The most dangerous stage of use for users,
Police and others is “Tweaking”.
This meth user probably has not slept in 3-15
days and consequently, the symptoms would
be irritability and paranoia. A ‘tweaker‘ needs
no provocation to behave or react violently
and confrontation increases the chances of a
violent reaction. If the ‘tweaker’ is also using
alcohol, negative feelings and associated dangers
intensify.
Several hours after the last meth use, the
individual experiences a drastic drop in mood
and energy levels. Sleep begins and may last
for a long period and, upon awakening, severe
depression may last for days, during which
time, suicide can be a major concern. These
symptoms may be reversed by taking another
dose of methamphetamine, thereby fitting the
definition for a withdrawal syndrome.
When coming off meth use or “crashing”, users
are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms
such as, severe cravings, insomnia, restlessness,
mental confusion or depression, as the
meth is exiting their system.
Meth use also has psychological effects:
disturbed sleep, excessive excitation, excessive
talking, panic, anxiousness, nervousness,
moodiness and irritability, false sense of
confidence and power, delusions of grandeur,
aggressive and violent behaviour, uninterested
in old friends, food, and severe depression.
Excessive meth use can also cause long term
effects such as fatal kidney and lung disorders,
possible brain damage, depression, hallucinations,
disorganised lifestyle, permanent
psychological problems, violent and aggressive
behaviour, weight loss, insomnia, behaviour
resembling paranoid schizophrenia, decreased
social life, malnutrition, poor coping abilities,
disturbance of personality development,
lowered resistance to illnesses, liver damage,
stroke and the inevitable, death. |
