Methamphetamine is known for being extremely addictive. Sometimes known as “ice,” meth is a neurotoxin stimulant that produces a strong euphoria. Crystal methamphetamine is a condensed, dangerous version of the drug. Once someone becomes addicted, they must learn how to detox from ice. Detox can be challenging and dangerous, so it is important to only detox under medical supervision.
Withdrawal Symptoms From Meth
As someone learns how to detox from ice, they will most likely go through a range of withdrawal symptoms. This man-made stimulant has a powerful effect on the dopamine levels in the brain. When someone abuses this drug, it leads to a sense of euphoria and excitement.
Over time, the brain becomes used to having meth present. A process called downregulation leads to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain. Basically, the neurons responsible for dopamine release stop releasing as much. TAs a result, the individual becomes dependent on meth for their dopamine.
Once someone stops using meth, their dopamine levels immediately start to fall. This drop in dopamine levels fuels different withdrawal symptoms. Many individuals experience physical, mental and emotional symptoms.
Among the many withdrawal symptoms, patients are likely to experience anhedonia. This term means that the user basically loses their ability to feel satisfaction or pleasure when they stop using. While this withdrawal symptom can be challenging, it will become less troubling after continued abstinence.
Other withdrawal symptoms include:
- Mild depression
- Problems sleeping
- Lack of energy
- Restlessness or jitteriness
- Nausea
- Lack of sexual pleasure
- Psychosis
- Feeling disoriented
- Itchy or red eyes
- Headaches
- Decreased motivation
- Paranoia
- Drug cravings
- Increased appetite
- Hallucinations
- Mood swings
- Body aches
While many of the side effects may be mild and temporary, withdrawal symptoms can be severe in some cases. Because of this, it is important that individuals go to a professional detox center after they learn how to detox from ice. At the treatment center, licensed professionals supervise and support clients throughout all stages of withdrawal.
How to Detox From Ice
The best way to detox is at a treatment center. Inpatient detox is generally the best option to help manage cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms. During withdrawal, many patients experience an intense desire to use again in order to stop the withdrawal symptoms. If they are at an inpatient treatment center, they are unable to access drugs until treatment is complete. This helps to boost recovery rates while ensuring the patient is as comfortable and safe as possible.
While each patient and detox center may be unique, there is generally a standard process that patients will go through. Initially, individuals will go through intake. Clients meet with an addiction specialist who documents the patient’s history of drug abuse, co-occurring disorders, the amounts and types of drugs used. This information will be used to create the treatment plan.
Afterward, patients are introduced to the treatment facility. They will be given a room. Meanwhile, their belongings will be checked for any contraband. A physical examination will be done by a doctor as the patient’s medical history is reviewed.
Once the intake process is complete, treatment is ready to begin. Depending on the patient, a diverse array of therapy, treatments and support options may be used. If the individual has a co-occurring mental or health disorder, they may receive treatment for the other disorder as well.
Detox typically lasts for 3 to 10 days depending on the individual’s needs. After detox, patients may continue on with a residential treatment program, a support group or therapy. The important thing is that each person builds a drug-free environment that is conducive to their long-term recovery.
Supporting Detox
Other than seeking help at a meth addiction detox center, patients can also learn how to detox from ice with supportive treatment, diet, and other remedies. Eating a healthy diet helps to support the patient’s health as they undergo detox. Likewise, drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration and support detoxification.
Many patients find it difficult to deal with negative emotions in detox. During their addiction, they may have used drugs or alcohol to handle stress and negative feelings. As patients enter detox, options like exercise, meditation, yoga or therapy can help with handling stress.
How Can a Treatment Center Support Detox?
Individuals can get medical support and supervision for withdrawal symptoms at a licensed and accredited detox center like Serenity House Detox & Recovery. Along with helping individuals through the meth detox process, our Florida detox center also helps individuals with:
- Getting medical supervision for all withdrawal symptoms
- Address a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder
- Eating a nutritionally balanced diet to promote health and comfort
- Preventing relapse
- Learning about holistic addiction treatment options.
Our inpatient medical detox program is the first step toward treating a methamphetamine addiction. Before individuals can move on with their lives, they have to learn how to detox from ice. At the treatment center, patients get the medical support and treatment options that they need to begin their sobriety.
No one deserves to deal with the pain or stress of an addiction. If you or a loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, help is available. An affordable detox for loved ones in Florida is the best way to start your journey toward long-term sobriety. To begin your road to recovery, call Serenity House Detox & Recovery at 866-294-5306.
