An old drug is finding new targets in Florida. Crystal meth, which was once popular in the early 2000s, is making a comeback by finding more users, leading to additional police probes and causing more overdoses.
Meth labs had peaked over a decade ago, and then began to slow down and die off as authorities cracked down on the over-the-counter drugs that were required to make it. Now, a new group is stepping in to supply this drug to Florida residents.
The New Supply of Meth in Florida
Meth, also known as ice, crank, speed and Tina, is no longer being cooked in the stereotypical low-grade, trailer park meth kitchens. Instead, “super labs” in Mexico are making very pure and cheap meth that then gets smuggled into Florida by Mexican cartels.
Making matters worse, this new influx is difficult to detect at the borders because it can be dissolved in containers and beverages, then converted back into crystal form for distribution.
What This Means for Florida
In 2017, Miami-Dade police reported 267 crystal meth seizures – more than triple the number they had just five years ago. Plus, since 2011, there has been a 165 percent increase in meth deaths. So, what does this new potent meth and its fast distribution mean for Florida?
- People are becoming addicted faster
- Experts are finding a higher rate of psychosis
- More overdoses and deaths are occurring
- The drug is being found more often in LGBTQ communities and the South Florida club scene
- There is a customer-rich environment with all of the clubs, parties and events in this area
Why is Meth Popular?
Those who abuse meth believe they have complete control over the drug and no dependence on it. Eventually though, addiction will take over. Meth floods the brain with stimulating dopamine and provides a flash high – an intense but very short lived high – that makes the user come back for more. Those who are addicted to meth will choose the drug over things like eating, sleeping, relationships and activities they used to enjoy.
Signs of Addiction
Signs of meth addiction include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Wild mood swings
- Loss of appetite
- Dramatic, rapid weight loss
- Hyperactivity and/or excessive chattiness
- Unexplained anxiety or depression
- Financial trouble due to seeking meth
Consequences of Meth Abuse
There are many health consequences of using meth – both physically and mentally:
- Weight loss
- Itching
- Skin sores
- Sleep problems
- Overdose and death
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Restlessness
- Hallucinations
- Violent outbursts
- Difficulty learning and thinking
- Memory loss
Fighting the Meth Epidemic in Florida
With the increase in overdoses taking over Florida, the time to reach out for help is now. At Footprints Beachside Recovery, you will receive an individualized treatment plan for meth addiction that can even include alternative therapies – like yoga and art therapy – based on your needs. This holistic approach will provide you everything you need to heal and overcome addiction. Contact us now to begin to get your life back, or learn about the addiction treatment programs we offer.
References:
Crystal Meth Stages Comeback in Miami – More Potent and Dangerous than Ever. Miami Herald. (Dec 29, 2017).
www.FADAA.org. (Accessed August 6, 2018)
