METH WITHDRAWAL

Meth Withdrawal Timeline & Symptoms

Meth addicts can experience severe withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. Understanding the challenges of meth addiction withdrawal could help you or a person you love to gain clarity on their addiction and seek professional help.

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To receive help at our meth rehab centre, contact The Hader Clinic and speak to a recovery specialist. We offer priority admission for patients in crisis. If the situation is urgent, call us.

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Understanding crystal meth withdrawal symptoms

Crystal meth is a powerful central nervous system stimulant. People with a methamphetamine addiction might experience an intense high followed by feelings of invincibility, energy and euphoria.

However, the crash that follows meth use can be just as intense. It’s not uncommon for people to experience feelings of depression, anxiety and paranoia during this period.

Understanding the crystal meth withdrawal timeline and post-acute and protracted withdrawal symptoms can help, and The Hader Clinic is with you every step of the way. Find support for the severe symptoms associated with the methamphetamine withdrawal process today.

The Hader Clinic explains how addicts are not able to predict how much they are going to use once they start using or control their use.

METHAMPHETAMINE WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

If you’re worried about yourself or someone you love, it’s important to understand that help is available, and withdrawal from meth doesn’t have to be a painful experience. The first step is always reaching out and asking for help. Understanding the crystal meth withdrawal timeline can also help motivate someone to seek addiction treatment.

1. Withdrawal Stage (Days 0 to 15)

The first stage of methamphetamine withdrawal can last up to two weeks. The physical symptoms of meth withdrawal in this phase include a wide array of symptoms and intense drug cravings. Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS) typical of this stage include:

  • Flu-like symptoms: sweating, shaking, fever, chills, muscle aches and pains
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Severe depression
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep disturbances
Withdrawal Stage (Days 0 to 15)

2. Early Abstinence Stage (Days 15 to 30)

The early abstinence stage is when meth cravings start to ease. The user may start to experience some relief from their flu-like symptoms, however, they may also show signs of more psychological meth withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety and irritability. Other protracted withdrawal symptoms may include:

  • Feeling restless or jittery
  • Increased appetite
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Insomnia
  • Anger and irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Paranoia and delusions
  • Hallucinations
arly Abstinence Stage (Days 15 to 30)

3. Middle Abstinence Stage (Days 31 to 60)

The third stage of meth withdrawal may last up to two weeks. During this time, the person may be particularly vulnerable to relapse and struggle with other symptoms typical of this stage of meth withdrawal, including:

  • Increased appetite
  • Weight gain
  • Drug cravings
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Nightmares
  • Restless legs syndrome
Middle Abstinence Stage (Days 31 to 60)

4. Late Abstinence Stage (Days 61 to 90)

The fourth stage of meth withdrawal may last up to three weeks. During this time, the person may experience a relapse if they start using again. However, if they stay abstinent, they may start to feel more like themselves again and have more confidence and energy. 

They may also experience:

  • Drug cravings
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
Late Abstinence Stage (Days 61 to 90)

5. Maintenance Stage (Day 90 +)

The fifth and final stage of meth withdrawal is the maintenance stage. During this time, the person is considered to be in recovery and may attend substance abuse support groups and therapy to stay abstinent from crystal meth. 

They may also experience:

  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
Maintenance Stage (Day 90 +)
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METH WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

What are withdrawal symptoms from meth? 

Withdrawal describes the symptoms that occur when a person addicted to meth stops taking the drug. The symptoms of meth abuse vary depending on the person, how long they have been using, and how much they have been using. 

However, there are some common symptoms of meth abuse that many people experience.

1. Flu-Like Symptoms

2. Psychological Symptoms

3. Sleep Problems

4. Changes in Appetite

5. Drug Cravings

If you or someone you love is struggling with meth addiction, please reach out for help from a professional substance abuse treatment facility. The Hader Clinic can provide you with the resources and support you need to overcome this disease. Please call us at 1-888-569-1145 to speak with a member of our team.

Meth rehab Session

Frequently asked questions about methamphetamine withdrawal

What are meth withdrawals like?

Meth withdrawal symptoms can be physical and psychological and vary in intensity. The most common symptoms of crystal meth withdrawal include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

How long does it take to detox from meth?

The time it takes to detox from meth will depend on several factors, including the person's level of addiction, how long they have been using, and how much they have been using. However, most people will start to feel withdrawal symptoms within 24 hours of their last use.

What are the chances of relapse after meth detox?

The chances of relapse after meth detox vary from person to person. However, it is important to understand that relapse is a part of the recovery process for many people.

How do I know if I need rehab?

If you struggle to quit using meth on your own, you may benefit from attending a drug abuse rehab program. Rehab programs provide 24-hour supervision and support, which can be helpful for people who are trying to abstain from meth.

How long does meth withdrawal last?

The duration of crystal meth withdrawal will vary from person to person. However, most people will start to feel withdrawal symptoms within 24 hours of their last use. Symptoms typically peak within 3-5 days, and they begin to improve after that. However, for some people, meth withdrawal can last several weeks or longer.

Which drug has the most withdrawal symptoms?

There is no one answer to this question, as different drugs can cause different withdrawal symptoms. However, some drugs that cause severe withdrawal symptoms include alcohol, heroin, and cocaine.

What happens when you withdrawal?

Withdrawal occurs when a person addicted to a drug stops taking the drug. Crystal meth withdrawal can cause both physical and psychological symptoms. The intensity of the symptoms will vary from person to person. In addition to rehab, mental health services administration may also be recommended.

How can I ease meth withdrawals?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, some people find that certain coping mechanisms, such as exercise, journaling, and deep breathing, can help to ease meth withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, attending a drug abuse rehab program can provide you with the support and resources you need to detox safely.

How to help someone withdrawing from meth?

If you know someone who is withdrawing from meth, the best thing you can do is to encourage them to seek professional help. Additionally, you can provide support and understanding during this difficult time.

How long does it take for withdrawals to hit?

Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 hours of the last use. However, the intensity of the symptoms will vary from person to person.

How long do painful withdrawal methamphetamine symptoms last?

Painful crystal meth withdrawal symptoms, including muscle aches, headaches, and nausea, typically peak within 3-5 days. However, some people may continue to experience these symptoms for several weeks or longer.

How to detox from methamphetamine at home?

Detoxing from meth at home is not recommended as it can be dangerous. If you are struggling to quit using meth, please consider professional help from a medical meth detox treatment facility.

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EDUCATION ABOUT METH WITHDRAWAL

Essendon

Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and Transitional Housing program.

150-152 Cooper St, Essendon VIC 3040
Essendon location
Geelong

Hospital rehabilitation centre for 28-Day Withdrawal & Detox Program.

6-8 Townsend Road,
St Albans Park VIC 3219
GEELONG LOCATION

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