Detox is physically and emotionally hard. Complications can cause permanent damage to organs and even result in death. Detox should be done in a medical detox center under the watchful eye of doctors and nurses skilled in preventing acute withdrawal symptoms. But people reject detox centers. This article is written with the goal to teach how to help someone through meth withdrawal treatment at home.
Meth Withdrawal Treatment and The Crash
A recreational user will experience a few days of crashing after their last hit of meth. They will sleep for many hours and still feel lethargic when they awake. They often feel irritable and grouchy. The occasional recreational user will not need a lot of help during the crash. Sleep and good food is the best remedy to replenish the neurotransmitters and return to normal.
Meth Withdrawal Treatment for the Dependent User
Those dependent on meth will need more help during meth withdrawal treatment. Withdrawal symptoms can last several weeks and are more severe than those the recreational user experiences. Increased depression, anxiety, insomnia, poor concentration, physical pain, and cravings are common.
Give the dependent user written materials describing common symptoms of withdrawal and a general withdrawal timeline. Learn how to watch for depression and know when to seek help if the person becomes suicidal. Suggest that the dependent user seek help from a doctor to manage severe symptoms, especially severe depression.
Talk to the dependent user about cravings and how to prevent relapse.
Anxiety and Increase of Withdrawal Symptoms
The severity of withdrawal depends on several factors.
- When did meth use cease?
- Severity of dependence
- Length of meth use
- Frequency of meth use
- Physical condition
- Underlying mental health condition
- Underlying physical condition
- Fear and anxiety of withdrawal
If the dependent user has an underlying physical or mental health issue, meth withdrawal treatment needs to be done in a detox center or hospital.
Helping Someone Through Meth Withdrawal Treatment
Although a doctor is the best person to help someone through meth withdrawal treatment, there are things you can do to help someone who chooses to withdrawal at home.
- Tell the person what to expect. Leave written material for review as a person in withdrawal will not remember what you said.
- Make a list of probable symptoms and how they can impact work, family, and health.
- Suggest the person take time off work to manage the more severe symptoms, usually the first 5-10 days of withdrawal.
- Recommend rest, hydration, and nutritious foods to support the body and replenish neurotransmitters.
- Limit visitors.
- Explain how cravings work and make an early intervention and relapse prevention plan.
- Check for severe depression, suicidal behaviors, and severe physical reactions to withdrawal.
When to Seek Professional Help with Meth Withdrawal Treatment
- If the recovering meth dependent experiences problems sleeping for more than a week or two, contact a doctor.
- Anxiety, agitation, and depression are normal in moderation. But if the feelings are ongoing, it puts the person at risk for relapse. Seek professional help.
- Meth withdrawal treatment is the first step in recovery, but not the only one. The recovering meth dependent needs to seek counseling, a 12-Step Program, and relapse prevention.
Have You Completed Meth Withdrawal Treatment and are Ready to Take the Next Step?
If so, Northlake Recovery in Southern Florida can help you take the next step after meth withdrawal treatment. Contact Northlake Recovery at (561)-770-6616 for a free consultation. We will verify your insurance coverage and help you find the best treatment options for you.
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