•    Spice
•    K2
•    Chronic spice
•    Spice gold
•    Spice silver
•    Stinger
•    Yucatan fire
•    Skunk
•    Pulse
•    Black mamba
•    Mystery
•    Red x dawn
•    Zohai
•    Mr. nice guy
•    Spicylicious
•    Earthquake
•    Genie
•    K3
•    K3 legal

One can easily see the vast market here and this is just a sampling of the most popular varieties commonly used. They can be purchased in local markets such as gas stations, liquor stores, convenient stores, smoke shops, or even online. They are often sold as incense. Because spice and such other drugs have become such a massive problem in the United States, the sale of the various forms is consistently banned. The manufacturers merely change a molecule of the herbal based chemical and call it by another name and place it right back on the market.

They are said to imitate or mimic the properties of cannabis or marijuana.

This, however, is not entirely true. Hallucinations, seizures, respiratory failure, stroke and heart attacks are a few of the damaging repercussions of the concoction. These repercussions are rarely ever affiliated with marijuana use. The appeal of these drugs is extremely popular among the youth in America. They cannot be detected in a drug test, they are reasonably inexpensive when compared to other popular street drugs, and they are sold legally over the counter. In reality, the metabolites can be traced in human urine but, only when a costly drug test is administered. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case.

Effects of Spice

The effects can be similar to those of marijuana since the psychoactive ingredients are comparable to those of the naturally grown cannabis, a hallucinogen. The duration of the effects varies. Some studies show the effects can last for 10-30 minutes, while others report that the effects are felt for 1-3 hours. What is found to be true across the board with these synthetics is that it takes much less to feel the effects. One may smoke a whole marijuana cigarette to achieve the same effect as that from a single hit or two from the synthetic cannabis. The synthetics have tested up to 5 times more potent that some of the strongest marijuana. The receptors used to manufacture spice bind to the neurotransmitters of the brain. This false sense of euphoria cannot be replicated by the natural dopamine that occurs naturally so, the individual suffers extreme withdrawal symptoms when coming off of spice.

The withdrawal symptoms include tremors, palpitations, headache, nausea, vomiting, depression, and desperation.

Dangers of Using Spice

Until a drug has been thoroughly tested and researched, it cannot be assumed to be safe. This is the case with spice. Not only has it not be sufficiently researched and tested, it has been associated with several health risks. First and foremost, this substance was never meant for human consumption, which the packaging once reflected. What is known it that calls have been made to Poison Control, and area paramedics, trips to the E.R., attempted suicides, and traffic accidents all associated with the use of spice.

With good reason, it is thought to be fairly accurate that spice and similar synthetic cannabis products are toxic to the human body. Their base chemical structure is comparable to that of a known cancer causing agent, according to NIDA, National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The use of spice and other synthetic cannabis are linked to such adverse reactions as:
•         Panic attacks
•         Increased anxiety
•         Heart palpitations
•         Aggression
•         Mood swings
•         Respiratory complications
•         Altered perception
•         Paranoia

At least 2 users in the Dallas, Texas area have suffered heart problems, both linked to the use of spice. The sale of this and similar products has since been banned in Dallas. In Hutchinson, Kansas, 8 – 10 people were hospitalized after smoking the product experiencing hallucination, seizures and bleeding from the nose and mouth.

In Conclusion

It is a good assumption that spice and related synthetic cannabis products of any kind are a serious threat to our society. Though there is extensive ongoing research on these substances, there is congruently enough evidence that they are totally unsafe and harmful. There are no known long term effects yet, only because its research is so new. If you know someone or suspect someone of abusing spice or other synthetic cannabis, please call 800-468-6933.

References:  NIDA, HDAP

Click here for more information on a Narconon rehab program.

Because K2 is so new to the U.S., there is insufficient research documented on it effects. It is, however, known that extremely large doses may cause negative effects that are generally not present with marijuana use. These include agitation, vomiting and hallucinations. Additionally, users suffer withdrawal symptoms not affiliated with marijuana. There have been documented cases of psychotic episodes not associated with marijuana use. Psychiatrists attribute these negative factors to the fact that K2 is synthetic.

History of K2

This cannabinoid-like chemical was developed in labs in order to study neuronal receptors found in the body and brain. There were 5 synthetics formed in order to further other research projects. Then in 1980, Pfizer developed  Cannabicyclohexanol, yet another form of synthetic cannabais.

All of these forms produced cannabis type effects when ingested. These synthetics were found to have anti-inflammatory and anesthetic properties through extensive research at Hebrew University in Israel in 1988. Having analgesic properties, K2 was initially considered for an alternative over the counter pain medication but, because of the complications that quickly ensued, its sale has been banned in the U.S.

Legal vs Illegal

Many countries have already classified K2 as illegal and others are choosing to place regimented control on the drug. The United States, based on the findings of the DEA, Drug Enforcement Agency, considers it to be a “drug of concern”, as there are documented cases of seizures, hallucinations, paranoid behavior, agitation, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, racing heartbeat and elevated blood pressure. Before the U.S. as a whole made K2 illegal, several states independently passed laws within their state making it illegal.

As of March 1, 2011, the sale of K2 is now banned nationwide. There is still very little known about the long term effects.

This ban is considered an emergency ban that will be in effect for a full year while the DEA fully investigates the substance and its actions. This emergency act was imminent as its use was posing a threat to public health and safety, according to the DEA. It is expected that this ban will be permanent based on the findings of the Drug Enforcement Agency.

Signs of K2 Abuse

Generally speaking, those abusing this substance will deny any negative impact. The following is a list created from extensive research to help spot indicators that a loved one may be using this chemical.

•         Negligence of responsibility
•         Relationship problems, be it partner, family members, employer, colleagues and even with friends
•         Legal trouble, i.e. robbery, disorderly conduct, violence
•         Obvious risk taking, driving under the influence, unprotected or unsafe sex, and use of dirty paraphernalia
•         Use of drugs despite the knowledge of its dangers or risks
Addiction Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of drug or alcohol abuse are different.

Unfortunately, the signs are almost always the same, regardless of the drug.

The symptoms vary, however. Things to look for specifically if K2 or spice addiction is suspected are:

•         Insomnia
•         Profuse sweating
•         Manic episodes
•         Internal restlessness
•         Headache
•         Diarrhea
•         Nausea and vomiting
•         Heart palpitations and elevated blood pressure
•         Emotional and personality changes
•         Feelings of depression or desperation

The most evident indicator of any form of drug or alcohol abuse is denial.

Due to lack of rational and discriminative thinking, the user will not recognize their own addiction until it has manifested major problems, be it health, legal or relationship.

The use and abuse of K2 is a major problem and on the rise even still. There is substantial evidence that it’s use is unsafe. Negative related incidents associated with the use of K2 include driving accidents, attempted suicides, and emergency room visits. Though the words, “Not for human consumption” are printed on every parcel, people continue to ingest the substance.

Our youth, here in the U.S. are severely compromised, and even mature adults are playing rushing roulette with this dangerous substance. It is believed to be a relatively safe drug because it has been sold over the counter and its ingredients flew under the radar on drug test. This is so far from the truth, as proven in the above material. This is not something to be taken lightly. If you suspect someone or are someone who is abusing K2, please seek help immediately. The consequences could mean the loss of life. Call 800-468-6933 for more information.

References:
National Institute On Drug Abuse
Wikipedia
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Click here for information on the Narconon detox program.

With a more sophisticated lab, the result can be crystal or “ice” methamphetamine, which is a crystallized form of the drug. The drug may look like small shards of glass. It is purer and thus can be smoked whereas powder meth will not burn well enough for this purpose.

To make powder meth, the kind most commonly made in a small domestic lab, a meth cook needs to have acetone (a flammable and irritating chemical), anhydrous ammonia (which can be fatal if inhaled), Freon (like out of an air  conditioner), sulfuric acid (highly corrosive) toluene (a toxic solvent) and several other chemicals. Many of these chemicals can be obtained at a hardware store or a pool supply store. Pseudoephedrine can be obtained by buying cold medication or by acquiring large shipments from an unethical chemical manufacturer.

Some of these chemicals are very hazardous to humans, and houses where methamphetamine was previously manufactured may be contaminated forever.

Large quantities of crystal or “ice” methamphetamine come across the US-Mexico border from large manufacturing facilities in Mexico. Smaller quantities are made inside the US.

When methamphetamine is sold, it may be called speed, ice, crystal or glass.

Meth can be smoked, snorted or dissolved and injected. Like cocaine, it is a strong stimulant and increases blood pressure, heart rate and respiration. It reduces or eliminates fatigue and appetite. A person using meth may stay up for days and then crash when the body just can’t take it anymore or he runs out of meth.

It is very quick to addict a person and it causes severe physical damage.

Brain scans shows that it makes physiological changes in the brain, and “meth mouth” – the loss of most or all teeth due to severe damage resulting from meth use – is common. A person using meth commonly loses a lot of weight and begins to look gaunt and rough-skinned. A meth addict may pick at his or her face or arms, hallucinating that there are bugs underneath the skin that they need to pick out. Thus they can be covered in small sores.

In 2009, more than 100,000 people in America went to rehab to recover from addiction to methamphetamine, and more than half a million were meth users.

Meth can cause a similar type of brain damage to that done by Alzheimer’s disease, stroke or epilepsy, according to a 2000 study done at UCLA. The meth users in this study had been off meth use for two weeks to 21 months, meaning that the damage done by methamphetamine can last for a long time after the drug stops being used.

One of the most prevalent kinds of damage done by meth is personality change. A meth user ordinarily becomes more aggressive, irrational and paranoid. He will usually stop taking care of his appearance and possessions.

Once a person becomes addicted to methamphetamine, unfortunately, the drug generally becomes the most important thing to the person. With methamphetamine in particular, children and other responsibilities are often neglected. The meth user may become dishonest and commit acts that he or she would never have committed when sober.

The drug and alcohol rehabilitation program at Narconon Arrowhead can help the person who has become addicted to methamphetamine. The program starts right away to heal the body with the use of nutritional supplements. Normally, when a meth addict comes to Narconon Arrowhead for recovery, he is in terrible physical condition, and nutritional supplements calm the body and give it what it needs to start repairing itself.

Relaxing exercises and physical assists help a recovering meth addict through the withdrawal step at the beginning of this recovery program by helping him or her get oriented to a new, safe environment.

It will take time for a methamphetamine addict to recover his or her ability to live a productive, enjoyable life again. Which is why the Narconon program is not limited to a certain time period. A person recovers from the destruction of addiction at his or her own rate.

Whether the drug is methamphetamine or heroin, alcohol or a prescription drug, the Narconon drug and alcohol recovery program provides a safe, effective method of recovery.

For more information call 800-468-6933.

References:

http://methlabhomes.com/meth-lab-chemicals-list/

http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/abuse/drug_data_sheets/Methamphetamine.pdf

http://www.nida.nih.gov/DrugPages/Methamphetamine.html

http://oas.samhsa.gov/2k7/meth/meth.htm

http://wwwdasis.samhsa.gov/webt/NewMapv1.htm

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/03/000328084630.htm

http://teens.drugabuse.gov/mom/mom_meth5.php

Studies have revealed methamphetamine to be the most powerful man made stimulant. Methamphetamine is produced 100% synthetically, meaning it is mostly manufactured in illegal laboratories using a cocktail of dangerous household cleaners, and chemicals. A few of these chemicals include lie, battery acid, antifreeze, and drain cleaner, red phosphorous, as well as lantern fuel. When these chemicals are combined to produce methamphetamine, it is not uncommon for explosions to take place. When 1 pound of methamphetamine is produced, there is about 5 pounds of waste produced from the process. The residual waste left behind can be absorbed into the housing walls, roof, and ventilation system. These toxic residues can cause sickness in the individuals who live around them.

Methamphetamine being the powerful stimulant it is, as well as a potent poison, it initially acts as a very euphoric upper. After the stimulating effects of methamphetamine wear off the toxic residuals begin breaking down the body from the inside out. Based off these facts, methamphetamine is often associated with many health issues and risks are associated with the abuse of methamphetamine including but not limited to:

•         Schizophrenia
•         Heart problems
•         Memory loss
•         Depression suicide
•         Brain damage
•         Psychosis

Methamphetamine and the Narconon Program

Narconon Arrowhead is one of the leading treatment facilities in treating methamphetamine addiction. The Narconon Program carries an over 70% success rate with methamphetamine addiction. This is a proven statistical success rate based 2 years after an individual completes the Narconon Arrowhead Program.  Narconon Arrowhead carries accreditations through the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health, as well as C.A.R.F [Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities]. The Narconon Arrowhead program is a non-traditional program.  Non-traditional meaning that the program does not follow a 12 step philosophy, but incorporates a unique method of treatment encompassing both the physical and mental aspects of addiction.

Narconon Arrowhead has many different options available as far as methamphetamine treatment is concerned.  At the Narconon Arrowhead Program we take a holistic approach and do not use drugs to get a person off drugs.

Narconon Arrowhead has a 24 hr nursing staff on campus. Narconon also has many Certified Chemical Dependency Counselors [C.C.D.C.], as well as Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors [L.A.D.C].  Some of the Certified alcohol and Drug Counselors [C.A.D.C], and some of the other counselors at Narconon have struggled with an addiction themselves. This not only helps the student open up to the counselors, but also helps the students coming into the program really relate to the counselors.

Narconon Arrowhead is a long term impatient treatment facility found in Southeast Oklahoma. The Arrowhead facility is located on Oklahoma’s largest manmade lake; Lake Eufaula. Narconon Arrowhead is located in the back of a 500 + acre Arrowhead state park, and is located 5 miles from the nearest town.

The individualized approach to treatment used here at Narconon Arrowhead contributes to one of the highest success rates of Methamphetamine addiction in the nation.

Narconon Arrowhead is a results driven treatment program. What this means is there is no set time for how long it takes an individual to finish the Narconon Arrowhead program. Every individual student is different, and they individual needs that need to be focused on. The Narconon program is designed around those individual needs of the student. Narconon takes a more one on one approach Instead of the traditional “group therapy” used in twelve step type treatment. Instead of sharing their problems and issues with a group of total strangers, we have found a student is much more willing to open up with a counselor one on one. The Narconon Arrowhead program utilizes a state of the art detoxification regimen, known as the N.L.D.P [New Life Detoxification Program]. The New Life Detoxification Program utilizes a dry heat sauna similar to those found in a health spa, in addition to a structured regimen of vitamin and mineral therapy. Anytime an individual puts any kind substance into their system; there is 2 basic ways the body removes the substances. One is through urine and the second is through sweat. This happens to be why they can test for drug use in an individual’s urine. This is why the sauna program is so very successful. By working with the body’s natural action of flushing out toxic residuals, an individual can get a fresh start after completing the New Life Detoxification program.

Narconon has been treating meth addiction and has a more than 70% success rate for permanent recovery for this addiction. Contact us today at 800-468-6933 for more information.

For more information on Narconon, visit our bookstore and check out Narconon books.

This is what causes the rush after initial use of the drug. But as the synthetic chemical is made through meth, your brain stops making dopamine itself which causes a crash when someone comes down off meth.

In addition, if you use meth for a long time, then you can experience weight loss, dental complications, anxiety, confusion, violent behavior, and more.

You also expose yourself to disease when using meth; such as HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B. Meth also changes your way of thinking so when on meth you can make risky and dangerous decisions that you would not have made if you were clean. There are also plenty of other risks when using meth.

Street names for methamphetamine:
•    Speed
•    Meth
•    Ice
•    Crystal
•    Chalk
•    Crank
•    Tweak
•    Uppers
•    Black Beauties
•    Glass
•    Bikers Coffee
•    Methlies Quick
•    Poor Man’s Cocaine
•    Chicken Feed
•    Shabu
•    Crystal Meth
•    Stove top
•    Trash
•    Go fast
•    Yaba
•    Yellow barn

Effects on the Environment

When people make meth there is a high risk of explosion, in the process of making meth there is at least one step and sometimes more that has heavy risk of exploding. Every pound of methamphetamine produced can harvest five pounds of toxic waste. Some of the chemicals used to make meth contain their own toxicity and have a very high risk of exploding if combined with other chemicals. The cost of cleaning up a meth lab is 2 to 3 thousand dollars per lab, not counting the cost of lowering the property value, and property damage.

Withdrawal from Meth

After using meth for some time, your body can get used to it. So when you stop using or dramatically decrease the amount of meth you are using, your body can go through a withdrawal process. Some of these symptoms include:

•    Depression
•    Exhaustion
•    Dramatic and unpleasant dreaming
•    Insomnia
•    Accelerated appetite
•    Irritation
•    Loss of pleasure in life
•    Cravings for drugs

Your depressed mood may increase and last for weeks. The symptoms listed are just some of the symptoms you may encounter. When you go through withdrawal you will need several day to rest and recuperate.

How Narconon Handles Meth Addiction

Narconon does not believe that addiction is a disease because addiction is curable. We have 70% success rate, we think that if an addict can identify and overcome, the main problem that they were having before their addiction, and then learn how to regain their control they can stay sober.

There are five key factors that we use here at Narconon to make the program affective.

•    First is that we believe addiction can be fully overcome, as mentioned above.
•    Second is that our treatment method that consists of 8 phases that address both the mental and physical aspects of substance abuse.
•    Third, is that our relapse prevention measure taken during the program.
•    Fourth is that we do not you medication for detox.
•    The fifth and final key is that we have a great staff that understands what the people we are treating are going through. Most of our staff has overcome an addiction themselves, so they know what the addict is facing.

Narconon has been successfully treating addicts since 1966. All of our courses and activities here at Narconon will help the addict face life and its problems so that in the future they can handle them without turning to drugs.

A lot of addicts start using drugs because something has happened to them so they turned to them to deal with the pain that is what is known as self medicating. After all of the courses have been complete, there is a review of results and future planning step that has to be done.

This will insure that all of the points of treatment have been addressed and achieved. Then the discharge plan will be finalize. A discharge plan is a plan of action for what you will do when you get home and taking control of any situation you may need to address once you get there. The discharge plan also includes personal goals, such as relationships, and any other personal goals that the person may want to achieve. There is also a plan on what actions should be taken to achieve these goals.

Each graduate of Narconon is contacted during a two year period, so if they run into any difficulties or problems then they can continue to receive help.

The Narconon program is open-ended and achieves a more than 70% success rate for permanent recovery from substance abuse.

Call 800-468-6933 for more information.

References:
www.whitehouse.gov
www.nida.nih.gov
www.justice.gov
www.ag.nd.gov
www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov

Click here for Narconon News.

Meth is the most powerful synthetic stimulant known to man. Methamphetamine is 100% synthetic, meaning it is manufactured in illegal laboratories using a cocktail of dangerous chemicals. A few of these chemicals include antifreeze, lie, battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel, as well red phosphorous. When these chemicals are “cooked” to produce the methamphetamine, explosions are not uncommon. For every one pound of meth that is produced there is a total of 5 pounds of toxic waste left behind. The residual waste left behind is often absorbed into the walls of house, or the ground.

Because meth is such a powerful substance, as well as a potent poison, it initially acts as a euphoric stimulant. After the stimulant effects wear off the toxic residuals start destroying the body from the inside out. This is why so many health risk and issues are associated with methamphetamine abuse including brain damage, schizophrenia, depression, suicide, heart problems, and memory loss.

Short Term Meth Effects

* Increase in blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate
* Nausea
* Psychotic behavior
* Hallucinations
* Reduced Appetite
* Seizure
* Death
* Dilated pupils
* Dry mouth
* Tremors

Long Term Meth Effects

* Stroke
* Severe  psychological dependence
* Damage to the kidneys, liver, or lungs.
* If snorted permanent damage to the nasal cavity.
* If smoked serious issues with the users lungs.
* Severe weight loss.
* Serious damage to the vital blood vessels of the brain and heart, causing death, strokes or possible heart attack.
* Risk of infectious diseases or abscesses if injected.
* Decay of the teeth also known as “meth mouth”.
* Psychosis
* Depression

What Kind of Behavior is Associated with Meth Abuse?

The danger of methamphetamine abuse has become a true epidemic in the United States. Meth is no longer only associated with “poor” “rural” rednecks, but has now penetrated the majority of the United States population. The deeper an abuser dives into meth abuse, the more of their morals go out. With meth abuse comes risky sexual behavior, transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, lying, cheating, stealing, and loss of ambition. These are only a few of the anti-social behaviors that meth addiction can lead to. In the beginning it always starts out as a euphoric pleasurable experience, but eventually leads to a dark, disconnected, and immoral place.

How Narconon Shows Meth Addicts a New Moral Code?

The final course in the Narconon Program is known as the “Way to Happiness” course. This course consists of a set of 21 basic precepts that work to re-establish the moral code that we as people follow in today society. A few of the basic principles included in this course are:

1.      Take Care of Yourself- Although very simple, this precept can prevent the spread of communicable diseases.

2.      Keep Your Body Clean- Germs are often carried by individuals who do not wash themselves regularly. Often times a meth addict pays little attention to this precept.

3.      Preserve Your Teeth- When a person uses methamphetamine their teeth are at great risk, simple because what they are putting in their body is pure poison.

4.      Eat Properly- Meth addicts struggle with this precept because meth causes a huge decrease in appetite.

5.      Get Rest- While high on meth an user is unable to get the proper amount of sleep, because meth is such a powerful stimulant.

6.      Don’t Be Promiscuous- Unsafe sex is often linked to meth abuse, because meth is a proven aphrodisiac.

7.      Love and Help Children- Children are tomorrow’s civilization, and we must provide a bright future for them.

8.      Honor and Help Your Parents- The deeper a meth addict dives into addiction the further they disconnect from those who love them. Often times their parents are the first to suffer because of this.

9.      Set a Good Example- Until a meth addict gets their life back on track they are unable to truly set a good example.

For more information on Narconon call 800-468-6933.

It is a proven fact that long term inpatient addiction treatments have the most positive outcomes. People pay thousands of dollars to get their loved one in a treatment center. Most of the time, an individual has a relapse so he attends another treatment paying more money. Majority of the relapses occur because of the individual’s physical cravings for drugs. Some successful treatments do a detoxification program and clean the person’s body making him totally drug free. Having a clear body and clear mind will get rid of one’s physical cravings for the drugs. To get rid of the mental cravings, some kind of cognitive therapy, and individual counseling should be done. The treatment programs that do both are known for their best success rate.

Narconon Arrowhead is one of the largest and most successful drug rehabs available.  Narconon staff does follow-up on every graduate and over 70 percent have stayed clean and are productive members of society again.  Narconon Arrowhead is located in the back of Arrowhead State Park, and is seven miles from the highway.  Narconon has 24 hour surveillance and a 24 hour security team.  All visitors must be approved by both the student’s financier and counselors.

Narconon does not use drugs as substitute for treatment; as the most common drugs used today are extremely addictive and have many dangerous side effects.  Narconon replenishes the body with vitamins that are lost because of drug addiction.  Staff members also provide assists to help ease the pains of withdrawing from drugs.

Once the addict is safely withdrawn, the next phase of Narconon is to help remove drug residues from the body to drastically reduce physical cravings. One of the most common reasons for relapse is that drug metabolites store in the body’s fatty tissues.  These metabolites can stay in the body for years after the last use.  So when your heart rate increases or a person starts to sweat these metabolites can actually get back into the blood stream and cause a craving that’s strong enough for a person to start using again.  Narconon handles this by using dry saunas.  After being approved by a doctor, students sit in a sauna for 20 minutes then get out for 5 to 10 minutes to cool down and back in, for a few hours a day.  This process lasts from 30-45 days. This technique is used to flush the body of all drug metabolites and leaves a person feeling younger and healthier.

Now that the body is clean of all drugs, Narconon helps your loved one clear his mind.  Narconon uses special techniques that help a person better understand their environment.  Cognitive Therapy is used to help a person come out of their past, take responsibility for it and put it behind them. This is the best way to handle underlying issues that have kept a person trapped in the cycle of addiction.  A person’s condition is continually changing in all areas of their life.  Narconon shows students a way they can break down their life in different categories and use formulas to help them raise their condition.  So no matter what situation life throws at your loved one, they are able to confront it, handle it and continue being successful.

Parents can feel confident that their loved ones will come to Narconon stay in a very safe environment, and learn how to live a drug free life again.  After a person graduates the program they have cleaned their body of all unnatural chemicals.  They have dealt with their personal underlying issues.  They have taken responsibility for their past wrong doings.  They have made amends to their family.  They are now able to know the difference between people that will support their sobriety from the ones who will try to bring them down again.  They will be more confident, happy and are once again productive members of society again.

There is hope Narconon is a inpatient rehab that specializes in teaching people how to overcome their addiction and become a productive member of society once again

Give Narconon a call today at 800-468-6933.

For more information about the Narconon parent center click here.

Methamphetamine also known as crank, speed, crystal, or ice is a potent amphetamine that primarily is a central nervous system stimulant. Meth increases energy level, concentration, alertness, self-esteem, as well as libido.  Studies have shown that high doses of Methamphetamine release up to 12x’s the normal amount of dopamine inside a user’s brain. This flood of dopamine in the brain produces one of the most intense “rushes” of euphoria known to man.

Methamphetamine does not affect all its users in the same way. Methamphetamine can also cause severe hallucinations, paranoia, psychosis, depression, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts.

Methamphetamine Addiction

Addiction is most commonly defined as the compulsive need for, and the use of a habit forming substance, usually accompanied by physiological symptoms when the substance is no longer used. Studies have shown methamphetamine to be one of the most highly addictive mind altering substances. Although the physical withdrawal symptoms themselves may not be as bad as other drugs such as heroin, or benzodiazepines, Methamphetamine has the largest number of people who relapse. The mental aspect of the withdrawal process is where the biggest concern lies.

When an individual ceases using methamphetamine they initial experience extreme fatigue, and an increase in appetite. These initial symptoms usually last for a couple days. The primary concerns include suicide, severe depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease.

Methamphetamine Abuse in the United States

According to recent surveys conducted by NSDUH [National Survey on Drug Use and Health] about 10.4 million people or 4.3% of the population has tried meth more than once in their lifetime. And approximately 1.3 million admitted to using methamphetamine in the past year. Additional surveys revealed that 512,000 individuals reported using meth in the past month. In addition to the surveys conducted by the NSDUH, surveys by the MTF [Monitoring the Future] program revealed that 4.5% of high school students ages 12-18 had used methamphetamine at some point in their life.

In addition to the alarming statistics listed above, DAWN [Drug Abuse Warning Network] studies have shown a huge increase in methamphetamine related visits to emergency rooms across the nation. According to their studies there has been more than a 50% increase in the number of emergency room visits related to the use of methamphetamine between 1995 to 2010.

Treatment facilities have also reported a substantial increase in admissions for meth abuse. With approximately 21,000 treatment admissions in 1992 for methamphetamine abuse, all the way up to 150,000 in 2010. The significant increase just goes to show the seriousness of the methamphetamine epidemic that is sweeping across our nation.

Narconon Therapeutic Training Routines

When an individual is actively using methamphetamine their focus often drifts, they are unable to start an activity and finish it, and their communication skills are often lacking. The Therapeutic and Training Routines Course is a series of communication drills and exercises that take place in a classroom type atmosphere. The communication drills are done with another student, and are supervised by Narconon’s trained counselors. The exercises are practiced up until each person has achieved a new ability to face, confront, and communicate with another person successfully. They will also be able to demonstrate and increased ability to control their focus, and attention span without being totally consumed by their past problems, and issues.

The most commonly experience achievements by our students in this portion of the program include:

1.      A renewed ability to communicate effectively.
2.      An enormous improvement in focus.
3.      Improvement in confidence and self-esteem.
4.      The ability to successfully complete an activity after it has been started.

For more information on Training Routines through Narconon call 800-468-6933.

References:

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addiction

http://www.nida.nih.gov/researchreports/methamph/methamph2.html

www.narcononarrowhead.org

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Here at Narconon, not only do we detoxify the body which eliminates drug and alcohol cravings, we address the life skills necessary to live a sober life. Once the body is rid of the toxins and drug residuals left behind in the fatty tissue, life skill courses are administered to the students to help them with everyday problems experienced by all. These life skill courses are staged in phases so as to progress the student through on a gradient type basis. These courses are all very closely supervised and monitored. A student cannot progress to another stage of the course or to the next phase of the program without getting the previous part of the program totally understood and applied in his own life. This is done to ensure that each student has successfully mastered, each step and can apply it to stay off drugs and alcohol.

The courses are delivered in a sequential pattern so as the student progresses, they are making decisions to the fullest benefit. These concepts and methods have been delivered and been successful to thousands who have sought help through the Narconon program since the 1960s. Founder, William Benitez, felt that by gaining these skills, the drug addict could learn to identify his problems and solve them. With a current success rate of 76%, the Narconon program is among the most successful in the world.

The Narconon program is not based on the theory that alcoholism or drug addiction is a disease. Nor does Narconon support drug substitution therapy to handle substance abuse problems. Rather, Narconon recognizes that addiction results when the body is and has been poisoned repeatedly by inorganic substances and seeks to help get the individual free of these substances. This perspective has been gaining support across the nation.

The Objectives portion of the Narconon program is one of the most important aspects of the treatment and is designed to bring the student into present time. Addicts and alcoholics tend to live and dwell in the past. This inhibits them from making viable decisions. When they are trapped in the past, they disregard the reality of the present.  They, therefore, are not living in present time and are stuck in the past. The Objectives portion of the program is designed to orient the student to his immediate environment. This is accomplished through a series of exercises, known as “objective processes.”

These exercises require the student to really be able to see the world around him. This means they are living in the moment, they are keenly aware of their current situation and surroundings. The simple act of bringing the student into the present is eye opening. Most feel a huge sense of relief and are in high spirits. While, they still remember their past drug use they are not stuck in it to where it is continually effecting their lives negatively.

They have come to realize and recognized where they have made bad decisions in the past and now possess the ability to make rational and wise decisions. This portion of the program is pivotal for almost all of our students. Upon successful completion of this phase of the program, the student is ready to progress through the remainder of the life skills courses.

Objectives are delivered once the client has completed Narconon’s sauna detox program.

For those addicted to meth, this part of the program can help mentally free a person from being stuck in meth use permanently.

For more information contact Narconon at 800-468-6933.

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Meth is a stimulant, Schedule II drug. Stimulants have chemical structures that are similar to the brains neurotransmitters called monoamines. These stimulants increase the level of these chemicals in the brain and body. This causes increases blood pressure and heart rate, as well as constricts blood vessels. This gives the body an increase in dopamine which gives the body a sense of euphoria. When misused, stimulants can be very addictive and can result in irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures and potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures. Taking high doses of stimulants for short periods of time can cause paranoia and hostility in individuals.

Effects of meth

Meth easily dissolves in water to be used intravenously; it can be eaten, snorted or smoked as well. The drug is highly addictive.  The user keeps using despite the negative consequences such as:

•    Loss of ambitions
•    Teeth decay
•    Loss of morals
•    Paranoia
•    Dramatic weight loss
•    Psychotic behavior

Narconon Handles Meth Addiction

When a person uses meth, the drug changes how a person thinks and feels.  When they come off the drug, it leaves them feeling guilty and alone.  The drug causes hallucinations and actually brings a person out of reality so much that a person cannot distinguish what is true and what the drug makes them think is real.

Narconon Arrowhead specializes in helping meth abusers overcome their addiction by using a unique process, which clears the body of all drug metabolites and gives them the tools to stay drug free for a lifetime.

When you come to Narconon, the staff helps you withdrawal from meth with minimum pain and suffering.  First they put you on a routine of vitamins that help replenish the body of lost vitamins due to meth use.  They give light messages that help ease sore bones and muscles caused by meth use. The user then learns better communication skills and patience, which aids in learning how to confront others and life’s situations.

To clear the body of all drug metabolites and other toxins, addicts sit in a dry sauna for 5 hours a day taking 5-10 minute breaks every 20 minutes. They are required to drink up to 2 gallons of water to prevent dehydration.  During this process the user may actually feel some old effects of the drug as they are sweating them out. This process on average lasts 30 days but varies depending on the individual. Once a person has completed this process, they feel younger and more vibrant.  Some have reported that their head is no longer cloudy but clear, and they feel even better than they had before they started using meth.

Now that the body is clear of drugs, Narconon helps a person get their mind clear and guilt free as well. We do this by bringing a person out of their shell, helping them to be aware of what’s around them and regain simple communication skills this leads a person to realize who they are and to feel good about them self again. The associates of meth addicts are generally not the most productive members of society.  They tend to bring a person down and keep them trapped in the same low-life they are in.  Narconon basically teaches users how to identify good people versus evil people.  It gives them an opportunity and “know how” to break free from the people who brought them down, and start associating with people who will support their drug free life and want to see them be successful.  Narconon teaches a person to take responsibility for their past wrong doings in unique ways to make amends with their loved ones and others. Once a person can take responsibility for their actions and be honest with themselves and others, it gives them great relief and well-being. Narconon teaches users they can break life’s situations down into different categories and apply formulas to any situation they encounter to make that situation good for themselves and others around them.

Once a person has completed the Narconon program, they have a new outlook on life.  They understand right from wrong and have the know-how to be a responsible, productive member of society again.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a meth addiction get help today! Call Narconon at 800-468-6933.