Crystal Drugs in South Africa

Crystal Drugs in South Africa

“Crystal” is the street name given to crystal methamphetamine, which is a common, highly addictive and dangerous drug in South Africa. Crystal is a stimulant that increases alertness, attention and energy. Crystal users become addicted or dependent as the effect is an intense “rush” and feeling of self confidence and euphoria. This hyperactivity can last for hours, when the effect of Crystal wears off the user is left feeling irritable, tired along with a sense of depression or glum mood which drives the desire for more to avoid the uncomfortable feeling of coming down.

The appearance of Crystal drugs in South Africa is an odourless substance found either in crystals or a finer powder form usually white or brownish in colour and is sold in small bags or straws. Crystal can either be snorted, smoked or injected. Various forms of Crystal drugs in South Africa are popular as it’s cheap and easily found on the streets.

Crystal drugs in South Africa is growing in popularity as its effects are potent and felt immediately

The effects of crystal drugs also include:

• Increased alertness
• Intense feeling of happiness or euphoria
• Increased sense of activity or energy
• Increased feelings of self confidence or self esteem
• Loss of appetite
• Increased sex drive
• Increased sense of contentment or satisfaction.

As a result of the increasing use of Crystal drugs in South Africa, the Crystal addict is often found dealing with the following long-term effects:

• Decreased appetite results in significant weight loss
• Mood swings, irritability and depression
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)and loss of energy
• Loss of interest in hobbies or social interactions (isolation)
• Stomach and muscle cramps
• Damage to nervous system results in tremors in hands, arms head and legs
• Excessive itching of the skin
• “Meth Mouth” deterioration and decay of gum and teeth

Crystal drug addiction in South Africa has increased and developed as a result of the Crystal users need  to continue using as the artificial sense of happiness and euphoria is gone as a result of the sudden onset of withdrawals as a result of the “come down” from the high.

The difficulty of physical withdrawals and psychological cravings lasts long after the Crystal user has stopped using, months later the user could still suffer from cravings for Crystal, leaving the Crystal user trapped in a cycle of using, coming down and seeking again. This compulsive need to use despite the consequences is an indication that addiction may be present, and the very reason for Crystal use in South Africa becoming so common is that once the Crystal user has reached this stage were finding and using is their primary activity.

Contact Crossroads Recovery Centre today for help.

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