Should you have any questions you wish to address or seek further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 859-429-5188.

859-429-5188