Different Stages & Signs of Meth Addiction
Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive central nervous system stimulant. Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that can be made from household medications and liquids. Referred to on the street as ice, glass, crystal meth, or simply meth, it is a growing problem in rural areas of the United States. Meth is considered one of the most addictive substances known to mankind, and several studies have claimed that after nicotine and before crack cocaine, methamphetamine is the second most addictive substance available. Meth destroys the lives of the user and their loved ones, as dependency develops very quickly. However, there are several stages of crystal meth addiction, and seeing the warning signs of meth addiction may save somebody’s life.
Experimentation
The first stage of crystal meth addiction is experimentation. During this stage, the user is trying methamphetamine for the first time. The most common way for a first time user to ingest it is nasally, although meth may be smoked or injected as well. Due to its addictive properties, this stage does not generally last very long in comparison to other drugs.
Habitual Use
During the habitual use stage of crystal meth addiction, the potential addict begins using methamphetamine on a regular basis. As the user begins ingesting the drug more frequently, tolerance begins to develop. In this phase of methamphetamine addiction, the increased tolerance causes the user to need more of the drug in order to achieve the desirable effects, leading them into the next stage.