Crystal meth detox
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Last Updated:
November 28th, 2023
Choosing to break the cycle of crystal meth addiction and start a new chapter without the drug can feel like a very big step. However, the benefits that come with such a decision are limitless, and this process is a vital one in forging a new life free from crystal meth.
What is crystal meth detox?
A crystal meth detox refers to a process where your body is cleared of all traces of the drug, cleansing your system of any harmful or toxic chemicals as you start on your recovery journey. This can be done naturally by abstaining from the drug, or through a medical detox, where you are weaned off the crystal meth gradually to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms.
What happens during a crystal meth detox?
The first thing that must be done when coming off crystal meth is detoxing from the substance and putting healthy nutrients back into your body with a healthy diet.
As crystal meth is a stimulant drug, users tend to experience an intense sensation of energy and alertness when it is in their system. This means that, after the drug wears off, they will likely undergo a ‘crash period’, feeling exhausted and drained of energy. Following this, users will start to undergo symptoms of acute withdrawal as their body jump-starts the detox process.
While detox might at first seem scary, with the help of trained staff at a specialised facility, a professional detox can greatly help to ease the process. It is recommended that, alongside detox, individuals tackle the more psychological aspects of their condition at crystal meth rehab. Here at Sanctuary Lodge, our facility is designed to help those in our care work together with a common goal, to secure a long and lasting recovery. By participating in these sessions, you can take focus away from your withdrawal and gain motivation and support from others on the same journey.
Withdrawal from crystal meth
If you have decided to break your reliance on crystal meth, you are starting on a journey to health and healing. The first stage in the crystal meth detox process comes with its associated withdrawal, and some of the associated symptoms include:
- Itching sensations on the skin
- Insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Increased appetite
- Psychosis
- Suicidal ideation
Crystal meth detox timeline
To convey more clearly what a detox from crystal meth might look like, we have provided a timeline below, including some of the more common symptoms associated with crystal meth detox and when they typically subside.
Several hours after the last dose…
- Depressive Symptoms
- Nausea
- Cold sweats
- Dehydration
1-7 days after the last dose…
- Low mood
- Fatigue
- Cravings
- Vivid dreams
- Agitated mindset
- Shakes and tremors
- Paranoia
One week onwards…
- Physical symptoms will begin to subside
- Cravings may continue
- Depressive symptoms may also persist
What is the best way to detox from crystal meth?
Wherever you choose to detox from crystal meth, it is vital that you prioritise your safety and exercise caution as you prepare to come off the substance.
As it is difficult to predict just how the body will respond to a crystal meth detox, there are several risks that come from detoxing at home without the twenty-four-hour supervision of medical professionals. In fact, when getting clean at home, it is not uncommon for individuals to find the symptoms of withdrawal too great, turning to depressants such as sedatives to induce sleep. However, with the dosage of such substances not controlled by a doctor, there is a possibility of users becoming simultaneously dependent on these medications as a result. It can also be easy to fall back into addictive behaviours in your own home, surrounded by the triggers to relapse, which can be particularly challenging so early on into sobriety.
Crystal meth detox at Sanctuary Lodge
At Sanctuary Lodge, we understand that the detox process can be uncomfortable as your body learns to adjust. However, there are some highly effective methods that can be put in place to wean you off crystal meth and lessen the severity of symptoms. For this reason, we would always recommend choosing to detox at an inpatient facility.
Some benefits of inpatient detox at Sanctuary Lodge include:
- Round-the-clock medical supervision to ensure that there will be support available to ease those more uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
- Emotional support from clients and our dedicated staff team to give you the motivation to see through your detox.
- Nutritionally balanced meals prepared for you on-site.
- Much-needed space away from all the triggers in your home environment that can make newfound abstinence so difficult.
Let us help you get your life back
Admitting to yourself that you need help to break your dependence on crystal meth is a huge step in regaining control of your life and beginning the process toward a brighter future. Here at Sanctuary Lodge, we have implemented methods to guarantee that the detox process is safe and comfortable, with all the guidance you need to ensure that this process runs as smoothly as possible. With a group of refined staff, all dedicated to setting you on a healthier path, you can rest assured that you will be in the best of care with us. To learn more about the crystal meth detox process, or for any more concerns you might have, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team right away.