Stimulants Detox Center in Memphis, Tennessee

At Detox West Tennessee offering services in Collierville and Memphis, we understand how difficult stimulant withdrawal symptoms can be. We also know that detox is the first vital step into recovery. Substance use disorders take a significant toll on the body, and it needs time to rest and recover when a person stops using a substance like stimulants. We provide a safe, judgment-free space for clients to complete their detox from stimulants so they can begin the rest of their lives.

What are Stimulants?

Stimulant drugs speed up activity in the brain and central nervous system. They affect the brain’s neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals that send and receive signals between brain cells. When misused, stimulants create a sense of euphoria and increased focus and concentration.

Stimulants have some medical value. For example, prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin are often prescribed to patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) because they improve focus and concentration. Still, they have a high potential for addiction. Stimulant addiction can lead to a range of physical and psychological health issues that require professional treatment.

Some stimulants are used medically, but some are illegal. Below is a list of both types.

Prescription Stimulants

• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
• Dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Dexedrine)
• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

Illicit Stimulants

• Cocaine
• Crack cocaine
• Methamphetamines
• Crystal meth
• Bath salts like MDPV and mephedrone

Stimulant Abuse in the U.S.

Stimulant abuse and addiction are growing problems across the United States. A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry reported that five million Americans had misused prescription stimulants at least once, while around 400,000 had a stimulant use disorder. Stimulants are cheap and readily available, which makes them a popular recreational drug of choice. 

Users take stimulants for their social and energy-enhancing abilities; many take prescription stimulants without having an actual prescription. They often use them in nightclub and party settings due to the energy and feelings of euphoria they produce. Some college students also use them as a study aid due to their ability to increase focus. They also allow people to consume more alcohol than usual without feeling as drunk.

What begins as recreational use can soon turn into dependence and addiction. Stimulants cause the brain to produce abnormal amounts of dopamine – the brain’s reward chemical. The more that people take, the more the brain seeks out to achieve that same level of dopamine release.

Regular use of stimulants leads to dependence. When a person develops a dependence, life can become challenging when they don’t take the drug. Routine daily tasks can seem overwhelming. Dependence is dangerous because the more we use a drug, the greater our body’s tolerance to its effects. As such, a user will need to take more of the drug more often to achieve the desired results.

Signs and Symptoms of Stimulant Addiction

Stimulant addiction doesn’t just affect our personal lives. It can also have extreme health consequences.  Individuals who become addicted to stimulants will demonstrate a range of physical and psychological health issues.

Some of the symptoms of stimulant use disorder include:

• Poor dental health
• Sores from picking skin
• Weight loss
• Shakiness
• Heart palpitations
• Sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anxiety
• Irritability and mood swings

Stimulant Withdrawal Symptoms

Stimulant use can lead to dependence and addiction. This can cause difficult withdrawal symptoms when a person tries to stop using. Anyone who has tried to quit using stimulants on their own knows how challenging it can be. Many people relapse because taking a stimulant drug seems to outweigh the challenges of withdrawal.

Stimulant withdrawal symptoms that may occur include:

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Paranoia
• Fatigue
• Increased irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety, risk of panic attacks
• Difficulty sleeping, nightmares
• Headaches
• Aches and pains
• Decreased sensitivity to alcohol
• Hallucinations
• Cravings for the drug

How long stimulant withdrawal symptoms last depends on things like how long the person has had their addiction, the amounts and types of drugs taken, and their physical and mental health at the time of entering detox.

Medical Detox for Stimulant Addiction in Memphis

Our bodies are amazing machines with brilliant healing capabilities. In the long-term, detoxing will improve your quality of life. However, it can be uncomfortable and distressing in the short term, which is why medical experts advise people do not try to detox without professional supervision. People who use a treatment program to detox are more likely to complete the detox process and stay in recovery longer.

At Detox West Tennessee in Memphis, we tailor our detox programs using the latest research and evidence in addiction recovery science to help treat stimulant addiction. We provide around-the-clock medical and psychological support to each client in order to support your physical and mental health issues during this fragile period. 

While detoxing, we can provide you with assistance in determining what your next step should be. You may want to transition into residential or outpatient treatment, depending on your specific needs. 

Stimulant Detox in Memphis, Tennessee

Addiction left untreated can be fatal. Stimulants are life-threatening drugs and require professional help to detox from and enter solid recovery. If you or a loved one suffer from stimulant addiction, we can help you conquer your substance use disorder. We also can help you manage any co-occurring mental health issues that occur during detox. Contact Detox West Tennessee today and we can help you arrange an appointment for your initial assessment and tailor a treatment program that suits your needs.