Methamphetamine, or meth for short, is a highly addictive drug. If there is a narcotic that one should really not mess with, meth is one of those.
Here in the Philippines, the so-called “drug war” have shown how widespread and insidious the shabu trade is. Many raids and arrests involve meth, or what is locally known as shabu.
What is meth?
Methamphetamine, also called meth or shabu, is a highly addictive substance that is relatively easy to produce and sells quickly. After all, those who use this drug easily get hooked in a spiral of meth madness and would want to have increasing amounts of the drug more and more frequently.
The meth “high” is the greatest selling point, wherein users report feeling extreme pleasure, sky-high sense of confidence, and unstoppable focus and energy. They may be awake for days, doing repetitive tasks with laser focus, and never needing food.
The overall feeling of bliss along with confidence is something that many would be easily mesmerized by. That is why they would want to experience these things again and again.
The Levels of Meth Use
There are actually levels of meth use. Depending on how much is being used and how frequently it happens, one can progress quickly up this ladder–or down this addiction trap, to be more precise.
- Low-intensity Use. This is the beginning of meth abuse. They may try meth at first for a variety of reasons, such as for fitting in when a friend urged them to try it. They may have also resorted to meth as a way for them to stay up for a job or to study for an exam. They may have been surprised and yet satisfied on how they accomplished what they have wanted to do when they first tried meth. Then, they would like the euphoria that came with is–and so, would use it repeatedly.
- Regular Use. At this point, they have already selected how they like to use meth, whether swallowing, snorting, smoking, or injecting it. Usually, many opt to smoke it, which allows meth to enter the bloodstream directly and therefore feel the effects faster.
- High-intensity Use. They build a physical and mental dependence on meth. Getting and using the drug is their main goal from the moment they wake up, day after day. It’s taken over their lives until it’s their main, if not only, priority. The highs become shorter and the lows become more terrible and so, they can’t stop the need to use again and again.At this point, many meth users would also go on what is called “meth binges” wherein they would use high amounts of meth with effects that can last them for days. The more they do this, the higher their tolerance becomes until it’s impossible to stop without professional help.
The Danger of Meth Use
No one can tell just how easily a person can fall into the meth addiction trap. One can use for the first time and find themselves quickly hooked. Others can take for years and find the addiction to develop over a longer period. Whatever it is, meth use also has effects that may be different from person to person. Furthermore, the risk of addiction is always there.
If you or someone you know needs help for meth dependence or a full-on meth addiction, feel free to get in touch with us at Bridges of Hope: 09175098826.
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