How to Rebuild a Reward System After Meth Use

Meth is extremely dangerous for a person's well-being, with short- and long-term mental and physical health consequences that can ensue. Over time, it can negatively affect the brain’s reward system, which makes it even more difficult to break out of the cycle of addiction.

But, with hard work, guidance from professionals, and the healing ability of the brain, it is possible for a person to improve and restore functioning in their reward system after meth use and find a place of lasting healing. This article explores the use of meth, how it impacts the body, and what one can do to rebuild their reward system.

Why Is Meth Addictive?

The main reason that meth is so addictive is because of the overwhelming amount of dopamine that is released upon use, which creates euphoric highs. Over time, a person's sensitivity to rewards and positive feelings that come from everyday life is depleted, leading to feelings of apathy towards things and an intense desire to recreate the high that was experienced with meth. 

The more one uses this drug, the worse this is going to get. Users continue to chase the high, upping their dose until their reward system is damaged.

Some of the short-term effects of meth include:

• An elevated body temperature 
• Feelings of euphoria 
• Fidgeting 
• Hyperfocus
• Increased blood pressure
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased fatigue
• Psychological effects such as hallucinations, paranoia, or anxiety  
• Rapid breathing 

The Long-Term Effects Of Meth

Long-term meth use has extremely dangerous effects, impacting the way a person thinks and feels. It can be difficult to recognize these when one is in the thick of it. 

Meth use can cause cognitive damage. It creates issues with memory, and one might become prone to forget things, not take information in and store it the way others do, and experience a change in their response inhibition. It may make certain tasks more difficult, such as problem-solving, impulse control, and planning. These changes can also affect a person’s relationships with others.

Emotional and mental health damage are other potential consequences. Meth users tend to have higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even psychosis. Due to the changes in brain chemistry that meth causes, it may be even more difficult to address these conditions. It’s common for those struggling with meth to withdraw into themselves and isolate themselves from those who love them as well. 

Healing The Brain

The brain is able to heal itself through a concept known as neuroplasticity. This refers to the incredible ability of the brain to change itself, adapt, form new neural connections, strengthen existing ones, and recover from damage that it has sustained.

Though the process takes time, real change can be accomplished in the brain. There are important steps to take to help the brain recover from the damage that it has sustained over the prolonged use of meth. When a person chooses recovery, they can begin this healing process. 

Professional treatment, support from loved ones, and lifestyle changes are all important factors for recovery. Treatment options such as counseling, behavioral therapy, and support groups will offer necessary guidance and help to foster a sense of community. 

Implementing Incentives

Reward-based incentives can help a person stay committed through meth addiction treatment. Creating rewards for whenever a personal goal is reached can motivate a person to change their behaviors and encourage them about their achievements.

Tangible rewards are one way to accomplish this, such as through points or gifts when certain milestones are met. When a person reaches a sobriety milestone, celebrating it could help its impact set in and keep them feeling motivated to continue down the positive path they are on. While their motivation to change should not be solely tied to a reward, the reward reminds them of the positive changes they are making.

Social recognition can also be beneficial, as it shows that they are being seen by those around them and their efforts are being noticed. This could be by doctors, counselors, friends, family, or peers. A letter, kind words, or a text message can be very encouraging, especially from a loved one.

There are many ways to introduce incentives into one’s recovery journey. For example, one could celebrate six months of sobriety by booking a weekend getaway to reset with activities that are beneficial to recovery, such as hiking or yoga. Or they may have a spa day or take up a new activity such as a cooking class or a fitness program as a reward for completing addiction treatment.

Something as minor as getting a small gift can go a long way as well. Upon reaching one year of sobriety, a personal gift that represents recovery would remind the person how far they have come and what they are capable of. 

Local Meth Addiction Treatment

At Jackson House Recovery Centers, we are here to help others take back their life and recover from addiction and mental health issues. We have a variety of treatment options available and offer a safe space for addiction recovery.

Clients will be guided through the detox process with the help of compassionate professionals. During treatment, both evidence-based and holistic methods are used to promote wellness in the mind and the body.

If you or someone you know is currently struggling with meth addiction, get in touch with us today so we can help you through the healing process.