The number of residents in need of crystal meth addiction treatment is on the rise in Missouri, according to the latest reports. Some residents describe trying the drug for the first time with friends, while others say that they got their initial dose from an actively addicted parent. Most start with snorting the drug in bumps or lines, then move to smoking it and ultimately, shooting it, when the high no longer hits as hard as they would like.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety estimates that about 58,000 Missourians are actively addicted to drugs including crystal meth. About 7.5 percent of that 58,000 say that crystal meth or methamphetamine is their drug of choice.

Every year, the number of meth labs seized by law enforcement in Missouri increases. In fact, every year for the past decade, Missouri has come in at number one in the country with more meth lab seizures than any other state.

Steadily, the number of people seeking treatment for crystal meth addiction treatment at Missouri drug rehab centers has increased as well. Just less than 4400 people sought treatment at a crystal meth rehab last year through November, according to the Missouri Department of Mental Health’s Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Compared to the 146 people admitted for crystal meth addiction in 1993, that’s a huge change – but it’s been higher. In 2005, the number of methamphetamine related admissions to drug rehab was higher than 6000, just before the federal government restricted the sale of over-the-counter pseudoephedrine with the Combat Meth Act.

Bob Bax is the director of public affairs for the Department of Mental Health. He says: “We know that methamphetamine use is a serious problem and all treatment programs must be prepared to help those with this addiction. Treatment success is more likely when services focus on the individual person’s needs and recovery means a return to work, stable housing, better relationships and less criminal activity.”

Crystal meth addiction is a bit different to treat than addictions to some other drugs. In some ways, it is more difficult because addicts often relapse after months of sobriety. The cycle of cravings is much longer, leading the addict and everyone around them to believe that they are stable in their recovery when, in actuality, they could relapse any day. If not careful, that relapse could easily turn back into a full-blown addiction if it’s not handled immediately.

If you would like to learn more about the crystal meth rehab program available at Michael’s House, contact us today. We can help you to fight the cycle of cravings and relapse that often plagues those who are living with methamphetamine addiction. Call now for more information.

Tags: crystal meth addict, crystal meth addiction help, crystal meth addiction treatment, crystal meth rehab, meth addict

   

About Valeria W.

       

Valeria W. likes to consider herself "an encyclopedia" of addiction and rehab knowledge. Valeria lives to hear from people who have been positively influenced by her work - and sought out drug or alcohol rehab help as a result of the information she has provided.

Also written by: Valeria W.