
Meth Addiction
Meth is a dangerous, highly addictive stimulant drug that affects about 0.4 percent of the U.S. population. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), meth has been reported as the most significant drug threat to many pacific and west-central areas and police departments. White and crystal-like in appearance, meth derives its effectiveness from forcing the brain to produce heightened levels of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure. Meth can be consumed by snorting, smoking, swallowing it in pill form, or injecting it after it has been dissolved in water or alcohol. The immediate effects of the drug come on and wear off quickly, encouraging repeat usage after crashing. Some users may go on extended binges where they use meth for days—depriving the body of essential sleep and food—inducing hallucinations and paranoia.
Do you or a loved one show signs and symptoms of being an meth addict? Take our free, online and confidential meth abuse self assessment today to find out.
Our Mission
At Rancho Milagro, we believe that addiction can target anyone at any stage in life, and we are here to supply them with the resources and support they need to reach long-term recovery. We provide our residents with many different forms of therapy and healing in a serene, hopeful environment dedicated to their success.
We strongly believe that without treating the individual’s mind, body, and spirit, true recovery cannot be reached. Below are ways that addiction to methamphetamines negatively impacts the whole body and how Rancho Milagro works to repair these relationships through treatment programs.
The Mind
Meth affects the mind in a very destructive way, targeting the reward centers in the brain and allowing those areas to be receptive only to the drug. Each time meth is used, it destroys critical receptors in the brain, rendering users incapable of feeling pleasure without the assistance of meth. As usage continues, the addiction becomes the focal point of the individual’s life. Without it, they cannot feel joy or satisfaction.
Some of the short-term, psychological effects of meth are increased wakefulness or feeling hyper, anxiety, thoughts of violence, and a sense of euphoria. Long-term psychological effects include paranoia, hallucinations, memory loss, confusion, difficulty sleeping, and unhealthy changes in brain structure. Many of these effects restrict the processing center or reward circuit in the brain. People addicted to meth not only become physically addicted but mentally dependent as well. They begin to feel as though they cannot function or process emotions or information without the drug.
Rancho Milagro understands that addiction does not only cause chaos within the body but also inhibits the mind. This kind of stimulation for extended periods can, in some circumstances, cause lasting damage to the brain’s chemistry. We like to remain hopeful that through different forms of therapy, support in groups and from our staff and other professionals, detox, stages of treatment, and every trial you face, you will reach lasting recovery from the foundation we build with you. We offer a quiet, tranquil environment for recovery and healing where you can take advantage of the resources provided for you.
The Body
Like any other stimulant, meth awakens the body and causes it to act in a manic, hyper state. Some long-term effects of the drug depend on the method in which it was consumed. In users who smoke the drug, the harmful chemicals in the smoke can cause tooth enamel to break down and begin to rot. Those who inject the drug are at significant risk for HIV and Hepatitis B and C.
In the short term use, meth can cause rapid heartbeat, sweating, decreased appetite, fast breathing, and increased blood pressure. Long-term effects of meth include extreme weight loss, intense itching and sores from scratching, and severe dental decay. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that studies prove there are connections between those who once abused meth and increased risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Rancho Milagro Recovery is ready to support you through your treatment by teaching you how to care for your body from the initial withdrawal symptoms all the way to your graduation from our program. We have fitness, yoga, cooking classes, hiking trails through our property, massage sessions, and an agility course. We understand that feeling good physically plays a significant role in your motivation to stay clean.
Recovery from meth at Rancho Milagro usually begins with medically assisted detox for those eligible. Our professionals will work thoroughly to make a plan for you to ensure a healthy recovery.
The Spirit
Once an addict uses meth for a long time, it can cause them to become paranoid and have hallucinations. The brain’s natural chemistry becomes radically altered due to the continuous and forced release of dopamine. When an addict’s only source of pleasure is meth, it becomes the center of their lives; their resources, time, energy, and focus are spent on obtaining and using meth. They may no longer seek spiritual guidance or any guidance for that matter. Meth seems to control every aspect of their lives.
At Rancho Milagro, we understand the toll that meth can take on your social and spiritual life. At our secluded ranch, we can ease you back into social life with our loving, devoted staff dedicated to making you feel at home. We can provide a safe environment for both detox and therapy. The treatment process includes group and individual therapy to address the psychological damage caused by meth—both in terms of rehabilitating the mind—and showing recovering users how they can function and grow in everyday life without the compulsion to seek out meth.
Meth addiction can damage every aspect of your life, including body, mind, and spirit. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, Ranch Milagro can walk with you every step of the way while providing essential resources and knowledge to improve and repair your life. Call us today at (951) 526-4582.