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Addiction Treatment Rehab Australia Meth Addiction       
 

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The New FACE of Addiction in AUSTRALIA

Methamphetamine may have at one time been considered “the poor man's cocaine,' but it is no longer solely the domain of the financially challenged. Meth abuse is rampant in Australia, and an increasing number of people across a wide demographic are falling to the serious effects of these horrible drugs.

Known as psychostimulants, the drugs include amphetamines, including methamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy. Many are sniffed or snorted, although some can be swallowed or injected. The more potent, crystalline forms of methamphetamine - ice and crystal - are active only when smoked. As a stimulant, it inhibits the user's need for sleep. It also speeds up metabolism and contributes to extreme weight loss.It also causes a euphoric feeling in the user that leads to lowered inhibitions and increased sexual arousal.

A "meth" user can be described as a perpetually revving engine that eventually burns out and can't be started again until fixed. Addicts have to relearn so many things - things that you and I might take for granted. They have to relearn how to enjoy food. They have to learn how to think again, because on the drug the focus is narrowed. Sex is no longer the same off the drug because when you're on “meth”, everything is so heightened - so intense. That's why the relapse rate is so high. Many people can't break the drug's hold. The pleasure experienced by a "meth addict" during the drug's initial rush is equivalent to 10 orgasms. However, the damage it leaves behind is just as extreme - and, in many cases, permanent.

The abuser will have a variety of cardiovascular problems, including:

Rapid heart rate
Irregular heartbeat
Increased blood pressure
Irreversible, stroke-producing damage to small blood vessels in the brain
Elevated body temperature
Convulsions

Continued use only worsens the damage:

Inflammation of the heart lining
Damaged blood vessels and skin abscesses
Violent behaviour
Paranoia
Anxiety
Confusion
Insomnia
Extreme weight loss
Social and occupational deterioration
Psychotic symptoms, such as visual and audio hallucinations that can persist for months or years after use has ended.
Death.

Meth addiction can also cause something known as meth-mouth.

It affects those who smoke the drug and is caused when the user inhales the heated vapours, which irritate and burn the sensitive skin inside the mouth, creating sores that become infected.

Chronic users suffer from rotten teeth because their tooth enamel erodes.

Snorting the drug also causes "meth-mouth" because the drug drains into the throat from the nasal passages.

Signs of meth-mouth include:

Dry mouth. Meth dries out the salivary glands, which are meant to protect tooth enamel, which protects against cavities.

Tooth decay.
Meth abusers are know for trying to fend off dry mouth by drinking sugary substances. Tooth decay caused by meth abuse typically starts at the gum line and eventually spreads to the entire tooth.
Cracked teeth. The drug can make users feel anxious or nervous, which causes them to grind their teeth, developing cracks in the teeth.
Gum disease. Meth causes the blood vessels in the gums and teeth to shrink, reducing blood flow. This, in turn, causes the tissue to break down and die.

At GATS the increase in Meth Addicts in the last 12 months alone has been 300% from 2 years ago. Not a good sign, however at least some people are starting to get help. If you or someone you love is in the grips of “Meth addiction” call us today for help or how to intervene.
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If you or some you love is in the grips of Meth Addiction  pick up the phone

TODAY and call us Now          08 8363 3392 (7days)
Ask about our family support and education groups 
and our intervention process
    

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