Highly addictive, methamphetamine burns up the body’s resources and creates a devastating dependence that seems to only be relieved by taking more of the drug. However, NJ detox centers can see-through a safe and lasting divide between you and this dangerous stimulant. Although difficult, you can make it through the stages of recovery with help.
Five Stages of Recovery from Crystal Meth
Stage 1: Withdrawal (Days 0 – 15)
Withdrawal usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks but can last upwards of 4 weeks in extreme cases. Your body and brain are working hard at this point to heal. You will want to spend a lot of time simply resting and eating and drinking to nourish your body.
Stage 2: The Honeymoon (Days 16 – 45)
Your body has made those very needed repairs, and you are feeling physically and emotionally much stronger. You may feel great, better than you’ve felt in years. Unfortunately, this upswing can lead to overconfidence and you might find yourself minimizing your past meth problem. Be wary of overconfidence, as this is a point where many people are tempted to relapse.
Understand this Honeymoon won’t last. However, there’s much to feel good about while it does.
Stage 3: The Wall (6 Weeks – 4 Months)
Forward momentum from the Honeymoon can decline abruptly. A seemingly insurmountable “Wall” of depression, boredom, or despair can be common at about 45 days into sobriety and tends to continue through about month 4. However, it is rare for the Wall to last longer than 3 months. So, remember it’s going to get better.
The Wall is the most common stage for relapse. You may want the feelings of boredom and loneliness to pass so bad that crystal meth may seem like a solution. Don’t worry, your NJ detox centers will help you through this.
Stage 4: Adjustment (Months 4 – 6)
You’ve gotten over the Wall safely and it is now mostly behind you. The next stage is adjusting, physically, socially, and emotionally, to life without crystal meth. There is relief from the overwhelming cravings during this time, and life is interesting again.
Stage 5: Ongoing Recovery (Months 6 – 12)
Toward the end of your first year sober, crystal meth addiction can seem distant to your life. Or, it can be something you continue to think about, fleetingly, almost every day. Like all things on this timeline, it depends. However, despite how foreign it may seem, it’s important to remember that meth addiction is a “chronic disease” that is never cured.
Get Help from NJ Detox Centers
Addiction and substance abuse can be impossible to overcome by yourself, even if you tell yourself that you can stop without help. Being trapped in the vicious cycle of addiction can make you feel isolated and alone. However, the Discovery Institute is here to help. Contact us today to start your detox and begin a healthy, happy life.
Dr. Joseph Ranieri D.O. earned his BS in Pharmacy at Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1981 and His Doctorate Degree in Osteopathic Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1991. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Diplomate of the American Board of Preventive Medicine Addiction Certification. Dr. Ranieri has lectured extensively to physicians, nurses, counselors and laypeople about the Disease of Addiction throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 2012.
