A group therapy session for treating severe methamphetamine dependence and withdrawal syndrome.

What is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a highly addictive stimulant that comes in various forms, including crystal meth. It exerts a powerful psychological and physical hold on users, leading to rapid dependence. The drug’s potency drives users to seek it repeatedly, often at the expense of their health, relationships, and livelihoods.

Methamphetamine’s effects are far-reaching. Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) highlights that along with altering the brain, meth dangerously strains the body’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems, potentially leading to death.

How Meth Use Affects the Brain and Body

  • Dopamine and Brain Activity: Methamphetamine floods the brain with dopamine, creating a euphoric rush that hijacks the reward system. This surge reinforces addictive behaviors, making it incredibly challenging to overcome meth’s grip without professional help.

  • Short-Term Effects: Users often experience heightened alertness, increased energy, hyperactivity, and suppressed appetite. However, these effects come with serious risks, including elevated heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to cardiovascular strain.

  • Long-Term Effects: Prolonged meth use leads to severe weight loss, dental decay (known as “meth mouth”), skin issues, and significant mental health decline, including paranoia, aggression, and hallucinations.

  • Infectious Disease Risks: For those who inject meth, the dangers multiply. The risk of contracting HIV, Hepatitis C, and other bloodborne diseases adds another layer of urgency to seeking help.

Why Meth Addiction is Different

Methamphetamine addiction presents unique challenges, particularly during withdrawal, which involves severe symptoms like anxiety, extreme fatigue, depression, and even psychosis. These symptoms make it extremely difficult for individuals to quit without specialized support.

Changes in the Brain Caused by Meth Use

Chronic meth use can cause long-term damage to brain functions, particularly in areas controlling verbal learning and memory. Users also face an increased risk of developing neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease. These factors underscore the necessity of targeted treatment for meth addiction, like that provided by Cedar Recovery.

Co-occurring Disorders

Methamphetamine use disorder frequently coexists with mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Cedar Recovery addresses these co-occurring conditions through integrated treatment, ensuring patients receive a “whole-person” approach to care that tackles both their addiction and underlying mental health issues.

An individual therapy session for Meth discontinuation approach.
A concept image of overdose deaths due to drug-alcohol abuse combination

Cedar Recovery’s Comprehensive Treatment Approach

Cedar Recovery’s meth treatment programs offer personalized, flexible care for meth addiction. With tailored treatment plans that combine medical oversight, therapy, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), we help patients overcome the physical and psychological grip of meth.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT plays a crucial role in treating meth addiction. Although medications like Suboxone or buprenorphine are typically used for opioid dependence, they can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and support long-term recovery from meth addiction. Cedar Recovery offers this support through CedarRx, a seamless and stigma-free service that provides convenient access to essential medications.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Recognizing the signs of benzodiazepine abuse is crucial for seeking timely intervention and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, professional treatment can help.

Individual and Group Therapy

Individual therapy provides personalized guidance and support in overcoming challenges and developing coping skills. Group therapy offers a safe space to connect with others, share experiences, and build a recovery network. Both are essential tools for understanding addiction, processing trauma, and achieving lasting sobriety.

Telehealth Services

Cedar Recovery extends its reach to rural areas of Tennessee and Virginia through Studio Health, offering telehealth services for those who cannot easily access in-person treatment. Telehealth allows for continuous care, medication management, and remote consultations, ensuring that everyone, no matter where they live, can benefit from our recovery programs.

Relapse Prevention and Aftercare

We equip you with the tools and strategies needed for lasting sobriety. We’ll help you identify triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong support network. Our aftercare planning includes ongoing therapy, support groups, and connection to sober living communities, empowering you to thrive in all areas of your life.

Young women interacting in park after a drug abuse treatment.

“This place is wonderful. The staff have helped me so much. I highly recommend this facility to help end opioid addiction with compassion and trust.”

Alex – Former Patient

Why Choose Cedar Recovery in Tennessee and Virginia?

  • Compassionate, Expert Care: Cedar Recovery is a leader in meth addiction treatment, offering compassionate and evidence-based care that meets each patient’s unique needs. Our specialized approach ensures that every individual receives personalized treatment that addresses both their addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

  • MAT Expertise: Our expertise in MAT is a cornerstone of our comprehensive treatment approach. By incorporating MAT into our meth addiction programs, we provide patients with an additional layer of support to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, enhancing their chances of achieving lasting recovery.

  • Onsite Pharmacy: One of the key benefits of choosing Cedar Recovery is CedarRx, our onsite pharmacy, which offers a safe and supportive environment for patients to access necessary medications. By eliminating the challenges and stigma often associated with traditional pharmacies, CedarRx makes it easier for patients to receive their medication without added stress.

  • Virtual Treatment: Our telehealth services ensure that individuals in rural or underserved areas can still receive expert care. Cedar Recovery’s innovative approach allows patients to access treatment from the comfort of their homes, making recovery more accessible to everyone.

  • Proven Success: With countless success stories, Cedar Recovery has transformed the lives of many individuals battling meth abuse. Our compassionate, evidence-based approach has given hope to those who once thought recovery was out of reach.

  1. Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Informatics and Analytics. (2024, February 21). 2022 Tennessee drug overdose deaths. Tennessee Department of Health. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/pdo/death-report/2022_Tennessee_Drug_Overdose_Deaths.pdf
  2. Virginia Department of Health. (2023, July). Fatal drug overdose quarterly report. Virginia Department of Health. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/18/2023/07/Quarterly-Drug-Death-Report-FINAL-Q1-2023.pdf

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Get Help for Meth Addiction Now

If you or someone you care about is struggling with meth addiction, Cedar Recovery is here to help. Our compassionate team of experts understands the unique challenges of meth addiction and is ready to guide you towards a brighter future.

Cedar Recovery offers accessible outpatient treatment centers and telehealth services throughout Tennessee and Virginia. We accept most major insurance plans and provide flexible treatment options to fit your needs. Take the first step towards lasting recovery – call us at +1 (800) 799-1450.

Feel Better – Get Better – Stay Better

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