Is Meth an Opioid?
Many people get substances and their effects confused. This is understandable, as there are more illicit substances on the streets than ever before. Many people also ask, “Is meth an opioid?” The answer to this is not as simple as one might think. The reason is that many manufacturers and distributors are now putting opioids like fentanyl in substances like methamphetamine.
Is Meth an Opioid? Better Understanding Methamphetamines
The straightforward answer to, “Is meth an opioid?” is no. Methamphetamine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system.
Methamphetamine (also often referred to as “meth”) has become popularized in recent years by its portrayal in popular culture with shows like Breaking Bad. Additionally, meth is highly “affordable” in comparison to many other stimulants such as cocaine. Once upon a time, it tended to be significantly cheaper than other substances like opioids, but that is no longer always the case.
Is Meth an Opioid? Better Understanding Opioids
There remains an opioid epidemic in the United States; one more pronounced since the COVID-19 pandemic. The epidemic has become significantly more deadly since the introduction of synthetic opioids like fentanyl. This is the opioid epidemic.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Overall, drug overdose deaths rose from 2019 to 2022 with 107,941 drug overdose deaths reported in 2022. Deaths involving synthetic opioids other than methadone (primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl) continued to rise with 73,838 overdose deaths reported in 2022. Those involving stimulants, including cocaine or psychostimulants with abuse potential (primarily methamphetamine), also continued to increase with 27,569 and 34,022 respective deaths in 2022.” This last detail is very important because it bridges the gap between opioid and meth use.
Fentanyl is now found in many other illicit substances like meth. This is highly dangerous because people are unaware of what they are putting into their bodies when they use a substance like meth. Also, it only takes a minimal amount of a synthetic opioid like fentanyl to be fatal. This is why being able to spot the signs and symptoms of someone using meth can be critical. It can stop the situation before that fatal overdose takes place.
Is Meth an Opioid? The Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction
While the signs and symptoms of meth use and meth addiction will vary based on the individual, there are some more universal signs to look out for. The following are some of those signs and symptoms:
- Appearing overly nervous, anxious, or “stressed out”
- Not being able to sit still
- Having trouble keeping their hands from shaking
- Struggling with cognitive abilities like memory
- Isolating away from family and friends
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Not being able to sleep (insomnia) or experiencing long periods of sleep (hypersomnia)
- Feeling depressed and lonely
- Having meth-induced hallucinations
- Acquiring co-occurring mental health disorders
- Committing self-harm
- Having suicidal ideations
As one can see, these signs and symptoms can be very serious. This is why seeking professional help as soon as they appear can be critical. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences.
Recovering From a Meth Addiction
The good news is there are many effective ways to recover from a meth addiction. This includes psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies can help individuals start to see the negative way in which they view themselves and the world around them. Then they can start to change these views for the better.
Other effective recovery modalities exist in the experiential realm. Experiential therapies have to do with having “experiences” rather than a sole focus on talk therapy. There are many types of experiential therapies. These include art therapies that focus on creating output and discussion and nature immersion therapy that focuses on how one connects to nature and the world around them.
Lastly, many holistic healing methods can help one recover at the cellular level. One of the most effective holistic healing methods is yoga therapy. Yoga therapy can help one recover physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. As the iconic yogi and spiritual leader B.K.S. Iyengar said, “Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.”
Healing at the Cellular Level With The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in healing at the cellular level. This means healing all of the underlying issues that often lead to alcohol or substance use, rather than just expecting the elimination of these substances to do all of the work.
For over a decade, we have offered the Phoenix Difference – “Empowering individuals and families suffering from addiction and mental health disorders, to celebrate life through lasting solutions.” Recovery is possible. We can help make it a reality.
Many people are confused about what exactly “meth” is. Meth is a highly addictive drug that affects the central nervous system. It also destroys individual lives and the lives of everyone around them. Recently, meth has been found to have traces of synthetic opioids like fentanyl in them. This can lead to overdoses and even overdose deaths. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of mental illness, addiction, or both, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about meth and opioids, please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.
