Tik is the street name for the drug crystal meth. It is a stimulant that is easily accessible, available cheaply and highly potent. Tik is both a very popular drug for recreational use and highly addictive. Tik is heated up and smoked using a glass pipe, or it may be snorted, ingested or injected intravenously. It is widely used in South Africa, and the consequences on the body and mind can be devastating.
The high from tik is described as an intense, euphoric feeling. The user experiences a rush of energy – they feel more alert, confident and have the motivation to accomplish their goals. Other short-term effects include:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Dilated pupils
- Loss of appetite
- Disruption of sleep patterns
- Elevated heart rate
- Weight loss
- Erratic behaviour
- Mood swings
- Violent behaviour
- Risk taking
The longer someone uses tik the less they are able to experience the pleasurable euphoria they felt in their early days of tik use. As addiction takes hold, the effects of tik use become more and more severe. As with any addiction the user is unable to see the cost of their addiction, and an intervention is often required. In most cases by the time an individual does seek help the effects of tik are clear to see and sometimes irreversible. The long-term effects of tik are:
- Severe weight loss
- Aggressive and violent behaviour
- Constant anxiety
- Depression
- In severe cases neurodegeneration
- Toxic psychosis
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Meth mouth (rapid tooth decay and gum disease)
- Cardiac disease
- Kidney damage
- Uncontrollable twitching
- Acne, skin picking and pale skin
The negative effects of using tik very soon outweigh the original desired effect of the drug and this can be seen amongst recreational users as well. Crystal meth is potent, cheap and has a long lasting high, these factors attract many new users but the effects on the body and mind are severe. If you suspect someone may be using tik, it is important to seek out professional help as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one needs assistance with an addiction to crystal meth – know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one but getting yourself or your loved one the best possible care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre, provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope and it’s only a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.
