Crystal meth makes millions of people think of the hit TV series, “Breaking Bad.” While the show tells the story of a science teacher’s fall from grace into the dangerous world of meth production, there’s one aspect it doesn’t address: Why is crystal meth so addictive?

It’s a question that more people should know the answer to. After all, according to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 1.6 million people in the country reported using crystal meth.

What is Crystal Meth?

Crystal meth is a type of methamphetamine that has been crystallized. The drug is crystallized to make the amphetamine stronger in lower doses. The main danger of crystal meth is how addictive it can be in a very short amount of time.

Unlike some other illicit drugs, crystal meth can create a strong “high” even after a single “puff” when smoking the drug. Crystal meth can also make you feel an intense depression once the drug wears off. This can cause you to use again to avoid the negative side effects.

What Crystal Meth Does to Your Body

Whether it’s going for a hike or watching your favorite show, your brain naturally releases dopamine to help you feel good. When you use crystal meth, however, the drug triggers a flood of dopamine, causing what is referred to as a “high”. Unfortunately, this high changes how the brain functions, needing more of the drug in order to stay balanced.

Once using crystal meth becomes a habit, your brain adapts to the drug use and expects increased levels of dopamine in order to function normally. This means the healthy amounts of dopamine from activities like exercise no longer cut it and your brain prioritizes meth use over everything else.

Since your brain adapts to crystal meth, it’s almost impossible to regain the intensity of the first use of crystal meth. That’s why it’s common for people to use higher doses of the drug in an attempt to experience that initial high. This behavior can trap you in a cycle of abuse that can be hard to break free of on your own.

The Dangers of Meth Addiction

Crystal meth addiction poses many serious side effects. Some of the most dangerous side effects include the following:

• Bodily deterioration: Crystal meth impacts your physical appearance, causing itchy skin, scabbing, scarring and dental issues.
• Increased body temperature: Crystal meth can actually increase your body temperature. In severe cases, this increase can cause essential organs to shut down.
• Overdose: Fatal overdoses are also common with crystal meth because of the way the brain builds a tolerance and requires more in order to function normally.

You Can Overcome Meth Addiction at Footprints Beachside Recovery

If you’re struggling with a crystal meth addiction, Footprints Beachside Recovery is here to help. Our family-run treatment center in Florida can help you get to the root cause of your addiction so you can move forward. By taking a personalized approach to your recovery, we offer healing to your mind, body and spirit.

You have the potential to break free from the hold that crystal meth has over you. Contact our admission team today to find out how to get started.