When you tried meth for the first time, there was a rush of euphoria that worked its way throughout your mind and body. But as the high wore off, you realized the consequences of your actions. Not only did you feel worse than you did before taking the drug, but your mouth was filled with residue and there was a horrible aftertaste you couldn’t shake.
That first experience has described your entire relationship with meth. You didn’t see the harm at first, but now it has evolved from an emotional crutch to something you can’t live without. And just when you thought you knew what to expect, the coronavirus (COVID-19) hit our country in full force.
COVID-19 has uprooted major parts of our society and everyone is feeling the impact one way or another. But as someone who is struggling with meth addiction, you may be at greater risk of suffering from the effects of this virus.
How COVID-19 Affects Those Struggling with Meth Addiction
1. Drug Shortages
From closed borders to slowed trade, COVID-19 has slowed or halted businesses and supply chains throughout the nation and between countries. This has caused a shortage of many drugs and chemicals throughout the country, including meth. This has led to the following effects:
1. Increased Cost of Meth
When there is a smaller supply of meth, the cost of the drug goes up. But there’s an added problem. COVID-19 has caused many businesses in the country to shut down, leaving millions of people without an income. These drastic changes have made it harder for people to purchase meth and maintain their addiction.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms
A higher cost that many people can’t afford means increased cases of withdrawal. We know how scary of a thought that can be. After all, one of the main reasons people suffering from meth addiction don’t seek treatment is the fear of withdrawal symptoms. The good news is that drug rehab centers like Fountain Hills Recovery can help you manage those symptoms with expert detox services.
3. Switching to Other Drugs
Since meth has become more expensive and harder to come by, it’s common for people to switch to another substance. The problem is that the most popular drug for people to switch to is fentanyl, a powerful opioid that is one of leading causes of overdose deaths in Arizona.
2. Higher Risk of Contracting COVID-19
In the wake of COVID-19, many of us are suddenly thinking and worrying about our immune systems. Unfortunately, meth can have a variety of negative effects on your immune and respiratory health, leaving you more vulnerable to the virus. Meth has the ability to suppress your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, viruses and bacteria.
Meth also makes you breathe rapidly, putting more stress on your lungs. Over time, this can cause lasting damage. Not only does meth increase your risk for COVID-19, it actually makes the symptoms more severe because of your weakened immune system and lungs.
COVID-19 and Needle Sharing
As you may already know, many people suffering from meth addiction sometimes share needles. While you should never share needles, this practice carries even more risk now because of COVID-19. If you’re part of a clean needle exchange program, you should reach out to see if their services are still open.
3. Social Isolation and Boredom
It might not come as a surprise to know that social isolation is one of the leading causes of meth addiction. And between stay-at-home orders and social distancing, it’s easy to feel alone and disconnected. While it’s normal to have these feelings, they are also dangerous for people struggling with addiction because it can lead to increased abuse. While you might feel like the only way to escape these feelings is by using meth, there’s actually another way that can help you break the cycle of addiction once and for all.
Discover What it Means to Be Yourself Again at Fountain Hills Recovery
We know that COVID-19 has added some complications to your battle with meth addiction. But you have the power to find hope that feels achievable. While you might have thought that finding meth addiction treatment would be more difficult during COVID-19, Fountain Hills Recovery is open and ready to support you in your recovery.
Our luxury addiction treatment center in Arizona gives you the opportunity to start a new sober lifestyle. When you come to Fountain Hills Recovery, we customize our meth addiction treatment to your unique needs. And with help from our expert clinical team, lasting recovery won’t seem so distant anymore.
While meth addiction has taken a lot from you, we can help you build a life you won’t want to escape from. And with all the added risks meth addiction has gained as a result of COVID-19, it’s the perfect time to invest in a healthy change. Contact our expert team today at 888.549.4037. We’re ready to hear your story and help you move forward.
