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32 Crystal Meth Abuse and Addiction Symptoms

How can you tell someone is abusing or addicted to crystal methamphetamine?  Crystal Meth (also called crystal, ice, tina, glass, quartz, tweak, crank) is an extremely addictive stimulant.  It is made from extremely caustic chemicals, which cause damage to any users beyond its simulative effects.

Here are 32 common symptoms of crystal meth abuse to look for:

Physical Symptoms of Crystal Meth Abuse/Addiction

  • Hair loss
  • Tooth decay or tooth loss (from meth mouth)
  • Skin picking and open sores, often on mouth and face
  • Dilated pupils
  • Eye twitching
  • Dry mouth
  • Dry itchy skin, acne
  • Diarrhea and constipation
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Excessive sweating
  • Body odor (smelling of ammonia or cat urine)

Behavioral Symptoms of Crystal Meth Abuse/Addiction

Crystal Methamphetamine affects a person’s behavior as well.  When a person is using or on crystal meth the following behavioral symptoms are common:

  • Attention and focus (often with repetitive compulsive behavior)
  • Insomnia
  • Hyper-activity and wakefulness
  • Talkativeness
  • Decrease in appetite with weight loss

Mental or Mood Symptoms from Crystal Meth Abuse or Addiction    

When a person is on crystal meth, you may notice the following behaviors:  

  • Euphoria
  • Aggression (including fighting or violence)
  • Paranoia
  • Increased libido (often with risky sexual behaviors)
  • Increased self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Greater sociability
  • Delusions of power
  • Hallucinations

When withdrawing from crystal meth, a person may exhibit the following behaviors:

  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability and agitation
  • Severe Depression
  • Increased appetite
  • Excessive sleeping
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Paranoia

In general, crystal meth usually leads to outgoing, energetic, even hyperactive actions while someone is using it.  In contrast, coming down from and withdrawal from crystal meth often leads to exhausted, depressed behaviors.

New Hope Recovery Center treats all forms of substance addictions, including crystal meth addiction and abuse.  There are several treatment programs available to fit you and your loved one’s schedules.  New Hope Recovery Center also hosts numerous Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA) open meetings each week.  If you or a loved one is abusing crystal meth and would like help, you can email [email protected] or call 888-707-4673 (HOPE).

Written by: New Hope Recovery Center