Of all the addictive substances on the street, there’s one in particular that carries a powerful stigma: crystal meth. Even amongst other drug users, those addicted to meth are looked at askance and given a wide berth. However, meth addiction is a major problems in many regions of the Central Valley, from Sacramento to Stockton. In fact, many reports in the region of Modesto state that meth, one of the most addictive substances that we know of, is more accessible than cocaine or marijuana.
Crystal meth is the most common street form of the substance methamphetamine. Usually, it’s found in the form of crystalline powder, which can be smoked, taken in pill form, snorted, or melted and injected.
It’s true that meth is one of the most addictive substances that we know of, creating dependence in the body after just a few weeks of use. About half of first-time users of meth report cravings akin to addiction afterward. Meth is also closely linked to crime, perhaps because its side effects include psycho symptomatic behavior like paranoia, erratic (and sometimes violent) behavior, lowered inhibitions, and even hallucinations.
The Image of a Meth Addict
The face of addiction is never pretty, but the image often featured in scare-tactic anti-meth PSA’s and ads is especially scary. It is a fact that meth, because of its highly chemical properties, takes a rigorous toll on the body, and can lead to dental problems, damaged skin, and malnutrition. However, many who struggle with crystal meth addiction don’t show these tell-tale signs. People from all walks of life, at all levels of health and functionality, can be addicted to meth.
These purposely disturbing ad campaigns from organizations like the Meth Project have reported dramatic success in Montana and Idaho. Soon, officials in areas like Modesto and Stockton are planning to roll out similar campaigns. But it’s important to consider the ramifications of campaigns like this for people who are currently struggling with meth addiction. What’s troublesome is that this image of a meth addict–of someone who is almost monstrous–perpetuates a potentially harmful stigma of addiction. While it may discourage teens from trying meth for the first time, it also dehumanizes those who are struggling with addiction, further isolating them from family, friends, and acquaintances.
Addiction and Shame
It’s difficult to make a hard judgement on whether scare-campaigns against meth are having the positive effect that we want them to. Most studies show that they do change public opinion towards the drug itself, making more teens believe in the severity and danger of addiction.
However, it can also reinforce the shame and ostracization felt by those who are struggling with addiction. Shame leads to isolation, which is the exact opposite of what patients in recovery need. Additionally, the exaggerated and oversimplified narrative of addiction can quickly unravel. People who are actually encountering the drug are lulled into a false sense of security after their first few encounters don’t turn into the dramatic disaster that the ads claim it will.
It’s becoming clearer and clearer that there are two aspects to addiction: there’s the physical power alone that a drug has, which is what causes all of the physical symptoms of withdrawal. However, there’s also a powerful mental aspect, which is heavily influenced by existing mental problems and the emotional pain that abusers feel. These problems are only made worse by the negative stigma attached to addiction.
Perhaps that’s why the statistics for recovery are so disheartening for people who are addicted to meth. Re-integrating into a sober life is hard if anyone who knows your dirty little secret shuns you. It can be even harder when people who know what it’s like to go through addiction – your support group in recovery – also treat you like a pariah.
You Can Create Your Own Story
For those who are scared by the low sobriety numbers of meth addiction recovery, remember that your journey to recovery doesn’t depend on anyone else’s. Millions have successfully recovered from meth addiction, and so can you. Remember that even if people judge you based on prejudice about what addiction (and meth addiction in particular) means, you are the one who defines who you are as a person.