Dangers of Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, or “meth”, is a potent central nervous system stimulant that is among the top five most addictive, illegal drugs in the world. Meth produces a rush of euphoria, alertness, energy, and feelings of invincibility when used.
Abuse of this drug has recently increased significantly due to its affordability in comparison with other, more expensive stimulants such as cocaine. According to data collected by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, methamphetamine was the second-largest contributor to overdose fatalities in the United States between May 2019 and May 2020. As a stimulant drug, meth increases blood pressure and heart rate to dangerously high levels.
Methamphetamine Side Effects
Long-term methamphetamine abuse causes severe side effects and has the potential to cause permanent, irreversible damage to the user. Such side effects include:
Facial scars or ‘picking’ scars
Weight loss
Liver damage
Memory loss
Paranoia
Tooth decay
Brain damage
Confusion
Hallucinations
Acts of violence
How Nature Immersion Therapy Can Help Treat Meth Addiction
Nature Immersion Therapy has grown increasingly common within addiction and recovery communities in the past few years. This holistic approach stems from ecopsychology, a type of psychological method that fosters an individual’s connection to the earth. Nature Immersion Therapy commonly consists of various techniques and exercises that involve an individual’s presence within nature with the intention of improving an individual’s mental and physical health.
According to the National Institutes of Health, this approach has been found to be useful in the treatment of mental disorders and addiction, as it assists clients in their personal development, and in seeking personal identity. Nature immersion therapy emphasizes a focus on bodily sensations in the current moment, therefore encouraging individuals exposed to nature to be fully engaged with their surroundings.
Throughout an addiction treatment program, clients are encouraged to partake in various individual, group, and holistic therapies. These therapies are combined to improve the client’s behavioral patterns, decision-making, and willfulness against relapse. During the extent of treatment, Nature Immersion Therapy is typically introduced as an additional, alternative therapy option. The holistic approach of nature immersion therapy is beneficial to many in addiction treatment as it successfully separates an individual from their familiar surroundings and the intense pressure that comes with successfully maintaining sobriety.
Nature immersion therapy sessions often involve group hiking, rock climbing, or yoga and give clients a chance to express themselves outside of the treatment facility setting. The physical exertion that comes with Nature Immersion Therapy actively improves mood, relieves stress, restores energy levels, and promotes relaxation. It is common for individuals in the early stages of recovery to experience anxiety, depression, and restlessness. Nature Immersion Therapy combats these feelings by naturally releasing endorphins, the “feel-good” hormone, through exercise and time spent in nature.
Asheville Recovery Center Can Help
Methamphetamine abuse is very dangerous and life-threatening when left untreated. That is why it is extremely important to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with any substance addiction. At Asheville Recovery Center, treatment specialists have developed a unique, hybrid model of treatment which combines a traditional 12-step program with holistic rehabilitation. A multitude of services, programs, and therapies are offered, including the Partial Hospitalization Program, Residential-style treatment, outpatient rehabilitation, and more.
The founders of Asheville Recovery Center, as well as many of our addiction therapists, have struggled with addiction and now enjoy life in recovery. They understand the struggles of addiction and how difficult it is to overcome alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with drug abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call (828)518-6996 and speak with an addiction expert today.
