You might have heard reference to a “tina” drug, but does that mean? Tina is a street name for crystal meth, which is part of the amphetamine family of stimulant drugs. And according to a 2018 survey from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAHMSA), 120,000 veterans reported using methamphetamines in the previous year. Among veterans who used methamphetamines, Florida was one of the states with the highest reported use of amphetamines.
This means that meth abuse is a real problem for Florida’s veterans, and we’re ready to help. Today we’re covering the ins and outs of meth addiction and the impact it has on military servicemembers.
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What Is Crystal Meth?
Methamphetamine comes in many different forms. Typically, meth users will either swallow, snort or inject the drug. Unlike other amphetamines, meth can be smoked when in crystal form, resulting in a more intense high.
But what’s in meth itself? Most often, crystal meth is made of different amphetamines and certain ingredients (like pseudoephedrine) found in pills for the common cold. But the ingredients vary from batch to batch, which makes meth abuse especially dangerous. For example, meth can be laced with fentanyl, which can greatly increase the risk for overdose.
Crystal meth is known for its powerful high, which can include intense feelings of alertness and hyperactivity, followed by an even more intense “comedown” period. A typical high can last anywhere between four and 16 hours depending on the dose, during which the user can become extremely aggressive, confused, and paranoid.
Other Names for Meth
The tina drug is one of many street names for meth. Below are some common names used to describe the drug.
- Ice
- Glass
- Crystal
- Crank
- Batu
- Quartz
- Cristy
- Hot ice
- Crystal glass
- Ventana
- Blade
- Shards
Crystal Meth Side Effects
Crystal meth is a synthetic, Schedule II substance, which means that it has been classified as highly addictive with a high potential for abuse. Misusing crystal meth can result in serious health conditions and can often end in overdose and death. Some side effects of crystal meth can include the following:
- Violent behavior
- Anxiety and depression
- Seizures
- Feelings of emptiness
- Nervousness and paranoia
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Overdose and death
Tina Drug Use in Veterans
The use of stimulants like meth or other amphetamines is highly dangerous and is a problem for both civilians and veterans alike. However, crystal meth use amongst veterans is especially worrying, as many military personnel come home with serious physical or mental ailments after serving.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common disabilities in veterans. It is a psychiatric disorder common in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic life event such as a violent accident, combat, or serious injury. For those suffering from PTSD or other mental illnesses common amongst veterans, meth addiction can be especially dangerous.
Crystal meth can worsen the side effects and symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety, hypervigilance, paranoia, and irritability. When someone is addicted to crystal meth and has PTSD, these are called co-occurring disorders. Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders can require specialized treatment, which is what we provide at our DeLand rehab for veterans.
Meth Drug Addiction Recovery at Heroes’ Mile
At Heroes’ Mile in DeLand, Florida, we understand that many veterans struggle with issues that civilians might not understand. This can create a situation where veterans who need help struggle to find care that addresses their unique needs. But at our veteran addiction treatment center, we’ve combined veteran addiction treatment with care for PTSD and other service-related issues to address the needs of every veteran. Heroes’ Mile’s comprehensive treatment options include:
- Medically supervised drug and alcohol detox
- Residential substance abuse rehab for veterans
- Partial hospitalization program for veterans
- Intensive outpatient program for veterans
Our treatment facility is made for veterans and has been created by vets who know exactly what it’s like to serve firsthand. We understand that veterans need a space to recover where they are surrounded by others who share in their life experiences; that’s why we keep veterans on staff who can relate to the real issues you’re facing. The issues that a veteran faces are unique, and to give them the best chance at recovery, they need help from people who know what they’re going through.
If you are ready to end your addiction to crystal meth, give us a call at 888-838-6692. If you’re not ready to talk, you can reach out to us through our confidential contact form, where we are more than happy to take all of your questions, concerns, and recovery goals. Whether you are in the early stages of addiction or at the end of your rope, it’s never too late to focus on your recovery. Whenever you’re ready to leave your tina drug addiction behind, we’ll be here to help.
The post Tina Drug: Crystal Meth Abuse in Veterans appeared first on Heroes’ Mile Veterans Recovery Center.
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Original Author: Zachary Pottle
