How To Calm Someone Strung Out On Meth

Methamphetamine is an intense and addictive drug that affects the central nervous system by increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain.

Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a form of meth that looks like glass fragments. Some of the side effects of meth include high blood pressure, violent behavior, and psychosis.

Talking to someone strung out on meth, or letting them know your concerns about their meth use, is likely not the easiest thing. However, here are some tips on how to calm down and talk to someone strung out on meth.

Know The Signs Of Meth Use

Before you ever get into a situation where you need to calm down a loved one who is strung out on meth, it’s important to know the signs of meth use and abuse.

Some of the signs and symptoms of meth use include:

• pupil dilation
• jerky eye movements
• facial twitching
• hyperactivity
• tremors
• weight loss
• tooth decay/meth mouth
• sores on the face/skin
• rapid speech
• intense cravings
• tweaking (anxiety and insomnia)
• mood disturbances

Stay Calm

With someone struggling with meth or crystal meth addiction, you’ll likely want to avoid being combative or aggressive. People are unlikely to change their mind when they’re being yelled at or when someone is coming at them from a place of anger or criticism. 

Try to stay as calm as you can and talk to your loved one with empathy and compassion.

Avoid Blame

It is also important to avoid blaming the person with meth addiction.

If you come from a place of care and love, you are more likely to make a difference. You can talk to them about how the drug negatively affects their life rather than blame them for using.

Choose Words Wisely

When speaking with someone strung on meth, pick your words wisely. 

Try to avoid critical or angry words and make sure your tone isn’t sarcastic, harsh, or aggressive. They will likely not respond well to that. This is especially the case if they have already shown aggressive tendencies. 

Listen

Listening can sometimes be the best and only thing you can do when someone is strung out on meth. 

Remaining calm, quiet, and attentive to what they’re saying can sometimes be the best way to help the person with methamphetamine addiction. This might settle any anxiety or agitation they are feeling and they may be more amenable and open to hearing you out.

Work With Professionals

Sometimes, family and friends don’t have the right skills to calm someone who is strung out on meth. A lot of times, professional help is needed. 

Even if you simply speak to a professional before you talk to your friend or family member, it can be beneficial. They can train you on what to say and how to appropriately address the problem. 

That being said, if your loved one agrees to go to a therapist, interventionist, or mental health provider, that can be even better. A professional can know what to say and what not to say and they may know specific ways to get the person the help they need. 

Don’t Force Recovery

While you might be tempted to force your loved one to go into recovery, that will likely not help them calm down and will certainly not help your relationship. Trying to force them to admit they have a problem can make them more resistant to changing and seeking help. 

It’s better to give them options, hear their viewpoint, and listen to their concerns before even mentioning rehab as the next step.

Respect Their Journey

If you’re trying to help someone who is strung out on meth, try to approach them when they aren’t high on the drug or dealing with intense withdrawal symptoms. 

When someone is high or suffering from withdrawal, you’re unlikely to make progress. Meth use can lead to paranoia and hallucinations and no one dealing with those effects is going to take what you’re saying to heart. 

On top of that, withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and depression can make listening to a friend or family member very difficult. Try to wait until the worse symptoms have passed before bringing up the subject.

Get Help Now

If you or a loved one is struggling with meth abuse, you’re not alone. Ark Behavioral Health is here to help you. We offer a variety of addiction treatment programs including medical detox, inpatient and outpatient care, and aftercare support.

To learn more about the substance abuse treatment options we provide, please call our helpline today.