When you or your loved one decides to face a meth addiction and seek help, it’s important to pursue formal treatment. Breaking a drug habit is both a mental and physical challenge that is difficult to tackle alone. By surrounding yourself with the support of people who know what you’re going through and are trained to help, including doctors, therapists, and peer support specialists, you will be more likely to succeed in your recovery journey.
Step One: Meth Detox
The first step of getting clean is eliminating the methamphetamines from your body. The symptoms of withdrawal are not only difficult to endure, but they can also be medically dangerous. That’s why it’s important to check into a hospital or other medical facility where doctors can supervise you as you go through this part of the process.
Step Two: Inpatient Rehabilitation from Meth
Once detox is complete, the next step is spending 30 to 90 days in an inpatient rehab facility. The type of facility you choose should be based on your personal needs, but cost is also a factor. If you have insurance, check to see what is covered by your plan.
While in the facility, practitioners will assist you in developing a multi-disciplinary treatment plan that will address your physical and psychological addiction, as well as any co-occurring mental health conditions. They will also provide training and education to prepare you for your new, drug-free lifestyle. Options typically include:
- cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- motivational enhancement therapy (MET)
- recreational therapy, including art and music
- individual counseling
- group therapy
- family therapy
- medication assisted therapy (MAT)
- educational courses in addiction and relapse prevention
- life skills training
- job training
Step Three: Outpatient Support for Meth
After rehab ends, ongoing treatment helps a person in recovery by providing daily support and connecting them with other former drug users. In addition to traditional outpatient treatment facilities, free groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA) use the popular 12-step program to mend relationships, build confidence, and reinforce healthy coping mechanisms. Sponsors offer peer support so that people in recovery always have someone to turn to when they need a helping hand or a listening ear.
In addition to attending meetings, former meth users should continue to practice coping mechanisms learned in rehab. Skills like thought stopping, meditating, journaling, and exercising are all effective in controlling cravings and preventing relapse.
Overcoming an addiction isn’t easy, but it is possible. Partnering with trained professionals every step of the way will allow you to detox safely, as well as acquire the skills you need to live a full, happy, and productive life.