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Methamphetamine Addiction in Maine

The Growing Crisis and Path to Recovery

 

The Rise of Methamphetamine Use in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire

Methamphetamine use has been on the rise in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, leading to devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. Unlike opioids, methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that creates intense euphoria, increases energy, and leads to compulsive use.

Meth is commonly used in Portland, Lewiston, Augusta, and Auburn, and its impact is reaching rural and urban areas alike. Many users smoke meth or inject it intravenously, leading to severe physical and psychological consequences. Chronic meth use is linked to paranoia, psychosis, severe dental decay (“meth mouth”), skin sores, and long-term cognitive damage.

At Connextions Behavioral Health, we offer specialized treatment programs designed to help individuals overcome meth addiction and reclaim their lives. Our PNMI residential program, recovery housing, and outpatient services provide a structured, supportive environment for men and women struggling with stimulant addiction throughout Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Signs and Symptoms of Methamphetamine Addiction

    Physical Signs of Addiction

    • Extreme weight loss and malnutrition
    • Severe dental decay (“meth mouth”)
    • Skin sores and infections from excessive scratching
    • Increased heart rate and high blood pressure
    • Dilated pupils and rapid eye movement
    • Excessive sweating and body odor

    Behavioral Changes

    • Extreme restlessness and hyperactivity
    • Rapid, repetitive speech
    • Aggressive or violent outbursts
    • Staying awake for days at a time (“tweaking”)
    • Increased risk-taking and dangerous behaviors
    • Engaging in criminal activities to obtain meth

    Psychological Symptoms

    • Paranoia and delusions
    • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
    • Severe anxiety and depression
    • Psychosis and extreme mood swings
    • Memory loss and cognitive impairment

How Connections Behavioral Health Can Help

At Connections Behavioral Health, we offer a full continuum of care to help individuals struggling with addiction, from early intervention to long-term recovery.

We Can Help

  1. Outpatient Counseling & Early Intervention

    We provide:

    • One-on-one therapy to assess addiction concerns
    • Group therapy and peer support
    • Family counseling to improve communication and healing

  2. PNMI Residential Program

    For individuals needing structured, immersive care, our Private Non-Medical Institution (PNMI) residential program provides:

    • A safe, supportive environment to begin recovery
    • Individualized treatment plans for substance use and mental health issues
    • Therapeutic support to build coping skills and prevent relapse

  3. Recovery Housing

    For individuals transitioning out of residential care or needing a sober environment, we provide:

    • Accountability and peer support
    • Access to outpatient treatment and recovery resources

  4. Referrals for Detox or Medical Stabilization

    If someone requires hospital-based detox, we assist with:

    • Referrals to ERs or medical detox centers
    • Coordination of inpatient admission if needed
    • Follow-up care to transition into long-term treatment

The Risks and Long-Term Effects of Meth Use

High Risk

Meth addiction takes a severe toll on the body and mind, leading to permanent damage if left untreated.

  • Cardiovascular Damage: Chronic meth use increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
  • Severe Dental Decay (“Meth Mouth”): Meth dries out the mouth, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
  • Brain Damage: Long-term use can cause permanent memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and impaired decision-making.
  • Mental Health Issues: Prolonged meth use can lead to psychosis, paranoia, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Social & Legal Consequences: Many individuals struggling with meth addiction face job loss, homelessness, arrests, and family breakdown.

Due to the severe withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings associated with methamphetamine, professional treatment is essential for long-term recovery.

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The Risks and Long-Term Effects of Meth Use

High Risk

Meth addiction takes a severe toll on the body and mind, leading to permanent damage if left untreated.

  • Cardiovascular Damage: Chronic meth use increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
  • Severe Dental Decay (“Meth Mouth”): Meth dries out the mouth, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
  • Brain Damage: Long-term use can cause permanent memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and impaired decision-making.
  • Mental Health Issues: Prolonged meth use can lead to psychosis, paranoia, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Social & Legal Consequences: Many individuals struggling with meth addiction face job loss, homelessness, arrests, and family breakdown.

Due to the severe withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings associated with methamphetamine, professional treatment is essential for long-term recovery.

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Insurance and Payment Options

If you have another insurance provider, we will work with you to explore coverage options and ensure access to care.

Contact Us

Get Help Today

Serving Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire

If you or a loved one is showing signs of addiction, early intervention can prevent devastating consequences.

At Connextions Behavioral Health, we help individuals in Portland, Lewiston, Augusta, Auburn, and beyond—including New Hampshire and Massachusetts—find the right path to recovery.

Call us today to discuss your concerns and explore treatment options. Help is available now.

(207) 440-7922