Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful synthetic stimulant drug that produces numerous adverse effects. These effects are both psychological and physiological and impact not only the user but everyone they come in contact with. Emotional instability is one of the common effects of meth use, but does meth make you aggressive? Let’s explore the effect that meth has on emotion states and behaviors that can lead to aggressive or violent actions.
About Meth
Meth is a dangerous central nervous stimulant composed of amphetamine plus a variety of flammable household products. These products are added to create an altered state of reality. The stimulant effects include:
- Euphoria
- Increased confidence
- Hyperactivity
- Increased energy
- Reduced need for sleep
- Reduced appetite
- Increased libido
Meth is known by various names, such as crystal meth, speed, crank, crystal, and ice. Crystal meth is the most potent form of meth. This highly addictive drug can be consumed in various ways. These include being snorted, injected, smoked, or taken in pill form.
Long-term health effects include serious dental problems, skin sores, paranoia, violent behaviors, cognitive problems, and the risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis.
Meth Addiction Symptoms
The effects of methamphetamine are so intense that many become addicted right away. The initial effects cause the person to feel highly energized, confident, and hyperactive. The person may lose their appetite and skip sleep for several days.
Here are some of the common symptoms of meth addiction:
- Unable to control the meth use
- Attempts to cut back or quit meth have failed
- Continue to use meth regardless of the negative consequences
- Becomes obsessed with obtaining and using meth
- Stealing money or items to pay for meth
- Irresponsible behaviors, stops fulfilling obligations
- Impulsive, high-risk behaviors
- Social withdrawal
- Meth cravings
- Mental confusion or signs of psychosis
- Weight loss
- Poor hygiene
- Agitation
- Withdrawal symptoms (meth crash)
Does Meth Cause Aggression or Violent Behaviors?
If you’re wondering, “Does meth make you aggressive?” it’s probably because you’ve witnessed this behavior in yourself or others. It isn’t your imagination. Meth does increase violent tendencies because it destabilizes brain function in the amygdala. The amygdala is usually controlled by the pre-frontal cortex which regulates emotions, which is disrupted by meth use.
This causes erratic emotions and mood swings along with paranoia, a combination that can trigger aggression and violence. Exaggerated and untrue assumptions lead to aggressive actions, as the person on meth believes someone is out to get them. These misguided beliefs fuel volatile emotions like fear, panic, and anxiety, causing the person to lash out.
Why Does Meth Make You Aggressive?
Because meth impacts the limbic system, which then affects the amygdala, it causes unstable mood states. The brain region becomes over-stimulated, causing the person to overreact in an aggressive or violent manner.
Meth-induced psychosis is also a causal factor. The psychosis causes hallucinations and delusions, which can also provoke irrational actions that are out of line with the actual situation. The meth user is overcome with false beliefs due to the psychosis, and this can lead to aggressive conduct.
Other Adverse Effects of Meth
In addition to the unstable mood states and behaviors, there are a multitude of adverse effects caused by meth. This illegal drug is toxic and very hard on the body and the brain. Some of these negative effects include lethargy, aggression, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and suicidal thoughts.
Other long-term effects of meth addiction include:
- Dental decay, referred to as meth mouth
- Skin sores that become infected
- Malnutrition from reduced appetite and weight loss
- Droopy, loose skin
- Legal problems due to high-risk behaviors and neglecting responsibilities
- Mental illness
- Financial problems due to spotty employment
- Increased risk of Parkinson’s disease
- Brain damage
- Accidental overdose
- Increased risk of suicide
Comprehensive Treatment for Meth Addiction
Although it is well known that meth is a dangerous drug to be avoided, people still use it and end up addicted. Once addicted to meth, it is nearly impossible to overcome the addiction without professional support and guidance.
Meth withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Extreme fatigue Agitation
- Mood swings
- Mania
- Intense cravings
- Dry mouth
- Shaking
- Lethargy and sleepiness
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Nightmares
- Increased appetite
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
The most fitting treatment setting for someone seeking help for meth addiction is a residential rehab. Here is what it entails:
- Meth detox. Detox and withdrawal is the first step in recovery. Detox is the process of ridding the body of any meth still in the system. Withdrawal symptoms are difficult to endure without professional oversight, especially the mental health effects of withdrawal. The detox team provides both medical and emotional support.
- Psychotherapy. You’ll participate in both individual and group therapy sessions multiple times per week. During the sessions, you’ll examine any underlying factors that fuel the addictive behaviors, and learn new ways to respond to cravings and triggers. Therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
- Dual diagnosis treatment. Meth addiction often co-occurs with a mental health condition, which is called dual diagnosis. Treatment for both the meth addiction and the mental health disorder will provide during rehab.
- Psycho-social education. You will engage in classes that teach new coping skills for navigating recovery and avoiding a relapse.
- 12-step. Recovery programs like A.A., N.A., or SMART Recovery are often woven into the treatment planning.
- Holistic methods. A holistic focus allows you to heal both mind and body. These activities may include meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture, and art therapy.
Pacific Bay Recovery Provides Integrated Treatment for Individuals Battling Meth
Pacific Bay Recovery is a luxury dual diagnosis and addiction treatment center offering end-to-end treatment services for meth addiction. If you are concerned about the effects of this drug, and wonder, “Does meth make you aggressive?” then we can help. Our team is here ready to provide guidance. Please reach out today either online or by phone at (866) 745-7056.
