Meth is Making a Comeback: What You Need to Know
Methamphetamine is not just resurging, it’s evolving. A new wave of high-purity, cartel-produced meth is flooding U.S. illicit drug markets, sparking a surge in public health emergencies that disproportionally impacts Midwestern and rural areas. With overdose deaths tied to stimulants rising amid this wave, it’s more urgent than ever to understand the crisis and help those who are vulnerable to meth addiction find effective treatment.
Sharply Rising Meth Use and Overdose Deaths
Recent data from the CDC shows that psychostimulant overdose deaths, primarily methamphetamines, rose from 10.4 to 10.6 per 100,000 between 2022 and 2023.
In 2022 alone, more than 33,000 deaths were linked to meth/psychostimulant poisoning, an alarming 32% increase over the previous year (DEA). This surge is fueled by cartel-controlled production of highly potent meth, making it more addictive and dangerous than ever.
Additionally, self-detox from meth (quitting cold turkey) has a grim track record, with an over 90% relapse rate for individuals quitting without treatment (SAMSHA).
All of these reports create an alarming picture of the gravity of the crisis exploding in the midst of the opioid epidemic. With an emphasis on healing, backed by a 56-year record of serving hundreds of thousands, Valley Hope provides clinical treatment that is proven, trusted and accessible, with specific approaches to treating patients suffering from meth addiction. Learn more.
A Meth Crisis Impacting Midwest and Rural Communities
The rise in meth addiction is not an urban-only crisis. Meth use has dramatically risen in Midwestern states. Nebraska saw treatment admissions increase by over 200% between 2008–2018, with shocking spikes among older adults – both a 302–556% increase (University of Nebraska). Moreover, rural areas are especially hard hit. States with limited mental health infrastructure report greater meth treatment admissions relative to metro areas.
Looking for effective, compassionate meth treatment in the Midwest? Valley Hope has locations across the Midwest, including in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. Find help near you.
New and Deadly Meth Combinations
The drug supply has become more lethal than ever: meth is increasingly mixed with fentanyl or other substances that intensify overdose risk and complicate treatment (DEA). One especially alarming trend is xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer, is now contaminating street stimulants, leading to severe health complications. Researchers are also noting a dangerous rise in injection-based meth use, escalating infectious disease risk and overdose potential.
Learn more about the Dangers and Effects of Xylaxine.
Common Physical Signs of Meth Addiction
Unsure if you or someone you care about has a meth addiction? The signs appear quickly:
1. Severe Weight Loss
- One of the most visible signs.
- Meth suppresses appetite and disrupts metabolism, leading to rapid, unhealthy weight loss.
2. “Meth Mouth”
- Extensive tooth decay, broken teeth, and gum disease.
- Caused by dry mouth, poor hygiene, teeth grinding, and acidic diet.
- Teeth may appear brown, blackened, or rotted.
3. Facial Sores and Excessive Picking
- Users often experience formication (the sensation of bugs crawling under the skin), leading to obsessive scratching.
- Scabs, sores, and infections, especially on the face, arms, and chest are common.
4. Sunken Eyes and Dilated Pupils
- Eyes may appear glassy, wide, bloodshot or black irises.
- Users often have a staring or hyper-alert expression.
5. Poor Hygiene and Neglected Appearance
- Long-term users may stop bathing, grooming, or wearing clean clothes.
- Hair may be greasy, unwashed, or thinning due to malnutrition or stress.
6. Premature Aging
- Meth accelerates physical aging.
- Users may look 10–20 years older than their actual age due to skin damage, facial gauntness, and overall physical decline.
7. Twitching or Jerky Movements
- Meth is a stimulant that can cause involuntary movements, muscle tension, or repetitive behaviors (like jaw clenching or pacing).
7. Insomnia
- Also known as “tweaking” and lasts for days, look for significant dark circles and hollow eyes.
If you have any of these symptoms from meth use, it is urgent that you seek help immediately. The next use could be your last. Please reach out, many of us have been where you are now. We know the incredible journey that awaits you in recovery. Call us today at (800) 544-5101 to get started.
How Do I Help Someone Caught in a Complex Meth Crisis
If someone you care about is caught in meth’s dangerous web, you can take steps to start the conversation about getting help:
- Educate your loved one the next-level danger, meth’s advanced purity, fentanyl mixing, and injection risks make meth far deadlier now.
- Encourage trusted clinical treatment to enhance better outcomes.
The Valley Hope team is ready 24/7 to guide you and your loved one through confidential, life-saving options.
Valley Hope’s addiction treatment programs are designed for this crisis. Our integrated, multi‑level approach meets each patient where they are at, and includes:
- Safe, medically monitored detox
- Individual and group therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed methods
- Co-Occurring care for mental health and polysubstance use
- Family education and support, rebuilding your support system
- Aftercare and peer support, such as wrap-around Recovery Support Services
Every plan is person-centered and flexible, backed by our over six-decade legacy. We treat meth addiction as the severe, multifaceted crisis it is and as something that can be managed with the right treatment, recovery plan and sober community connections.
Your commitment can make recovery not just possible—but lasting.
Recovery from meth addiction begins when someone says: “I’m ready.” When it’s time, don’t delay. At Valley Hope, the healing begins as soon as you arrive. Start today by calling our compassionate admissions team at (800) 544-5101.