Approximately 421,000 Californians took methamphetamine in 2021. While not everyone who takes this substance will experience psychosis, many of them do. According to a study, about 40% of people who take the substance will experience meth-induced psychosis. If we were to consider this percentage, it would mean that 168,400 Californians experienced this. This is close to the population size of Garden Grove, CA.
At Pacific Sands, we understand how scary it can be to watch someone you love experience meth-induced psychosis. You may worry about their safety, or you may worry about your own. How can you help? What can you do?
We are here to answer these questions.
Understanding Methamphetamine Psychosis: What Is it, Exactly?
Meth-induced psychosis comes with many sudden and intense symptoms, such as agitation and delusions, that typically begin after the person has taken the substance. The symptoms can be distressing and dangerous, and they often resemble symptoms associated with schizophrenia.
It’s important to note that this does not mean the individual who is experiencing methamphetamine-induced psychosis has schizophrenia, though they can co-occur. For most people, psychosis caused by meth will go away after they have stopped taking the substance.
Why Meth Causes Psychosis: Explaining the Link
There can be many reasons as to why taking meth can result in the development of psychosis. The leading cause is as a potential side effect of taking this substance due to how it interacts with the chemicals in the brain. However, some people may be more likely to experience it than others. For example, suppose someone already has symptoms of psychosis from a mental health disorder when they take methamphetamine. In that case, it can result in worsening psychotic symptoms.
Is Meth-Induced Psychosis Different Than Normal Psychosis?
Psychosis is symptoms that result in some loss of contact with reality. When someone is experiencing psychosis, they have a difficult time understanding what is real. It comes with many different symptoms from suspiciousness to difficulty communicating. This experience can occur whether the person has taken methamphetamine or not. More often than not if it occurs when someone has not taken meth, it may be the result of a mental health disorder, sleep deprivation, or some prescription medications.
The difference between these forms of psychosis and one that is meth-induced is the other symptoms that occur alongside it that are indicators of substance use. Symptoms that are specific to meth psychosis include dilated pupils or sores.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Meth Psychosis
Meth-induced psychosis can come with a variety of psychological, physical, and behavioral symptoms. As mentioned above, it can resemble schizophrenia, but it can have symptoms that are different. The symptoms that are the most different between meth-induced psychosis and schizophrenia is the presence of physical symptoms associated with taking stimulants.
Below are a few of the psychological symptoms that someone with meth-induced psychosis may exhibit:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Elevated mood
- Irritability
- Impulsivity
Some physical symptoms they may have include:
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- High body temperature
- Twitching
- Sores or scabs
Alongside these symptoms, they may show some behavioral changes. These may include increased wakefulness, grandiosity, and goal-directed activity.
The Difference Between Methamphetamine Induced Psychosis and Schizophrenia
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines the difference between schizophrenia, co-occurring meth and psychotic disorder, and meth-induced psychosis. Below is a chart that explains these differences:
Schizophrenia
- Presence of delusions, hallucinations, and negative symptoms (social withdrawal, disorganized speech and thinking) etc for at least 1 month
- Level of functioning has decreased
- Signs exist for at least 6 months
- Substance use disorders have been ruled out
Co-occurring Meth and Psychotic Disorder
- Symptoms are more intense than expected while taking meth
- There is a history of psychotic symptoms when meth has not been taken
- Psychotic symptoms occurred prior to the start of taking meth
- Psychotic symptoms continue to exist at least 1 month after meth withdrawal
Meth-Induced Psychosis
- Presence of sudden hallucinations or delusions. Negative symptoms are not common
- Symptoms develop during or soon after taking meth
- Psychotic symptoms do not only occur during delirium
- Psychotic disorders have been ruled out
How Long Does Meth-Induced Psychosis Last?
For most people, meth-induced psychosis symptoms typically last a few days, and the symptoms do not return once the substance is no longer present in the body. There have been some people who have continued to experience symptoms for longer. Others may have been formally diagnosed with a psychotic disorder even after they had not taken meth in some time.
One study found that of the 189 patients they examined, 60% of them no longer had psychotic symptoms after less than a month. However, 10% continued to experience psychosis symptoms after 6 months.
If psychosis lasts longer than a few months, make sure you seek help from a medical professional. Treatment may be necessary to better manage symptoms.
Helping a Loved One with Meth-Induced Psychosis Symptoms
If someone you love is experiencing meth-induced psychosis symptoms, first ensure they are in a safe environment. Remain patient with them, but know that if they become a danger, you have the right to leave or get yourself to safety.
If possible, identify an appropriate time to have a discussion with them. Express your concerns and acknowledge the symptoms you have noticed they have. Listen to your loved one openly and without judgment or threats, but do not enable them to continue taking the substance. Instead, you can help them find a place that can help them recover from a meth use disorder and can safely monitor their psychosis symptoms. These conversations are rarely a one-time occurrence and may need to happen multiple times.
The Best Way to Treat Meth-Induced Psychosis
For most people, once they stop taking meth, they will stop experiencing symptoms of psychosis after a few days. That is easier said than done. When someone has a meth use disorder, it can feel impossible to leave the substance behind. This is where meth rehab comes in.
During treatment, you will learn skills and techniques to make withdrawal symptoms and cravings more manageable associated with a meth use disorder. There will also be medical professionals who will be able to monitor your psychosis symptoms and provide treatment if it is necessary.
If psychosis continues to persist after you have stopped taking meth, treatment for psychosis may include medications, therapy, or a combination of both. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) works well in helping people understand their experiences and apply skills that can reduce the symptoms they are experiencing. This therapy is also used during meth use disorder treatment.
Meth-Induced Psychosis Treatment Is Available in California at Pacific Sands
Perhaps you have tried to seek treatment for a meth use disorder in the past, and you felt like it didn’t work or it was working, but then you returned to use. Taking more time off your busy work schedule probably seems like an impossible request. If you are experiencing meth-induced psychosis, it can feel even more overwhelming as you try to navigate these often uncomfortable symptoms. You want a place where you can feel safe in your environment and where your needs are taken care of. With so many places in California, how can you know which one is right for you?
At Pacific Sands, we are solution-focused. Our team will teach you the skills necessary to better cope with the cravings associated with meth withdrawal and allow you to find a healthier lifestyle, which will enable you to get back to what is most important.
At our high-end and intimate facility, you’ll be greeted by a staff that truly cares. Pacific Sands has a maximum of 6 clients and private rooms. This allows us to spend time tailoring your treatment to you, ensuring you receive the care you deserve. If you have any questions, please call us at 949-426-7962 today.
Pacific Sands – The first step towards a new life.
FAQs About Meth Induced Psychosis
Is there any cure for meth-induced psychosis?
For most people, meth-induced psychosis will go away on its own after a few days. However, sometimes treatment for psychosis is necessary to manage chronic symptoms if they exist for longer than a few months.
