Charger Features

Meth: an increasing problem

Allison Coffey, Charger Staff

Methamphetamine (also known as meth, crystal, speed, and chalk) is a stimulant and a member of the amphetamine family. It affects the central nervous system and increases the amount of at least three chemicals of the brain. It can increase a person’s energy and decrease their appetite, while simultaneously increasing the user’s movement and speech. Meth, in the long run, can ruin a person’s memory, reasoning and verbal learning. These problems can heal after many months without the drug.

Meth was created in 1919 in Japan. Almost thirty years later, a pill was formed that was meant to be taken with prescription only by children who were hyperactive or people who suffered from Parkinson's disease, depression or narcolepsy. During the 50’s, meth became very popular in the United States, despite the fact that it was “prescription only.” As the years passed, meth labs became more and more prevalent.

Meth users began forming their own meth labs in their houses, cars and virtually any place imaginable. It only takes a few hours to make meth, and many of its ingredients are found in household items. It is often produced in open areas in case of explosions. Unusual odors similar to that of fingernail polish remover, blacked out windows and excessive trash are just a few indications that a meth lab is near your house.

Many physical signs indicate that a person is using meth. These include, but are not limited to, grinding teeth, hallucinations, euphoria, extreme energy, dramatic weight loss and paranoia. When a person stops using meth, they suffer from anergia (lack of energy) and anhedonia (a sustained lack of motivation to perform normal tasks and inability to experience pleasure). Whether or not a user suffers slightly or greatly depends on how much of the drug he or she used. A person quitting meth may also suffer from major depression, fear, shaking, sweating and increased appetite. These symptoms can last for a few days to a few weeks, though some may be eased with medications.

If you suspect that someone you know is using meth or any other drug, you can contact the National Drug Information and Treatment Referral Hotline at (800) 662-HELP.