My Stepdad Is On Meth

"Unmasking the harsh reality of 'my stepdad is on meth'. Learn signs, effects, and recovery strategies."

Published On

June 20, 2024

Dove Recovery's Team

My Stepdad Is On Meth

Understanding Methamphetamine Use

Methamphetamine, often simply referred to as "meth," is a highly addictive stimulant drug typically used by smoking, snorting, or injecting. A specific form that resembles glass fragments or white rocks with a blue tint is known as crystal meth [1]. Methamphetamine use can lead to both physical and psychological harms and has become a significant problem in society, as reflected in the increasing methamphetamine use statistics.

Physical and Psychological Harms

Methamphetamine use is associated with major physical harms such as toxicity, mortality, cardiovascular/cerebrovascular pathology, dependence, and blood-borne virus transmission. It can impact various parts of the body, including the muscles, liver, brain, mouth, heart, circulatory system, and respiratory system.

In addition to the physical harms, methamphetamine use also leads to several psychological harms. These include methamphetamine psychosis, depression, suicide, anxiety, and violent behaviors. Methamphetamine use may worsen existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, in the short term [4]. Long-term methamphetamine use is associated with an increased risk of psychological effects such as dependence (addiction). Dependent users develop a tolerance to methamphetamine, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect, which can lead to poor physical and mental health, social and financial problems, and family and social breakdown [4].

Methamphetamine Use Statistics

The numbers related to methamphetamine use have been rising over the years. In 2020, the SAMHSA's National Helpline received 833,598 calls, showing a significant 27 percent increase from 2019 when the helpline received a total of 656,953 calls for the year [5].

In 2021, 101,000 individuals aged 12 or older initiated methamphetamine use, and 1.6 million individuals aged 12 and older had a methamphetamine use disorder that year [3].

A study by the National Institute of Health indicated that methamphetamine-related overdose deaths almost tripled between 2015 and 2019. Additionally, during this 5-year period, the number of overdose deaths involving psychostimulant drugs other than cocaine (primarily methamphetamine) increased by 180% [3].

Year	Methamphetamine Users (age 12 and older)	Methamphetamine Use Disorder (age 12 and older)
2019	2 Million	1 Million
2020	2.25 Million	1.3 Million
2021	2.5 Million	1.6 Million

These statistics emphasize the prevalence of methamphetamine use and the urgent need for awareness and intervention strategies.

Effects of Methamphetamine Use

Methamphetamine use has profound and far-reaching effects on both the physical and mental health of those who use it. It's important to understand these effects to recognize the signs of methamphetamine use and provide effective support to those struggling with addiction.

Short-Term Mental Health Risks

In the short-term, methamphetamine use can exacerbate existing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Those using the drug may experience heightened feelings of distress, unease, and sadness. This can lead to a cycle of increased drug use in an attempt to alleviate these negative feelings, further perpetuating the harmful effects of the drug [4].

Long-Term Psychological Effects

The long-term psychological effects of methamphetamine use are severe. Dependence, or addiction, is a common outcome, with users developing a tolerance to the drug and requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect. This dependence can lead to a host of negative outcomes, including poor physical and mental health, social and financial problems, and family and social breakdown.

Methamphetamine Addiction

Methamphetamine addiction is a complex and pervasive issue that affects a significant number of individuals. This powerful and addictive substance influences the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individuals, often leading to misuse. An estimated 1 million Americans struggle with a methamphetamine use disorder [6].

The effects of methamphetamine addiction are not limited to the mind. It can impact various parts of the body including the muscles, liver, brain, mouth, heart, circulatory system, and respiratory system [3].

Understanding these effects is crucial in identifying someone who may be struggling with methamphetamine use and providing them with the necessary support and resources. If you suspect that a loved one may be using methamphetamine, it's important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding, keeping in mind the significant psychological and physical toll that methamphetamine use can take on an individual.

Recognizing Methamphetamine Addiction

Recognizing methamphetamine addiction in a loved one can be challenging but is the first crucial step towards helping them recover. It involves being aware of the signs of meth use disorder and knowing how to approach the individual about their addiction.

Signs of Methamphetamine Use Disorder

According to GoodRx, signs of meth use disorder can include:

Neglecting responsibilities
Changes in energy and sleep patterns
Increasing time spent on meth use
Withdrawal from social activities
Continued use despite negative consequences
Being secretive or lying

Furthermore, individuals using meth may exhibit high energy levels, reduced need for sleep, confusion, paranoia, or aggression. The recognition of these signs can aid in the early intervention and treatment of methamphetamine use disorder.

Approaching a Loved One About Their Addiction

Addressing a loved one's meth use disorder can be challenging. It requires patience, consistency, and understanding. Here are some strategies recommended by GoodRx for initiating conversations about meth use:

Plan ahead: Think about what you want to say and prepare for possible reactions.
Choose the right time and place: Make sure the person is sober and attentive during the conversation.
Be direct: Clearly articulate your concerns without blaming or criticizing.
Ask questions: Encourage the person to talk about their experiences and feelings.
Listen actively: Show that you respect their thoughts and feelings, even if you don’t agree with them.
Stay calm: Try to remain calm and empathetic, even if the conversation becomes difficult.

It's crucial to remember that these conversations might not lead to immediate change. It may take multiple discussions before the person agrees to seek help. Principles from motivational interviewing, such as empathy, reflective listening, avoidance of arguing, and helping a person see discrepancies between their drug use and life goals can be effective, as suggested by The Recovery Village.

Recognizing methamphetamine addiction and initiating conversations about it are vital steps towards recovery. They pave the way for seeking treatment options and starting the journey towards recovery.

Supporting Someone with Meth Addiction

If you're facing the reality that a loved one, such as a stepdad, is struggling with meth addiction, it can be incredibly challenging. You may be feeling a range of emotions, from anger and frustration to fear and sadness. However, it's important to know that there are ways to support someone with a meth addiction.

Initiating Conversations About Addiction

Confronting a loved one about their meth addiction is a delicate process. When initiating the conversation, it's crucial to approach the issue from a place of care and concern, avoiding blame or making them feel ashamed. Empathy and understanding can go a long way in communicating effectively with the individual [1].

Using principles from motivational interviewing can also be helpful in encouraging a loved one to seek help. Strategies like empathy, reflective listening, and helping the person see discrepancies between their drug use and life goals can be effective. Remember, the aim is not to argue or confront, but to guide the person towards recognizing the problem and seeking help.

Timing is also crucial. It is not recommended to confront someone when they are high or experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, as they may not be receptive to conversation. Instead, wait until they appear sober and approach the topic in a non-confrontational manner.

Strategies for Supporting Recovery

Supporting a loved one with a meth addiction involves several strategies. According to GoodRx, some of the key strategies include:

Suggesting treatment options: Encourage the individual to seek professional help. Treatment for meth addiction often involves medical detox, followed by therapy such as motivational interviewing, contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and community reinforcement. The Matrix model, a 16-week program that includes individual, family, and group therapy, is beneficial for stimulant addiction. Family therapy can also play a crucial role in the recovery process.
Staying consistent and positive: It's important to maintain a positive attitude and consistent behavior. This can provide a stable environment for the individual, which is often beneficial for recovery.
Avoiding enabling behaviors: Be mindful not to enable the individual's addiction by providing money, bailing them out of problems, or ignoring their drug use.
Protecting the individual and oneself: Meth use can lead to dangerous situations. It's important to ensure the safety of the individual and yourself.
Prioritizing self-care: Supporting a loved one with an addiction can be emotionally draining. Ensure you also take care of your own physical and mental health.

Remember, supporting a loved one with a meth addiction is a process. There will be ups and downs, but your support can make a significant difference in their journey towards recovery.

Treatment Options for Meth Addiction

Methamphetamine addiction is a serious condition that requires immediate and effective treatment. The options range from medical detox to various forms of therapy, including family involvement in recovery.

Medical Detox and Therapy

The first step in treating meth addiction is often medically managed detox, which can help alleviate meth withdrawal symptoms American Addiction Centers. Although there are no FDA-approved medications specifically designed for stimulant withdrawal, healthcare providers may prescribe certain medications to manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

Following detox, the individual typically engages in a range of therapy methods. These might include motivational interviewing, contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and community reinforcement GoodRx.

A highly effective treatment for stimulant addiction, including meth, is the Matrix model. This comprehensive program spans 16 weeks and includes individual, family, and group therapy.

While the main focus is on the individual struggling with addiction, it's important to remember that methamphetamine use disorder often involves co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or psychotic disorders. These conditions might be a result of the addiction or might contribute to the addiction itself. Thus, medications may also be prescribed to treat these co-occurring conditions.

Family Involvement in Recovery

The role of family in the recovery process is crucial. Addiction doesn't only affect the individual struggling with the substance use disorder, but also their family, friends, and close relationships.

Family therapy can provide a supportive environment where family members can gain a better understanding of the nature of addiction, learn how to support their loved one in their recovery journey, and address any interpersonal issues that may have contributed to or resulted from the addiction.

Through family therapy, family members can learn to set healthy boundaries, improve communication, and rebuild trust. This communal support can significantly improve the individual's odds of long-term recovery.

In conclusion, methamphetamine addiction is a complex, multifaceted issue that requires comprehensive treatment. However, with the right support and treatment plan, recovery is possible. The journey to recovery is a long and challenging one, but every step forward is a step towards a healthier, happier future.