I recently heard horrible news that I wanted to share. An old dear friend of mine passed away from an overdose of methamphetamines (crystal meth). She was only 32 years old with a long history of drug abuse that consumed her lifestyle.
Crystal meth is a Schedule 1 drug since it is highly addictive. Methamphetamine affects the brain and can create feelings of pleasure, increase energy and elevate mood. Abusers may become addicted quickly, needing higher doses more often. Adverse health effects include irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure and a variety of psychological problems. Long-term effects may include severe mental disorders, memory loss and severe dental problems.
It is certainly important to notice the warning signs if you think someone you know may be using, please click here to see the warning signs of crystal meth use provided by drugfree.org http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/DrugIssue/MethResources/is_my_child.html.
Crystal meth use is also very common in rural settings and is also called the ‘soccer mom’s drug’. Here is a link to commonly asked questions regarding crystal meth use that is pretty interesting to read http://www.raconline.org/info_guides/meth/methfaq.php.
One of the main indicators is horrible face lesions that could certainly be misconstrued as severe acne but should not be ignored. See the faces of meth use here http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/DrugIssue/MethResources/faces/index.html.
If you know of anyone who has a problem with drugs or alcohol, here is a list of hotlines. Let’s help before it is too late.
Drug Policy Information Clearinghouse
Sends out information on drug abuse and publications on national drug policies.
Voice: 1-800-666-3332
Website: http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov
Verified: 10/14/2008
National PRIDE Youth Programs
Trains youth volunteers on how to conduct drug prevention education.
Voice: 1-800-668-9277
Website: http://www.prideyouthprograms.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Verified: 10/14/2008
National Association for Children of Alcoholics
Advocates for children and families affected by alcoholism and other drug dependencies. Helps children hurt by parental alcohol and drug abuse. Newsletter, advocacy, policy making, literature, videos and educational materials.
Voice: 1-888-554-2627
Website: http:www.nacoa.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Verified: 10/17/2008
National Inhalant Prevention Center
Provides information and referrals to persons concerned about inhalants. Literature, training, quarterly newsletter, technical assistance, conducts national inhalant and poisons awareness week.
Voice: 1-800-269-4237
Website: http://www.inhalants.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Verified: 10/14/2008
Addiction and the Family
Provides general information on drug abuse and treatment. Brochures and referrals to crisis counseling. Publications. Affiliated with Phoenix House.
Voice: 1-800-488-3784
Verified: 10/14/2008
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
Information on alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse. Information on prevention, referrals to treatment centers, research, groups, drugs in the work place, community programs, AIDS, addiction and drug abuse.
Voice: 1-800-729-6686
TDD: 1-800-487-4889
Website: http://www.ncadi-samhsa.gov
E-mail: [email protected]
Verified: 10/14/2008
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
Provides information on counseling and treatment services for alcohol or drug abuse. Prevention and education programs. Newsletter.
Voice: 1-800-622-2255
Website: http://www.ncadd.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Verified: 10/14/2008