Trigger Warning: The following content contains references to substance use.
Should I quit smoking crystal meth? I’ve been smoking it for seven years now off and on, while taking recovery breaks after each 3-5 day period of use. During that time I smoke cannabis concentrates instead of meth and do a lot of long distance cycling and mountain biking…
Doing this hasn’t ruined my relationships with any of the family or friends and I haven’t noticed any physical of mental health issues yet. I can’t think of any valid reasons to quit unless I’m preemptively trying to avoid experiencing the same issues that others have had. But so far so good right?
What is your take on this situation?
Thanks. -Anonymeth 👉🏻👌🏻🥸
Hi there,
Seven years is a long time. I am glad to know that you haven’t had any negative effects from this so far. I think it is a great idea to ask yourself why. Why do you like smoking meth? It is an extremely dangerous drug, even if nothing bad has happened to you yet. That is the key word, “yet.” Any addiction can be very dangerous to you physically and mentally. Here is some information on short and long-term effects of meth-use: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/meth-treatment/facts.
People use drugs like meth because it simulates feelings of stimulation and empowerment. It increases the body’s dopamine production (the feel-good chemical). This is not a healthy way to feel good, though. This can cause heart attacks, strokes, organ failure, and even death. Here are the warning signs of a meth overdose: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/meth-treatment/overdose.
There are safer, healthier ways to get that feel-good chemical. For example, cycling is a great place to start since that’s something you do already.
An addiction is a hard thing to cope with, so I strongly suggest getting some extra help. Here is a website that you can use to find treatment centers in your area: https://www.freerehabcenters.org. I am not sure of your location, but this is a helpline for Americans: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/meth-drug-hotline. There is someone available 24/7. There are also professionals that can point you in the right directions. You said that this has not impacted your relationships with friend and family. This is a good thing because you are going to need their support to kick this habit. Everyone needs support, especially when getting healthy.
This may seem like an overreaction--I can understand if that’s what you are thinking. Like you said, you haven’t experienced any side effects. . . but that's only the ones that you’re aware of. You may feel physically fine, but I can assure you that seven years is a long time to keep taking such an addictive substance. Think about it: there’s a reason you haven’t stopped completely. The damage from this drug starts from the inside. Here is some information on the effects of meth-use: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine. Meth-use changes you from the inside-out—this includes the very makeup of your brain. I am certain that the people who love you would hate to watch you lose yourself and become a completely different person. The longer you use, the harder it will be to make healthy choices.
We are here to help, and we only want what is best for you at Asking Jude. So from all of us, please, please, please, take care of yourself.
Stay safe,
Andrea