Using methamphetamines can trigger symptoms of a mental health disorder or worsen an existing condition.
Article at a Glance:
- Long-term methamphetamine use causes multiple physical health problems and may exacerbate or trigger mental health conditions.
- Meth changes brain structure and can induce psychotic behaviors.
- Anxiety, mood swings and insomnia are additional short-term side effects of meth use.
Meth and Mental Illness
Long-term methamphetamine usecan cause severe physicalside effectsand may also trigger the development of mental health disorders. Conversely, someone may have started using meth to cope with symptoms of amental health disorder. Meth use may also trigger an underlying mental health disorder and cause existing conditions to worsen.
Signs and symptoms of a mental condition are typically present during the “crash,” or come down period after using methamphetamine, and can last for a few days or weeks. depending on the person and the amount of meth they consumed.
Related Topic:How to Tell If Someone is on Meth
Side effects of meth usehave been known to resemble symptoms ofpsychosisandschizophreniain which there is a disconnection from reality. In this state, thoughts and perceptions become disordered.
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Relationship Between Mental Health and Meth
Some common short-term side effects of meth use that resemble symptoms of a mental health disorder include:
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Insomnia
- Substance-induced psychosis
- Anxiety
- Feelings of euphoria
- Increased energy
Common side effectsof long-term meth use that are similar to mental health disorder symptoms include:
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Psychosisand psychotic behavior
- Insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Changes in brain structure and function
- Mood changes
Common Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders With Meth Use
Mental Health and Meth Statistics
People who struggle with meth use disorder may also have co-occurring mental health conditions. In one study,32.3% of participantswith methamphetamine dependence also struggled with a mood disorder. Of those participants,23.8%had substance-induced psychotic disorder.
Related Topic:Meth Rehab Success Rates and Meth Statistics
Treatment for Meth Addiction and Comorbid Mental Health Disorders
Treatment for co-occurring meth addictions and mental health conditions is available atrehab centers across the country, including The Recovery Village. The most effective treatment is evidence-based and personalized to the individual’s needs. If you or a loved one are concerned about methamphetamine use, contactThe Recovery Villagetoday.
