Meth and Teens

I've been putting this post off for a while because I feel like there's just so much to say about the effects of meth addiction on teenagers. And prepare yourselves, because this will probably be the first of several posts about meth.

While growing up and going to school, I was thoroughly educated about the dangers of drugs like cocaine and heroin, so I've become pretty effectively numbed to the horrible effects that cocaine and heroin addiction can cause. It's like watching an action movie. We're so used to the violence and whatnot that it doesn't shock or surprise us anymore. Well, that's kind of how I feel about cocaine, heroine, ecstasy, LSD, etc. Now, I'm not trying to say that these drugs are safe or don't have serious consequences (because they absolutely do). What I'm saying is that I've just gotten used to hearing about all of the horrible stuff that these drugs can cause. However, meth is a whole different story for me.

Before I started writing this blog, I didn't really know a lot about meth. I knew that it was pretty addictive and that meth labs were super dangerous. But I didn't really know anything about the effects of meth. And let me tell you, I was in for a surprise. I actually intended to write this blog about meth the other day, but after doing about a full day of research on meth, I just couldn't handle it. I needed a break. The effects of meth are so shocking, that I just couldn't think about it anymore.

Meth has become a pretty widespread problem throughout the West Coast of the United States, and it seems to be only a matter of time before its influence spreads all the way to the East Coast as well. Meth is scary because you can become addicted the first time you use meth, and there are some pretty serious consequences that are a result of this addiction. These consequences include hallucination, paranoia, stroke, weight loss, liver and kidney damage, and death from overdose.

Meth is also dangerous because of the ingredients used to produce it. Meth can be made from deadly substances like battery acid, drain cleaner, and antifreeze. Prolonged use of meth can also cause "meth mouth". Meth mouth is pretty gross, and is caused by the corrosive ingredients (like battery acid, etc.) used to make meth. Using meth can result in dry mouth, which contributes to tooth decay, cracked teeth, and gum disease. Many drug addicts simply neglect oral hygiene, which adds to the problems already caused by meth use. In general, meth mouth is not a pretty site. If you want to check it out for yourself, just Google it, but beware, it might gross you out. I can barely look at the pictures.

So all in all, meth is scary. It's insanely addictive and can be devastating to both your health and your appearance. If you or someone you care about has a problem with meth, get help before the effects of meth completely takes over your lives.

Labels: teen-addiction, teen-drug-abuse, teen-drug-help, teen-rehab, teen-substance-abuse

posted by beth @ 11:45 AM