I must admit that ingesting drugs, meth or any other variety, never held much appeal for me. Unfortunately, that is not the case for many people. The effect that drug use has on the body along with the associated “high” keeps some people coming back again and again…wanting more.
So, why can some people use addictive substances casually while others escalate their use until they lose control? It’s a question that has been contemplated for eons and the answer is as complex as the human anatomy. Every person is individual and unique, yet so many find themselves quickly becoming addicted to drugs that it would be wise to steer clear. Better safe than sorry.
Casual Drug Use – Is There Such a Thing?
Given the drug’s immense and rapidly increasing popularity, the question naturally arises: Is there such a thing as casual meth use? The short answer to this query is: Only if you’re very, very lucky. The simple fact is methamphetamine is among the most highly addictive substances known to man. Once a person is hooked, getting and staying clean is incredibly difficult; studies show relapse rates in the 90 percent range.
As with all substances, addiction to crystal meth involves:
1. Loss of control over use
2. Continued use despite adverse consequences
3. Preoccupation to the point of obsession
Most crystal meth addicts have a brief period of casual or recreational use. Usually this escalates rather quickly to abuse, dependency, and addiction. Attempting to use meth (or any other addictive stimulant, such as cocaine) in a casual/recreational fashion is a very bad idea. In fact, it’s a little like playing with matches in a room filled with dynamite. No matter how careful you are, you’re likely to blow the place up probably sooner rather than later.
Of course, most people don’t think they’ll become addicted when they start messing around with an addictive substance. As the article points out, if you’re a “party animal” amphetamine use will have you dancing until the wee hours. But, at what cost?
Still, the life of recovery can seem pretty dull and boring when you’re used to partying all night. It’s critical that an addict replace the high they experience from drug use with a healthy alternative. That could be a hobby, exercise, or learning a new skill. Supporting a non-profit organization by doing volunteer work can provide a tremendous sense of purpose as well. Sitting around pouting over the loss of the party lifestyle is definitely not going to help.
What healthy activities would you suggest for someone new to recovery? Please comment, like and share. Be a part of the solution.
