If you have a loved one struggling with addiction, it’s easy to feel lost, scared, and powerless. You may find yourself constantly worrying about their well-being, wondering what you can do to help, and questioning if your actions are making the situation better or worse. It’s a painful and confusing experience, but you’re not alone. The first and most crucial step in this journey is to understand that you have more power than you think. While you cannot control your loved one’s choices, you can control your response and, in doing so, create the necessary environment for change.
The Giving Voice to Addiction podcast, hosted by Terry McGuire, delves into this very topic with seasoned interventionist Sam Davis, who has facilitated over a thousand interventions. Davis emphasizes that families are often “wandering around on this roadmap… with no destination” because they don’t truly understand the nature of addiction. The key to moving forward is to get educated, build a unified team, and approach the situation with a clear, loving, and firm strategy. The following steps, inspired by their conversation, can help you navigate this difficult path toward recovery and healing for your entire family.
1. Acknowledge and Address Your Fear
The first thing to recognize is the profound fear that often paralyzes families. This fear stems from a lack of understanding. When you don’t know what addiction is, you become terrified of its effects—watching your loved one “unravel,” as Davis puts it. It’s a natural reaction to a crisis you don’t understand. However, letting fear dictate your actions can lead to enabling behaviors and a cycle of pain and hope. The solution isn’t to ignore the fear but to confront it by seeking knowledge. As Davis states, “A lot of the fear comes from if I don’t understand something, I’m gonna be afraid of it.” By educating yourself, you can replace fear with a clear-headed strategy.
2. Educate Yourself About the Disease of Addiction
Many families operate on misconceptions about addiction. They may believe it’s a moral failing, a lack of willpower, or something their loved one can simply “snap out of.” However, addiction is a complex disease with emotional, mental, and physical components. Davis defines it as an “emotional and mental crisis.” It’s often rooted in underlying pain or trauma, which a person tries to numb with substances. The mind then starts to lie, creating a cycle where the substance is seen as the only solution, even as it causes more damage.
To effectively help your loved one, you must understand the insanity of the disease. This means recognizing that their choices are not logical and that reasoning with them is often “non-productive.” Understanding this will help you shift your expectations from hoping they will make the “right” decision to taking proactive steps to guide them toward a solution. Start by learning the difference between a casual user and someone who is truly addicted, and seek out reputable resources from scientific journals and government websites to deepen your understanding.
3. Build a Unified Family Team
Addiction affects the entire family, but often, each person has a different idea of what the problem and solution are. This lack of unity leaves the family vulnerable and ineffective. Davis stresses that to confront addiction, you need a team. “Everyone has a different idea what the problem is. Everyone has a different idea what the solution should be,” he explains. To get a successful outcome, the family must be on the same page.
The goal is to unify everyone around a single, informed plan. This starts with a family meeting where you all commit to learning about addiction together. You can invite concerned family members, close friends, or anyone else who has influence in your loved one’s life. This team forms a “corral” around the individual, creating a secure environment where they have less room to maneuver or manipulate. This unified front is essential for implementing boundaries and presenting a clear path to recovery.
4. Create a Plan with a Specific Solution
One of the biggest mistakes families make is approaching their loved one without a concrete plan. Vague questions like, “Will you agree to go to treatment?” are easily deflected. Instead, you need to have a specific solution ready. This means doing the research beforehand to find a suitable treatment facility and ensuring a bed is available. The solution should be a place you believe will provide the best possible care for your loved one, not a place you think they will agree to go. “Families need to understand is like, pick a program where you feel like your loved one is going to get the best care possible, not where you feel like your loved one will agree to go to,” Davis advises.
When researching programs, consider the following:
Length of Stay: Is it a 30-day program, or is there an option for a longer, more intensive stay?
Admissions Team: Do they sound compassionate and knowledgeable, or like a “used car salesman”?
Clinical Approach: Do they offer 12-step immersion or just a basic introduction? Do they provide trauma-informed care or more comprehensive trauma healing?
Family Involvement: Do they have a family program that keeps you informed and involved in the process, or is it just a brief visitation period?
Continuum of Care: What happens after the initial program? Do they offer resources for sober living or aftercare?
Choosing the right program is a critical step, and it should be a decision made by the unified family team, not a negotiation with your loved one’s disease.
5. Learn to Communicate Effectively
Once you have a plan, the next step is to communicate it to your loved one. This is not the time for emotional pleas or blame. It’s about clear, firm, and loving communication. As Davis points out, the more families understand the “manipulation tactics and the thought process of an addicted individual,” the easier it will be to navigate these conversations. The goal is to present the situation and the solution without judgment, focusing on how their addiction has affected you and the family as a whole.
This communication often takes the form of an intervention, which is not about forcing someone into treatment. An intervention is a structured conversation where the family team presents their observations, outlines how the addiction has affected them, and states what they are willing to do (offer treatment) and what they will no longer do (enable the behavior). This approach protects the family’s peace while offering a clear path to recovery.
6. Set and Enforce Boundaries
A crucial part of effective communication is setting clear boundaries. These boundaries are not punishments but a necessary way to protect your well-being and stop enabling your loved one’s addiction. This is often the hardest part for families, who may fear that setting boundaries will cause their loved one to hit “rock bottom.” However, as Davis notes, “As long as families continue to keep them off their emotional bottom… what you’re really doing is removing desperation from an individual that will drive willingness for them to want to change their life.”
Boundaries might include:
Not providing financial support.
Not allowing them to live in your home.
Limiting contact if they are actively using.
The key is to follow through on these boundaries. If you offer a solution and your loved one refuses, you must be prepared to let them experience the natural consequences of their choices. This is the most loving thing you can do, as it allows them to feel the desperation that can lead to genuine willingness to change.
7. Understand and Break the Trauma Bond
Families dealing with addiction are often caught in a “cycle of pain and hope.” You see your loved one struggling, you hope they will change, they make a promise, and you believe them, only to be disappointed again. This cycle creates a trauma bond, a powerful emotional attachment that makes it difficult to make logical decisions. This is why you might find yourself doing things you later regret, like giving them money or bending boundaries you’ve set.
Breaking this trauma bond is essential for your own healing and for your loved one’s recovery. This may require seeking professional help for yourself through therapy, family counseling, or support groups like Al-Anon. By addressing your own emotional needs, you can stop being a “burnout candle trying to light their candle.” You must “light your own candle,” as Davis puts it, so that your light can shine on your loved one and inspire them to seek a better life.
8. Be Willing to Do the Work Yourself
The recovery journey is not just for the person with the addiction; it’s for the entire family. Everything you want your loved one to do—seek help, be honest, and work on themselves—you must be willing to do as well. This means being a model of health and recovery. It means addressing your own pain, attending support groups, and seeking therapy to understand your role in the family dynamic.
Your personal growth is the most powerful tool you have. By focusing on becoming the best version of yourself, you create a healthy and stable environment that your loved one will eventually want to be a part of. This is a journey of self-improvement for everyone involved, and your willingness to do the work can be the catalyst for positive change.
9. Don’t Wait for Rock Bottom
A common misconception is that you have to wait until your loved one hits “rock bottom” before you can intervene. However, as soon as you suspect there’s a problem, it’s time to act. Davis says, “If you think there’s a problem, there’s more than likely a problem. And it’s serious. More serious than you are ready to admit.” Your gut feeling is a powerful indicator that something is wrong.
The sooner you educate yourself and your family, the sooner you can get ahead of the problem. This early intervention may prevent things from escalating to a full-blown crisis. By addressing the issue head-on, you show your loved one that you are committed to their well-being and are ready to create a path toward recovery, no matter how difficult it may be.
Final Thoughts
The path of a loved one’s addiction is filled with pain and uncertainty, but families have more power than they realize. By educating yourself, unifying your family, setting clear boundaries, and being willing to do your own healing work, you can shift from being a passive victim of the disease to a proactive force for change. The most loving thing you can do is offer a clear path to recovery and then step back to allow your loved one to make their own choice. This process is not about “tough love” but about “tough truth,” grounded in a deep love that says, “I will not stand by and watch you destroy yourself, but I will stand by you if you choose to get well.”
The journey to healing is rarely a straight line. For Fausto Castellanos, a clinical counselor and recovery advocate known as “The Hope Dealer,” it was a long and winding road filled with pain, self-blame, and a desperate search for validation. His story, shared on the Recoverycast podcast, is a powerful testament to the idea that our most difficult experiences don’t have to define our future. Instead, they can become the very foundation of our purpose.
From a young age, Castellanos felt a deep sense of unease and a need to be accepted. He recalled, “I always thought that I was less than everyone, so I would always look at like, you know, any older boy for like, um, validation or or direction.” This feeling, rooted in a childhood environment with a narcissistic father and a codependent mother, led him to constantly seek external validation. He would imitate others, chasing a “performance self-worth” that would momentarily mask his internal struggles. This desperate need for acceptance would ultimately lead him down a path of self-destructive behaviors, a journey he now uses to help others find their way back to a place of hope and healing.
1. The Mask of Performance and the Search for Validation
Growing up, Fausto Castellanos learned to be a “chameleon,” constantly adapting his personality to fit in and be liked. This behavior was a direct result of a traumatic experience at age seven, where he was sexually abused by an older boy. He didn’t process it as abuse at the time, but as a young child, he internalized the subsequent cruelty from his abuser as a sign that he had done something wrong. This trauma, combined with an already anxious disposition, led to a deep-seated belief that something was inherently wrong with him.
In a desperate attempt to fix this perceived brokenness, he began to seek out risky behaviors. “That show Jackass came out… and I was like, that’s what I gotta do to fix this. Oh my gosh. I gotta jump off buildings. Just doing all these dares and stuff like that. And again, just trying to seek that, that, that, that, um, my fix validation.” His actions were a cry for help, a way to prove his worth and distract himself from the gnawing pain inside. This pattern of seeking validation through extreme and self-sabotaging acts would continue for years, culminating in a series of shocking events.
2. A Desperate Attempt to Escape: Faking His Own Death
By ninth grade, the pressure of his internal turmoil became unbearable. Castellanos found a new way to cope: skipping school. He would feign illness, often using a history of epilepsy from a childhood concussion to manipulate his mother into letting him stay home. This temporary escape, however, was not enough. He was still haunted by the fear that everyone at school knew his secret. It was at this point that he came up with a “bright idea to fake my own death.”
Using his skills in videography, he created a video of a car crash he found online, superimposed a childhood picture of himself, and added emotional music from the band Incubus. The plan, however, was a disaster. “People show up to my house to give my mom condolences and they see I’m, I’m the one opening the door.” The failed attempt at faking his death led to even more desperate measures.
In a misguided attempt to get more time off from school, he told his teacher he was “hearing voices to hurt people.” This lie backfired spectacularly, leading to a 5150 hold—a mandatory 72-hour psychiatric detention in San Diego. His stay was extended to seven days after he resisted the diagnosis, and he was forced to “pretend I was schizophrenic” just to get out. The experience, while terrifying, became another twisted form of validation. He felt a strange sense of belonging, a feeling of being seen, even if it was for a fabricated identity. This desire to be seen, no matter the cost, became a driving force in his life.
3. Finding “Comfort” in Alcohol and Drugs
After his release from the psychiatric hospital, Castellanos was granted his wish to do home studies. He was safe, alone, and free from the social pressures of school. But without a structured environment, his pursuit of external validation found a new and dangerous outlet: alcohol and drugs. At 14, he and a friend stole a bottle of whiskey. The first time the alcohol’s buzz kicked in, he had a revelation. “It was the first time in my life I can remember feeling comfortable. Feeling connected, feeling grounded, feeling seen, feeling safe.”
For a young man who had been battling anxiety and suicidal thoughts for years, alcohol was not a poison but a perceived cure. He came to believe that if he hadn’t found alcohol and drugs, he “would’ve killed myself a long time ago.” This belief became the foundation of a life of addiction. He transitioned from alcohol to ecstasy, a drug he had manifested after seeing a YouTube video of people dancing at a rave. He quickly developed a connection to a dealer, a neighbor who would later molest him for six months. This second traumatic experience, made all the more confusing by the disinhibiting effects of methamphetamines, reinforced his belief that his own actions were to blame.
4. The Vicious Cycle of Addiction, Breakups, and Despair
From the ages of 14 to 18, Castellanos’s life was a cycle of avoidance and self-destruction. He became the “party guy,” a role that gave him a false sense of purpose and belonging. “I played that character and I played that character really well.” He was the one who could get alcohol and drugs, the one with the “cool mom” who would let everyone stay over. This performance, however, couldn’t mask his growing addiction. He experienced blackouts, fights, and near-misses with the law. His underlying trauma continued to haunt him, and he continued to seek external validation, especially through romantic relationships.
At 17, he fell in love, convinced that this relationship would “fix” him. But his codependent nature led to a devastating overdose on 17 ecstasy pills after a party. He woke up in the hospital, handcuffed to a bed, his face bloody from a fall. Even in this moment of crisis, his first thought was to manipulate his way out of trouble, blaming the police for his injuries and demanding pain pills. Less than 24 hours after leaving the hospital, he overdosed again.
This pattern of using relationships as a crutch and self-destruction as a coping mechanism continued into his early twenties. He sought refuge in a high-profile bartending job, a role that fed his need for attention and validation. Yet, even as the “it dude,” his addiction spiraled out of control. Another failed relationship at 21 sent him to his rock bottom, a suicide attempt. It was this moment that forced him to confront the truth: his past trauma was still controlling his present, and his addiction was only making things worse.
5. The Path to Recovery and a New Purpose
Fausto Castellanos’s story is a powerful reminder that the desire to heal must come from within. While external sources of validation, like relationships or social status, may offer temporary relief, they cannot solve the underlying issues of trauma and self-worth. His journey highlights the importance of vulnerability in recovery, a theme he emphasizes throughout the podcast. “Vulnerability will save your life to know that there is people out there that are going through what you’re going through, and there is people who are willing to help you. You just gotta let people know what’s going on inside of you, because if you don’t reveal it, then you can’t heal it.”
His story, once a source of shame, has become a tool for advocacy. By sharing his experiences, he gives others permission to be vulnerable and seek help. His work as a clinical counselor and “hope dealer” is a testament to the power of turning pain into purpose. He now uses his past not as a burden but as a beacon, illuminating a path for others struggling with addiction and trauma. The long road of emotional recovery may be difficult, but as Castellanos’s story shows, it is possible to transform a life of self-destruction into a mission of healing and hope.
The journey to recovery from stimulant addiction is often fraught with challenges, yet it offers an unparalleled opportunity for profound personal transformation. For many, the insidious grip of stimulants begins subtly, weaving itself into the fabric of daily life until it becomes an undeniable and destructive force. The story of Misha, who began using stimulants at 15 and entered treatment at 17, is a poignant illustration of this trajectory. His experience highlights the normalization of suffering, the illusion of control, and the eventual realization that a life dictated by addiction is no life at all.
This article delves into the complexities of stimulant addiction, exploring the signs, the impact on physical and mental health, and the crucial steps towards lasting recovery. Drawing insights from Misha’s personal journey, we will shed light on the vital role of connection, self-awareness, and the unwavering belief that a better life is not only possible but within reach.
1. The Deceptive Normalization of Suffering
One of the most insidious aspects of stimulant addiction is its ability to warp an individual’s perception of “normal.” As Misha recounts, “I think one thing that became the normal for me was always feeling bad. I mean, whether it was emotionally guilty or physically bad, like you wouldn’t sleep, I wouldn’t eat.” This constant state of discomfort, sleeplessness, and poor nutrition becomes the accepted baseline, obscuring the true toll the addiction is taking. The body’s natural rhythms are disrupted, leading to a cascade of negative health consequences.
The psychological burden is equally heavy. The constant cycle of using, experiencing a fleeting high, and then crashing into a state of depletion and guilt creates a vicious loop. Misha’s observation that admitting the harm meant “admitting obviously, that I had a problem and something had to change and worse, that I didn’t have control over myself or what I was doing wasn’t manageable” underscores the powerful role of denial in perpetuating addiction. Breaking free from this normalized suffering requires a profound shift in perspective and a courageous willingness to confront the reality of the situation.
2. The Tipping Point: Recognizing the Need for Change
For many individuals struggling with addiction, the decision to seek help is not a singular, instantaneous event but rather a gradual process, often triggered by external pressures or a sudden moment of clarity. In Misha’s case, legal trouble initially propelled him into treatment. However, as he wisely points out, “being sent somewhere is completely different from choosing to go there, especially as an addict.” True recovery begins when the individual internalizes the need for change and actively chooses the path of healing.
Misha’s “aha!” moment occurred when confronted with a seemingly innocuous Adderall prescription. His mind, no longer clouded by immediate desire, began to play out the inevitable consequences: the lies, the sleepless nights, the physical discomfort, all for “20 minutes of pleasure.” This vivid mental rehearsal, culminating in the realization that he had been “sabotaging myself,” marked his personal tipping point. It’s a testament to the power of self-awareness and the ability to connect actions with their long-term repercussions.
This internal shift is crucial because it moves beyond mere compliance and into genuine commitment. It’s at this juncture that individuals begin to understand that the perceived “benefits” of substance use are dwarfed by the accumulating negative consequences. The fleeting high gives way to persistent suffering, and the illusion of control shatters under the weight of unmanageability. The transition from being told to get help to deciding to get help is a fundamental step in the recovery journey.
3. The Power of Connection: Letting Others In
Addiction thrives in isolation. The shame, guilt, and secrecy associated with substance abuse often lead individuals to erect walls, pushing away those who care about them. For Misha, a significant breakthrough in his recovery was learning to “let people in.” He describes his initial resistance: “I was so set on not being told what to do or not feeling like anyone was in control of me or in charge of me, um, even to my detriment.” This desire for absolute autonomy, while understandable, ultimately served as a barrier to healing.
In recovery, connection is not merely beneficial; it is foundational. Whether through structured treatment programs, support groups like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, or therapy, the process of sharing one’s experiences and vulnerabilities with others creates a powerful sense of belonging and understanding. As Misha notes, “When you’re in a treatment program or in meetings or anything like that, the biggest part of it is your connection with other people and talking and allowing people to understand you and allowing yourself to be understood and to understand others.” This reciprocal exchange dismantles the isolating effects of addiction.
Allowing oneself to be vulnerable and to trust others—even when the instinct is to keep walls up—is a challenging but profoundly rewarding step. Misha’s realization that “I was worthy or could be cared about by someone that wasn’t necessarily related to me” speaks to the transformative power of genuine connection. It provides a safe space where individuals can be heard without judgment, receive support, and learn from the experiences of others who have walked a similar path.
4. Embracing the Journey: There Is No Top to the Mountain
Recovery is not a destination but an ongoing process of growth and self-discovery. A profound lesson Misha learned, a phrase commonly used in recovery meetings, is “there is no top to the mountain.” This metaphor beautifully encapsulates the idea that progress is continuous, and there’s always room for further development and improved well-being. It also highlights the importance of embracing all emotions, both good and bad, rather than seeking to escape them.
Addiction often serves as a coping mechanism, a way to numb uncomfortable feelings or avoid difficult realities. Misha acknowledges this, stating, “It was so easy to hide behind substance. Have this wall of well, I know I’ll feel this way if I take this. And that’s predictable, and that’s less scary than not knowing how I’ll feel if I have nothing to hide behind.” The perceived predictability of substance-induced states, even if negative, can feel safer than the unpredictable landscape of raw human emotion.
However, true healing involves dismantling this wall and allowing oneself to experience the full spectrum of life. “There’s such a depth to life and existence, whether for good or for bad, that if you allow yourself to feel those things, things can get so much better.” This willingness to experience discomfort, to sit with difficult emotions without resorting to substances, is a cornerstone of lasting recovery. It’s a risk, as Misha notes, to “experience things in a sober way,” but it is “definitely worth it.” This continuous journey of self-exploration and emotional engagement leads to a richer, more authentic life.
5. The Sweet Rewards: A Life Transformed
Life in recovery, while not without its challenges, offers a profound sense of liberation and a richness that was unattainable during active addiction. One of the most significant changes Misha highlights is the “depth to the happiness that I feel that is so much better, uh, than when I was using stimulants.” This genuine, unadulterated joy is a stark contrast to the fleeting, chemically induced highs of addiction. Beyond emotional well-being, the physical benefits are undeniable: “I can sleep and I can eat, and I don’t feel like my skin’s too tight all the time.” These basic human comforts, once sacrificed to addiction, become cherished aspects of a healthy life.
Perhaps the most impactful transformation is in the realm of relationships. Addiction often creates a web of lies and deceit, straining connections with loved ones. Misha describes the immense relief of being able to have “meaningful relationships with people, especially my family and people that I’m close to that aren’t built on this kind of web of lies.” The burden of secrecy is lifted, allowing for honesty, trust, and authentic connection to flourish. This renewed ability to engage in healthy, honest relationships is a powerful motivator for continued recovery.
6. Holding On: Advice for Those in the Midst of Struggle
For those currently grappling with the depths of addiction or depression, Misha’s advice is clear and compassionate: “Just keep going. It is so awful. And in the worst parts of addiction or depression it can feel like, well, there is, I felt everything there is to feel, there’s no way this could get better.” This feeling of hopelessness is a common trap, a narrative spun by the addiction itself.
Misha urges individuals to challenge this destructive internal voice: “You just have to ignore that part of you that’s telling you that there’s no point trying or that you’re stupid for trying, or you might as well give up. Um, ’cause it’s not true. That’s your addiction. That’s, that’s, that’s not you talking.” This crucial distinction between the authentic self and the manipulative voice of addiction is empowering.
The path to recovery is walked one step at a time, sometimes even one minute at a time. Whether it’s “getting outta bed or just not doing drugs for 30 minutes,” each small victory contributes to forward momentum. The message is one of unwavering hope: “I promise there is an end, there’s another side to this bridge. Um, and it is so, so much better, but it is so hard to get there.” This acknowledges the difficulty but emphasizes the ultimate reward. Finding something to believe in, whether it’s a person, a higher power, or the inherent human capacity for healing, can provide the necessary strength to persevere.
7. Taking the Leap: For Those on the Fence
The decision to embark on a recovery journey can be daunting, often leaving individuals “on the fence.” Misha offers a powerful reframe: if you’re on the fence, “you are not actually on the fence, you’ve already decided that you do wanna start recovering. It’s just scary to admit that or even begin those steps.” This perspective suggests that the internal contemplation itself is an indication of a readiness for change, even if fear holds one back.
When daily life is compromised by substance use—affecting health, relationships, or work—to the point of unmanageability, it’s a clear signal that something needs to change. Misha uses the proverb, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. And the second best time is today.” This timeless wisdom emphasizes that there’s no perfect moment to begin, only the present. There’s no need for elaborate preparations or practice; the journey can start now.
When someone uses methamphetamine, it often causes noticeable changes in their eyes. These changes, sometimes called “meth eyes,” can be early warning signs of meth use and potential indicators of serious health risks. Understanding these signs isn’t about judgment—it’s about recognizing when someone needs help and preventing long-term damage to their vision and overall health.
What Are Meth Eyes?
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but meth has a profound effect on eye health.1 That’s because meth use creates changes in the brain that influence eye function, pupil response, and overall eye appearance. These changes happen because meth impacts the body’s nervous system, affecting everything from blood flow to tear production. While some changes might be temporary, others can lead to serious, long-term vision problems if they’re not addressed as early as possible.
Symptoms of Meth Eyes
Pupil Dilation
One of the most noticeable signs of meth use is enlarged pupils that don’t respond normally to light. Usually, our pupils get smaller in bright light and larger in darkness, but meth can disrupt this natural response. Someone using meth might have unusually large pupils2 even in bright settings, which can make their eyes look darker than usual.
Rapid Eye Movements
People using meth may experience involuntary eye movements3 called nystagmus, where their eyes make quick, repetitive motions. These movements can be subtle or quite noticeable, and can make it hard for the person to focus their vision. Nystagmus is disorienting and uncomfortable, and affects people’s ability to perform everyday tasks like reading or driving safely.
Glassy or Glossy Appearance
Meth use often causes a distinctive glassy or glossy look in the eyes. This happens because the drug affects tear production and natural eye lubrication. The eyes might look shinier than usual, almost like they’re coated in glass. This isn’t just a cosmetic concern—proper eye lubrication is crucial for eye comfort and health.
Bloodshot Eyes
Red or bloodshot eyes are common among meth users because it causes blood vessels in the eyes to expand. Combined with meth’s dehydrating effects, this can make the eyes appear red, irritated, and tired-looking. Bloodshot eyes can have many causes, but when they’re combined with other symptoms, they might indicate meth use.
Visual Impairments Associated With Meth Eyes
Meth doesn’t just temporarily affect how eyes look—it can damage the structures in the eye4 that we need for vision, particularly the retina and its blood supply.
Blurred Vision
Many people who use meth incur problems with their vision. One of these is blurriness that comes and goes. This happens because the drug affects the muscles that control eye movement and focus. Research shows meth can actually damage the retina5—the part of your eye that processes light and enables vision. While temporary blurred vision might not seem serious, it can signal the beginning of more permanent eye damage.
Long-Term Damage
Over time, what starts as a temporary visual impairment from meth use can develop into lasting damage. Recent studies have found that meth can cause the retina to become thinner6 and can kill cells in different layers of the eye. It also damages the protective lining of blood vessels in the eye, particularly affecting the main artery that supplies blood to the retina. These changes can cause vision impairment that persists even after you stop using meth.
In one documented case, a person who used crystal meth for 7 years developed severe vision problems7 in both eyes that got progressively worse. While some vision loss was treatable with laser therapy, other damage was permanent. This is why it’s important to recognize and address meth use and eye damage early, before more serious vision problems develop.
Retinal Vascular Occlusive Disease
One of the more serious complications of meth use is its effect on the blood vessels in the retina, the part of your eye that processes light and enables vision. Meth can cause blood vessels in the retina to become blocked,8 cutting off the blood supply to parts of the eye. It can also damage blood vessels by causing inflammation, narrowing, or even complete blockage. This sometimes happens in both eyes simultaneously.
When these blood vessels are blocked, the affected areas of the retina don’t get enough oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to vision loss. Sometimes, the eye tries to compensate by growing new, abnormal blood vessels, but these can cause additional problems including bleeding inside the eye. This condition often develops gradually and doesn’t always show up right away—abnormal blood vessel growth has been observed up to 2 years after the initial blockage.
Ischemic Retinopathy
When meth restricts blood flow to the retina,9 it can cause a condition called ischemic retinopathy. Think of it like a stroke in the eye, where parts of the retina don’t get enough oxygen. This can create blind spots or areas of blurry vision that could become permanent without treatment.
Skin problems, including sores that are slow to heal
Significant weight loss and malnutrition
Heart problems and high blood pressure
Dental issues, often called “meth mouth”
Difficulties with memory and concentration
The Importance of Early Recognition
Recognizing the Signs of Meth Eyes in Loved Ones
If you notice changes in someone’s eyes along with shifts in their behavior or health, it’s natural to be concerned. While it can seem intimidating to approach someone about their suspected meth use, recognizing these signs early can make a huge difference in their recovery journey—and ultimately, in their life. Addiction is a health condition, not a moral failing, and your loved one deserves support and understanding.
When talking to someone you love about your concerns,
Recovery from meth addiction is possible, and professional help makes the journey safer, easier, and more effective. Treatment usually involves a combination of approaches:
Support groups to help you connect with others on similar journeys
Treatment for physical health issues, including eye problems
Ongoing support for lasting recovery
Learn more about the importance of long-term recovery support in our article on continuing care.
Preventing Long-Term Health Consequences
The sooner you get help for meth use, the better chance you have of avoiding permanent health problems. Many of the eye and vision changes caused by meth can improve with proper treatment and sustained recovery. Your healthcare provider can also help you manage any lasting effects and prevent further damage.
Addressing the Risks of Meth Use Early
If you or someone you care about is struggling with meth use, help is available. Recovery is a journey, and with proper support, people can and do overcome meth addiction every day. Look for a meth addiction treatment center that matches your criteria and reach out to a support specialist directly today.
When someone you love starts acting differently, it can be both confusing and concerning. These feelings of worry, confusion, and fear are completely understandable. Methamphetamine addiction is a serious reality that affects not just the person using meth, but everyone who cares about them.
The good news is that meth addiction is very treatable. Every day, families help their loved ones find the support that helps them recover for good. It may all seem overwhelming right now, but taking the time to educate yourself about meth addiction is a smart first step toward getting your loved one the help they need.
This guide covers everything you need to know about spotting the warning signs of meth use in your loved one, how to better understand what they’re going through, and how to effectively help them find the support they need while protecting your own well-being along the way.
Recognizing the Warning Signs: What to Look For
One thing that’s unique about meth is that addiction can develop surprisingly quickly. And as a partner, friend, or family member, you’re in a unique position to notice changes that others might miss.
The changes caused by methamphetamine use disorder1 typically fall into a few categories: physical appearance, behavioral patterns, and emotional shifts. Some of these signs could indicate other issues, but when multiple warning signs appear together, they may point to meth use.
Physical Changes
Dramatic Weight Loss and Appetite Changes
One of the most noticeable signs of meth use is rapid, significant weight loss. Meth suppresses appetite, and your loved one may go days without eating proper meals. You may notice them becoming gaunt or their clothes fitting loosely. They might also seem uninterested in food or the favorite meals they used to enjoy.
“Meth Mouth” and Other Dental Problems
Meth causes severe tooth decay called “meth mouth.”2 You might notice your loved one covering their mouth when they smile, complaining of tooth pain, or having bad breath. Their teeth might look broken, blackened, or rotting. This damage can happen very fast once people start using meth regularly.
Skin Changes and Sores
Meth use causes skin problems3 that are hard to hide. This can look like acne-like sores (usually on the face and arms), frequently scratching or picking at their skin (which can cause open wounds or scabs), or premature aging that makes their skin look older and more weathered than before.
Erratic Sleep Patterns
Meth is an extremely strong psychostimulant, which means it drastically affects sleep patterns.4 It’s known for causing days-long binges during which people stay awake for days on end. People normally crash and sleep for a long time after a binge. Because of this, people on meth often look exhausted.
Other Physical Signs
Other signs to watch for include:
Dilated pupils that don’t respond normally to light changes
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Elevated body temperature
Frequent nosebleeds (if they’re snorting)
Shaky hands
Jitteriness or an inability to sit still
Behavioral Red Flags
Personality Changes and Mood Swings
If your loved one seems like a completely different person lately, you’re not imagining it. Meth can turn even the gentlest, most even-tempered person into someone you barely recognize. The hardest part for many families is witnessing angry outbursts from someone who was never like that before. Try to remember that these personality changes are symptoms of the addiction, not permanent changes to who your loved one really is.
Social Withdrawal and Isolation
Many people using meth begin pulling away from family and friends. Your loved one might stop attending family gatherings, avoid eye contact, or seem uncomfortable around people they were once close to. They may also start spending time with a completely new group of friends.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Watch for declining performance at work or school, missed appointments, unpaid bills, or neglected household duties. Your loved one might lose their job, drop out of activities they once enjoyed, or stop taking care of their basic personal hygiene.
Hyperactivity and Obsessive Behaviors
Meth can cause intense bursts of energy and focus on repetitive tasks. You might notice your loved one obsessively cleaning, organizing, or working on projects for hours. Meth also tends to make people very fidgety and restless: it’s common for people to do repetitive movements or pace back and forth because of their excess energy.
Meth Paraphernalia
The use of methamphetamine involves certain paraphernalia. Common items include:
Small glass pipes (also called “bowls”)
Aluminum foil with burn marks
Small plastic bags with residue
Cut straws
Needles or syringes
Spoons with burn marks
Small mirrors
Razor blades
Meth has a chemical smell that can be detectable when it’s smoked, on someone’s clothing, or even in their sweat. These can include sweet, metallic scents or strong ammonia-like smells that can linger in rooms or on fabrics long after use.
How Can You Help Someone Struggling With Meth Addiction?
Approach Your Loved One With Clarity, Compassion, and Care
Confronting someone you care about is never easy, especially when you’re not sure how they’ll respond. But ultimately, being truthful is the highest service to our relationships—and that can be accomplished with firmness, gentleness, and care.
Start by expressing your love and concern rather than accusations. You can try starting with “I” statements or prompts that open up space for you to listen to their experience:
“I’ve noticed some changes that worry me.”
“Can you help me understand what’s going on?”
“I believe you can get through this.”
“I love you and I’m here to support you.”
Avoid saying:
“How could you do this to our family?”
“Just stop using.”
“You’re being selfish.”
Threats or ultimatums during the first conversation
Set Healthy Boundaries That Help You and Your Loved One
Loving someone with meth addiction is emotionally exhausting. It’s important to set (and reinforce, as often as necessary) boundaries that set the tone for what behaviors you will and won’t accept and set the stage for healthier interactions. Relationships involving substance abuse often include enabling and other codependent dynamics. If you’re not already practiced in healthy boundary-setting, it’s a good idea to educate yourself and get therapeutic support for doing this while you’re managing this relationship with your addicted loved one.
Caring for someone with meth addiction takes an enormous emotional toll that shouldn’t be underestimated. Consider joining a support group for families affected by addiction, like Nar-Anon or Al-Anon. It’s a great idea to attend therapy regularly throughout this time to help you process your emotions and implement coping strategies.
You didn’t cause your loved one’s addiction, you can’t control it, and you can’t cure it. What you can do is take care of yourself and offer healthy support with boundaries.
Sometimes, the effects of meth can become overwhelming. This is called overamping5—a type of stimulant overdose that happens when the brain and body are overstimulated. While it can feel very uncomfortable, overamping is not usually life-threatening (unlike overdosing on other substances like opioids) and doesn’t usually require emergency intervention.
That said, there are times when stimulant use leads to serious medical conditions that do. Here’s how to tell the difference:
When It’s a Non-Emergency (Support and Rest May Help):
These symptoms can be temporarily very intense, but they pass with time and support:
Confusion or restlessness
Paranoia, panic, or hallucinations
Agitation or hyperactivity
Fast heart rate
Jerky movements or muscle tension
Teeth grinding
Feeling hot (but not having a dangerously high body temperature)
Suicidal thoughts (without a plan or means)
If someone is experiencing these effects, try to:
Move them to a calm, cool space
Offer water or an electrolyte drink
Encourage them to rest, lie down, or take a shower
Avoid overstimulation (dim lights, lower noise)
Stay nearby in case their condition changes
When to Call 911 Immediately
Call for emergency help if your loved one shows signs of a serious medical condition. Try to describe their symptoms as clearly as possible.
Call 911 if you notice:
Signs of a stroke: Drooping face, slurred speech, or sudden weakness on one side
Seizure activity: Seizures (potentially multiple), loss of consciousness, or uncontrollable shaking
Overheating: Body temperature over 104°F, confusion, fainting, or hot to the touch Heart attack symptoms: Chest pain or tightness, difficulty breathing, cold sweats, pain in the jaw, back, or arms
Loss of contact with reality that results in dangerous behavior toward themselves or others
If you’re unsure, it’s okay to make the call. Describe the symptoms you’re seeing—like “My friend has chest pain and can’t breathe”—instead of using terms like “overamping.” This helps first responders know what kind of help is needed and may reduce the chance of law enforcement involvement.
Managing Psychotic Episodes Safely
Meth can cause temporary psychosis6 with symptoms that include paranoia, hallucinations, or delusions. These techniques can help you de-escalate the situation:
Stay calm and avoid arguing with their altered perceptions. Don’t try to convince them their hallucinations aren’t real (sometimes this just increases the agitation). Try to speak in a calm voice and be mindful of your body language.
Remove potentially dangerous items from the immediate area if possible. This includes anything that could be used as a weapon, even household items. If your loved one starts showing threatening or violent behavior, leave and call 911.
Call for professional help when psychotic symptoms are severe, persistent, or involve threats of violence. Emergency first responders are trained to handle these situations safely.
Keep in mind that your loved one isn’t choosing to act this way; their brain chemistry is temporarily altered.
When to Call 911 vs. Crisis Lines
Call 911 immediately for: Physical overdose symptoms, threats of suicide with a plan or means, violence toward others, severe psychotic episodes where your loved one can’t recognize reality, or any situation where you fear for anyone’s physical safety.
Call crisis lines first for: Emotional support during difficult conversations, guidance on approaching treatment, your loved one expressing general hopelessness (but no specific suicide plan), or when you need advice on managing ongoing behavioral changes.
Trust your instincts. If something feels seriously wrong or dangerous, it’s always better to call for professional help. Emergency responders would rather respond to a situation that turns out to be manageable than arrive too late to help.
Calling for emergency help doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your loved one. You’re ensuring they survive this crisis so they can have the opportunity to recover.
Treatment Options for Meth Addiction
Getting Your Loved One Into Treatment
If your loved one agrees to treatment, it’s best to move quickly. The window of willingness can be brief, especially with meth addiction. Have contacts ready, know what insurance covers, and be prepared to assist them with transportation and other logistical aspects of starting treatment.
Types of Treatment Programs
Detox and Medical Support
The first step is often detox, where your loved one can stop using meth under medical supervision. Meth withdrawal isn’t typically life-threatening, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and prompt depression, anxiety, and intense cravings.
Inpatient Programs
In residential rehab, patients live at the treatment facility for at least 30 days, sometimes up to 90 days or longer. They provide the most intensive level of health care in a recovery-focused context designed to remove patients from their usual environment and triggers.
Outpatient Programs
In these programs, patients live at home while attending an intensive schedule of treatment sessions and support groups at an outpatient center. They can work well for people with strong family support systems and less severe addictions.
Continuing Care
Recovery doesn’t end when formal treatment is complete—ongoing support is extremely important for long-term success. This might include regular therapy sessions, support group meetings, family counseling, and check-ins with treatment providers to help your loved one maintain their sobriety and continue building healthy coping skills.
Evidence-Based Therapies That Work
Meth addiction treatment programs use a combination of therapies to help people stop their meth use, build healthier habits, and stay in recovery. Some of the most effective and commonly used treatments for meth addiction include (but aren’t limited to):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps people recognize, interrupt, and change patterns of thoughts and behaviors. In treatment, your loved one will learn how to recognize situations that make them want to use meth, develop healthier ways of coping with challenges, and practice strategies for staying grounded in recovery.
Originally designed for people recovering from stimulant use,8 the Matrix Model combines individual therapy, group support, family education, and 12-Step participation. It also encourages structure, accountability, and a strong therapeutic relationship, which can make a big difference in early recovery.
These are typically used in combination with complementary therapies (such as experiential therapy or mindfulness practices) and peer support (such as group therapy, support groups, and community building). Your program might also incorporate trauma-informed approaches or special treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders.
How to Choose the Right Treatment Program
With so many treatment programs out there, it can be hard to know which ones are truly high-quality. You’ll need to do some basic research on understanding your treatment options, factors to look for in a treatment program, and available insurance and payment options.
Meth is a strong central nervous system stimulant. It gives people an intense rush of energy, alertness, and confidence. But while these effects are intense, they don’t last long. Other physical side effects include:
Racing heart
Elevated blood pressure
Sleeplessness
When meth wears off, it caues an intense crash, which means your loved one can go from feeling very “up” to feeling very down, exhausted, and irritable. The comedown usually includes intense cravings. This cycle of highs and lows can quickly and profoundly tax the mind and body.
The Long-Term Effects of Meth Use
Over time, meth can lead to serious health problems. It causes intense cardiovascular strain, putting users at increased risk of heart attack and stroke even they’re otherwise healthy.
Long-term meth use changes the way the brain works,9 which affects people’s memory, attention, and decision-making. This is why your loved one might seem confused, forgetful, or have trouble with tasks they normally do easily. These changes aren’t necessarily permanent, but they are sign that your loved one needs professional care.
Why They Can’t “Just Stop”
Meth changes the brain’s reward system, especially the pathways that involve dopamine—a chemical that helps us feel motivated, happy, and connected. Using meth repeatedly over time makes it harder for the brain to feel pleasure without it. This isn’t about weakness or lack of willpower—it’s a medical condition that affects brain chemistry.
That’s why quitting on your own can feel quite literally impossible. Recovery takes professional care, time, and support, but it can and does happen.
Understanding Meth: The Basics for Families
What is meth, and why is it so dangerous?
Methamphetamine is a strong, man-made stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It’s made using toxic chemicals in illegal labs and often goes by names like crystal, ice, glass, crank, and speed. Because it acts so quickly and powerfully on the brain, it carries a high risk of dependence.
What Is Crystal Meth?
Crystal meth is a type of methamphetamine that looks like white rocks (sometimes with a blue tint) or shards of glass. It’s usually smoked, which sends it to the brain almost instantly. This quick rush creates a very strong high—and an equally intense crash—making it extremely addictive.
How People Usually Use Meth
Meth is used in a few different ways; each comes with its own risks:
Smoking is the most common method. People use glass pipes to get an instant, intense high. This method damages the lungs.
Snorting involves inhaling powdered meth through the nose, which can seriously damage nasal passages and sinuses.
Injecting sends meth straight into the bloodstream for immediate, intense effects. It dramatically increases the risk of overdose and dangerous infections like hepatitis.
Swallowing meth in pill or powder form causes slower effects but still impacts the brain and body.
How Meth Addiction Affects Families
Meth use doesn’t only affect the person using—it impacts everyone around them. You may notice that routines, relationships, and even simple moments together start to feel different or more strained. The ripple effects can reach every part of family life.
Common Challenges Families Face
Meth addiction can create serious financial, emotional, and legal stress. This can look like borrowing money frequently or taking it without asking, running up debts, or selling things around the house to fund their use. And of course, meth always carries legal risk10—especially since it has to be obtained illegally from dealers and often causes erratic behavior.
Emotionally, living with someone who’s struggling can feel exhausting. You may be caught between wanting to help and not knowing how. If there are children in the home, they may be feeling confused or scared, and they may need extra reassurance and support.
Break the Cycle of Enabling
It’s natural to want to protect your loved one, but sometimes helping turns into enabling—removing the consequences that might otherwise motivate change. For example, giving money, covering for missed responsibilities, or downplaying their behavior can unintentionally keep the cycle going.
Support doesn’t mean clearing every obstacle. In fact, setting healthy limits can be one of the most loving things you do. Boundaries aren’t about punishment—they’re about creating a space where recovery is more likely to happen.
When someone in your household is struggling with a substance use disorder, physical and emotional safety is a top priority. Creating a home that supports recovery means setting up conditions that help everyone feel secure and respected.
Remove Substances and Triggers
Consider removing alcoholfrom your home, even if meth is the main concern. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, which makes risky decisions more likely. Be aware of items that could be used as tools for meth use, like foil, glass pipes, or lighters. You don’t have to get rid of everything, but keeping an eye out can help.
If possible, limit access to areas where drug use might go unnoticed, like garages or locked bedrooms. These small changes won’t mean you can control everything, but they do help create an environment that’s as safe and recovery-oriented as possible.
Plan for Tough Situations
Set clear rules about behavior in your home, such as not using drugs, not bringing over certain guests, or respecting others’ boundaries. Let your loved one know these rules come from a place of care.
Have a plan for what to do if things escalate. This might mean leaving the house, calling a trusted support person, or if safety is at risk, calling emergency services. Make sure kids and other household members know what to do, too.
It’s okay to consider temporary living changes if things become unmanageable. Having your loved one stay elsewhere for a while, or staying with friends or family yourself, might be a necessary step to keep everyone safe.
Secure Medications and Valuables
Safely store prescription medications, especially pain relievers, anxiety medications, or ADHD medications that could be misused or sold. Use a locked box or cabinet, and consider having a trusted friend or family member hold medications if your loved one has legitimate prescriptions.
Protect important documents like Social Security cards, passports, birth certificates, and financial information. People going through severe addiction sometimes sell items like this or use them for identity-related crimes without fully understanding the consequences.
Secure cash, jewelry, and electronics in a safe place. Removing temptation protects both them and your family’s financial stability.
This isn’t about not trusting your loved one as a person—addiction can drive people to act in ways that contradict their values. The goal is to create conditions that allow space for recovery while protecting your family’s well-being. Many families find that once their loved one enters treatment and starts their recovery, these restrictions can gradually be relaxed as they rebuild trust.
What to Expect in Recovery
A Realistic Timeline
The early days of sobriety can be tough. Withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and intense cravings can last days or even weeks. But this phase is temporary. While it’s difficult, keep in mind that it’s also the first sign of healing.
Most residential treatment programs last at least 30 days, which can provide a foundation for stabilization and early recovery. However, some research shows that longer treatment durations can lead to better long-term outcomes,11 including lower relapse rates and improved functioning.
That’s because recovery isn’t just about stopping meth use—it’s about giving the brain and body time to heal, and building new habits that support a healthier, more stable life. Continuing care allows patients to gradually rebuild their daily routines, strengthen coping skills, and develop meaningful connections that reinforce their recovery over time.
Understanding Relapse Rates
It’s important to understand that relapse is common in meth addiction recovery. Studies suggest that relapse rates for meth12 addiction are similar to other chronic diseases—meaning many people encounter setbacks before they achieve long-lasting sobriety.
This doesn’t mean treatment doesn’t work or that your loved one is hopeless. Each treatment episode builds skills and motivation for future success. If relapse occurs, it’s crucial to get your loved one back into treatment quickly.
Supporting Your Loved One Through Treatment
Your support during treatment can really impact your loved one’s success, but it’s important to support in healthy ways. This might include joining family therapy sessions, learning about addiction, and maintaining appropriate boundaries.
Recovery affects the entire family, so it’s helpful to develop a family recovery plan that addresses everyone’s needs. You can do this by working with a family therapist, either as part of your loved one’s rehab program or separately. As you go through this process, it helps to keep in mind that recovery doesn’t always look like a dramatic transformation, but rather non-linear progress over time.
Find Help and Take Action
There are plenty of resources and support available to help you keep your loved one safe and point them toward healing.
How to Research Treatment Centers
The first step is often checking with your insurance provider to see what treatment services are covered. From there, look for treatment centers that are licensed, accredited, and experienced in treating meth addiction specifically.
It’s a good idea to choose a program that offers:
Medical and mental health support
Therapies that are backed by research
Structured aftercare planning
Options for family involvement(if that’s important to you)
These elements can make a big difference in how well your loved one is supported throughout their recovery.
Change Can Start Now
You don’t have to wait for a crisis or for your loved one to “hit rock bottom.” Reaching out for support early, when you first notice the signs, can make a big difference in getting your loved one started on the path to healing.
Take the next step today by finding a meth addiction treatment center and speaking to an addiction specialist about your options.
FAQs
Q: How is methamphetamine misused?
A: Meth can be used in different ways, including smoking, snorting, injecting, or swallowing. Smoking and injecting produce the fastest and most intense effects, which also increases the risk of dependence.
Q: What are the symptoms of meth addiction?
A: Common signs include significant weight loss, dental issues (sometimes called “meth mouth”), skin sores from picking, enlarged pupils, changes in sleep patterns, mood swings, paranoia, and pulling away from relationships.
Q: What is crystal meth addiction?
A: Crystal meth addiction involves the ongoing, compulsive crystal methamphetamine use. This form of the drug enters the brain very quickly, which often means people have stronger cravings and develop dependence more quickly.
Q: What are the long-term effects of methamphetamine misuse?
A: Over time, meth can cause damage to the heart, brain, and other organs including the skin. It commonly causes severe dental problems and weight loss. Many people also experience ongoing mental health issues, including mood instability and problems with memory.
Q: What is the relapse rate for meth?
A: Relapse rates for methamphetamine abuse are high, especially in the first year after treatment. Research shows that approximately 61% of people relapse within the first year following treatment.13 Over longer periods, the risk drops to 14% within 2–5 years. People can improves their chances of recovery success by attending an ongoing, structured recovery program.
It’s important to remember that relapse is a common part of the recovery process and does not mean treatment has failed. Each treatment experience can provide new skills and strengthen resilience for lasting recovery.
Q: How can you help someone struggling with meth addiction?
A: Approach them with clarity and compassion. Focus on what you can control: researching treatment options, setting healthy boundaries, creating a safer home environment, and getting support for yourself. You can’t force someone into recovery, but you can create conditions that make it more likely to happen.
If someone is overdosing, immediately call 911 or local emergency services.
Narcan, or naloxone, is used to reverse opioid overdose. Opioids, such as heroin, opium, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl, can be legal prescription medications or illegal substances.
Overdose occurs when an opioid’s depressant effects on the central nervous system cause life-threatening reactions. Narcan reverses an overdose by binding to the same brain receptors as opioids, thereby blocking the opioids from attaching to the receptors. This helps restore normal breathing and consciousness.
Narcan is usually administered through a nasal spray, and it can also be injected.
When to Use Narcan
It’s possible for opioid users to accidentally ingest too much at once and overdose. Other substances like MDMA can be cut with opioids, such as fentanyl, to lower production costs. If someone is displaying the signs of overdose, even if they didn’t knowingly take an opioid, you can still administer narcan—narcan won’t harm someone who didn’t ingest opioids1.
Overdoses usually include respiratory failure, where breathing becomes slow, shallow, or even stops completely. Other signs of overdose1 include:
Unconsciousness
Very small pupils
Vomiting
Inability to speak
Faint heartbeat
Limp arms and legs
Pale skin
Purple lips and fingernails
Without immediate medical intervention, an opioid overdose can be fatal. In addition to using narcan in the event of an overdose, immediately call 911 or local emergency services.
Until emergency services arrive, you can help someone who’s overdosing2 by assisting them to sit or lay down in an open space. You can administer CPR if you are qualified, and if their skin is blue, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Additionally, use Narcan.
If you are using NARCAN nasal spray, follow these steps:
Peel back the package and remove the device. Put your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and two fingers on the nozzle.
Place and hold the tip of the nozzle in either nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the patient’s nose.
Press the plunger firmly to release the dose into the patient’s nose.
Tip: When administering a nasal spray, help the patient gently tip their chin upward. This helps open their airways so the spray can better reach the bloodstream.
If you are using EVZIO auto-injector, follow these steps:
Pull the auto-injector from the outer case.
Firmly pull off the red safety guard; do not touch the black base (this is where the needle comes out).
Place the black end of the auto-injector against the outer thigh, through clothing if necessary.
Press firmly and hold in place for 5 seconds. (There will be a distinct “hiss” and “click” sound when working properly. The needle will not be visible after use.)
If you are using yellow cap nasal spray, follow these steps:
Pry off the syringe’s yellow caps (both sides).
Pry off the purple cap on the naloxone capsule.
Grip the clear plastic wings on the spray nozzle.
Thread the spray nozzle on the syringe.
Gently screw the naloxone capsule into the barrel of the syringe.
Insert white spray nozzle into the patient’s nostril. Give a short, firm push on the end of the naloxone capsule to spray.
Administer half of the capsule into each nostril.
If you are using an intramuscular syringe needle, follow these steps:
Inject 1 cc of naloxone straight into a muscle, such as the thigh, outer side of the glute, and shoulder.
Administer another dose of Narcan if the patient doesn’t respond/wake up after 2-3 minutes.
Where to Find Narcan
Fortunately, Narcan is becoming more widely available. You can purchase Narcan over the counter in many pharmacies. Local health clinics and community health centers may offer naloxone training and distribution.
You can also order it online from websites like Narcan.com4. Some states will even send it to you for free—search “free Narcan _(your state or city)_” to find an organization.
How to Care for Someone After You Give Narcan
After you administer Narcan to someone, stay with the person. Emergency services should already be dialed and on their way, but don’t leave the person’s side until medical professionals assist them.
If the person is not breathing or has a weak pulse, continue with CPR if you are trained to do so. Otherwise, ensure the person is lying comfortably on their side with their airways clear to avoid choking on vomit. Once medical professionals arrive, discuss all relevant details to the overdose and what you have done to assist the person (including the type of Narcan you administered and how many doses).
How to Become Trained to Administer Narcan
You can become a trained Narcan administrator through online courses or in-person events. Websites such as Overdose Lifeline5, The Center for Disease Control6, End Overdose7, and American Red Cross8 provide virtual training. You can typically become certified in an hour or less.
Sometimes, you can receive training in person at harm reduction events. Some states may have a map showing where you can get trained, such as Colorado’s End Overdose page9.
However, even if you are not Narcan trained, you can and should still use it to save someone’s life.
You’ve caught a whiff of something strange in your home, on your loved one’s clothes, or maybe in their car. When unfamiliar odors have you worried and trying to figure out if someone you care about is using substances, it’s natural to wonder, “What do drugs smell like?”
It’s a scary place to be. Maybe it’s your teenager coming home with an odd smell, your partner acting differently, or a family member whose behavior has you concerned.
Many drugs do have distinctive smells that can help you identify what’s going on. Here’s how to know what different drugs smell like, what other signs to watch for, and most importantly, what to do if your suspicions are confirmed so you can handle this difficult situation with care.
Why Do Drugs Smell?
Drugs develop certain odors for several reasons. Some substances naturally have strong chemical smells because of their composition or the ingredients used to make them. Others pick up odors from how they’re manufactured, stored, or consumed.
The strongest smells normally come from drugs that are smoked, as burning or heating any substance tends to create odors that linger. You might catch these smells on clothes, in bedrooms, cars, or even on the person themselves.
Sometimes the smell comes directly from the drug, and other times it’s from whatever tools or materials they used to ingest it. Drug manufacturing often involves harsh chemicals too, which is often largely responsible for how street drugs smell.
What Do Different Drugs Smell Like?
1. Marijuana
Marijuana has one of the most recognizable drug smells—often described as skunky, earthy, or piney. Different strains can smell quite different from each other, ranging from citrusy to very pungent.
The smell is strongest when marijuana is smoked or heated, and it can linger on clothes and in rooms for hours or days. Research shows that over 200 compounds contribute to marijuana’s complex smell,2 which changes based on freshness and storage time. Marijuana stored longer tends to have stronger, more noticeable odors than freshly packaged marijuana.
2. Crack Cocaine
When someone smokes crack, it creates a distinct smell that people compare to burnt plastic or melting rubber. It’s a strong chemical odor2 that sticks around on clothes and in whatever space it was used in.
This smell is especially noticeable in small, enclosed spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, or cars. Regular powder cocaine usually doesn’t have much of a smell.
3. Methamphetamine (Meth)
Meth has a strong chemical smell that people describe as ammonia-like, similar to cat urine, or like burning plastic. The smell can be especially strong around meth labs3 because the manufacturing process uses harsh chemicals like acetone, battery acid, and drain cleaner. Meth production also often uses sulfuric acid which can smell like rotten eggs.
If someone uses meth regularly, their sweat can start to smell like those chemicals. You might notice this on their breath or clothes, even when they’re not actively using.
4. PCP (Phencyclidine), a.k.a. Angel Dust
PCP is a strong hallucinogen that doesn’t smell like much of anything by itself. But when people smoke it, usually by sprinkling it on marijuana or tobacco, the smoke has a strong ammonia smell4 kind of like industrial cleaning products. The fumes are harsh and might make your eyes water.
5. Heroin
Pure heroin usually doesn’t smell like much. But street heroin often has additives that can make it smell like vinegar. When someone heats heroin to inject it, it might smell sweet and tar-like.
Fentanyl usually doesn’t smell like anything at all, which makes it especially dangerous—not just because people often can’t tell when it’s mixed with other drugs, but also because even a tiny amount can be deadly. This powerful opioid is often cut into other substances without people knowing, which means it’s easy for people to take it accidentally when they think they’re using something else.
Learn more about why this drug is so deadly—and how to recognize signs of use before it’s too late—in our article on the dangers of fentanyl.
7. Synthetic Marijuana (K2, Spice, Etc.)
Synthetic cannabinoids can be tricky because they’re designed to look and sometimes even smell like regular cannabis. But the chemicals used to make them can give off strange odors—some batches smell like mothballs, while others don’t have any scent at all. Because these drugs are made by spraying chemicals onto dried plant material,6 the smell can be inconsistent or artificial. And when there’s no odor at all, it can be harder to tell what you’re actually using—which adds to the risk.
Masking Smells
Some people try to cover up the smell of drugs with air fresheners, incense, or strong cologne or perfume. So if someone suddenly starts relying on heavy scents to mask odors, it could be a sign that something’s going on behind the scenes.
What About Drug Paraphernalia?
You might not always smell the drugs themselves—but you could notice personal items that carry a strong, unusual scent. Knowing what to watch for can help you connect the dots.
Tools used for smoking:
Glass, metal, or wooden pipes (often with burn marks or residue)
Homemade pipes made from carved apples, aluminum cans with holes, or plastic bottles
Rolling papers, blunt wraps, or torn pieces of paper
Multiple lighters or small torches
Mirrors, razor blades, or plates with white residue
Modified vape pens
Items used for injection:
Small plastic bags with corners cut off
Spoons with burn marks on the bottom
Syringes or needles
Cotton balls or Q-tips with stains
Rubber tubing, belts, or shoelaces used as tourniquets
Things like clothing, towels, or bags often take on the scent of whatever substance was used. If something seems out of place, stashed away, or suddenly smells off—especially alongside changes in behavior—it’s worth paying attention to.
Think You Smell Something? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’re noticing a smell that might be related to drug use, try not to panic or jump to conclusions. Take a step back, and give yourself a moment to gather more information first. It can help to ask yourself:
Where exactly is the smell coming from?
When do you notice it most?
Are there other signs or changes happening at the same time?
How is the person acting overall?
Could there be a non-drug explanation for what you’re smelling?
When something feels off, it’s natural to want to know more. But try to hold off on confronting someone in the moment, especially if they might be under the influence. Instead, wait for a calmer time when you can have a more productive conversation.
Other Signs to Pay Attention To (Beyond Just Smell)
Smell can be a clue, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Changes in behavior, appearance, and relationships often tell you more than scent alone. If you’re noticing a combination of signs, it may be time to look a little closer.
Behavioral Changes
Big shifts in personality or mood
Being secretive about where they go or who they’re with
Getting defensive over small questions
Losing interest in hobbies or things they used to care about
Trouble at work or school
Unusual sleep patterns or eating habits
Physical Signs
Red or bloodshot eyes, or pupils that seem unusually large or small
Frequent nosebleeds or a constantly runny nose (without being sick)
Poor hygiene or changes in grooming
Unexplained injuries, bruises, or marks
Shaky hands, slurred speech, or other changes in coordination
A persistent cough or raspy voice
Social and Financial Signs
Hanging out with a new crowd they won’t talk about
Missing money or valuables
Financial struggles or suddenly asking for money
Pulling away from close friends or family
Legal trouble or risky decisions
No single sign means something is definitely wrong. But when several of these things are happening at once, it’s worth paying attention. You know your loved one. If something feels off, it’s okay to trust your instincts.
How to Talk to Your Loved One About Drug Use
Confronting a loved one about their drug abuse is challenging, but necessary. How you approach it matters: A thoughtful, compassionate conversation can open the door to real change.
Before You Talk
Pick a time when you’re both calm and they’re not under the influence
Think about what you want to say, focusing on specific behaviors you’ve noticed
Be ready to listen more than you talk
Have some ideas ready for how you can help
During the Conversation
Use “I” statements like “I’ve noticed…” instead of “You always…”
Don’t use labels or give ultimatums
Tell them you love them and you’re worried about their health
Ask questions and actively listen to their answers
Be prepared for denial or anger—that’s normal
After the Conversation
Follow through on anything you promised
Keep showing love and support, but don’t enable their drug addiction
Take care of your own mental health too
Consider support groups for families dealing with addiction
One conversation probably won’t fix everything. Recovery usually takes time, professional help, and patience from everyone who cares about the person.
Get more tips on how to approach your loved one in our conversation guide.
Getting Professional Help
If someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse, professional help is available:
A qualified addiction healthcare specialist can work with your loved one to create a personalized treatment plan based on a thorough assessment of their health history, behavioral health, and social factors. The most effective addiction treatment program for them will depend on their individual needs and circumstances.
Moving Forward With Support
If someone you care about is using drugs, you can provide support by keeping communication open, creating a supportive environment, setting clear boundaries, and helping them connect with the right professional help.
Drug rehab admissions staff are usually happy to perform a brief, over-the-phone assessment, explain your options, and help you find the right care. Use our treatment finder to search for a recovery center today.
FAQs
Q: Can you smell if someone is doing drugs?
A: Sometimes, yes. Certain drugs like marijuana, crack cocaine, and meth have distinctive smells that can linger in closed spaces, one someone’s clothes, or even in their sweat. However, some drugs like fentanyl and powder cocaine are largely odorless, making detection by smell impossible.
Q: What drugs have a strong smell?
A: Marijuana, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine typically have the strongest, most recognizable smells. Marijuana smells skunky and earthy, crack smells like burnt plastic, PCP smells like industrial cleaning products, and meth has an ammonia-like chemical odor.
Q: Why does meth smell?
A: Meth has a strong chemical smell because of the harsh chemicals used to make it, including ammonia and other industrial substances. When smoked, these chemicals create a distinctive odor that many compare to ammonia or burning plastic.
Q: What does heroin smell and look like?
A: Pure heroin often has little smell, but street heroin may have a vinegar-like odor due to additives. When heated, it can smell sweet and tar-like. Heroin is often sold as a white or brown powder. Black tar heroin is dark brown or black and sticky.
Q: Can you smell fentanyl?
A: No, fentanyl is generally odorless, which makes it particularly dangerous. People often can’t detect its presence by smell, even when it’s mixed with other drugs.
Q: What does crack cocaine smell like when smoked?
A: Crack cocaine smells like burnt plastic when smoked. This chemical odor is unique and quite strong, often lingering on clothes and in spaces where it’s been used.
Q: How can you identify drugs by their smell?
A: While some drugs have characteristic odors, smell alone isn’t reliable for identification. Marijuana can smell piney, citrusy, or like a skunk; crack smells like burnt plastic; heroin smells like vinegar; and meth smells like ammonia. However, many factors can affect these different smells, and some drugs are odorless.
Q: What does marijuana smell like compared to other drugs?
A: Marijuana has a distinctive “skunky,” earthy smell that’s quite different from other drugs. Unlike the chemical smells of meth or crack, marijuana has more natural, plant-like odors with sour or citrusy notes.
Q: What are the common odors associated with illegal drugs?
A: Common drug odors include: skunky/earthy (marijuana), burnt plastic (crack cocaine), ammonia/chemicals (meth and PCP), vinegar (some heroin), and mothballs (some synthetic drugs). Many drugs, however, have little to no smell.
Detox usually lasts at least a couple of days, but many factors can affect how long detox lasts and your side effects. Getting proper care during this sensitive time is vital. Licensed professionals will help you understand how long the detox process is and safely guide you through it.
These days can provide an opportunity to start a healthier life, and detox can help lay the foundation for success. Residential or outpatient treatment can further equip you with necessary skills to maintain sobriety. To begin your journey towards a healthier life, explore the various detox services available.
Factors Affecting Detox Duration
Here are 4 things to consider when talking with a doctor about what your detox process will look like:
How long you’ve been using the substance
To what extent you’ve been using the substance
If you’ve been using just one substance vs multiple substances
Individual factors, such as overall health, mental health conditions, and metabolism
Detox Timeline for Common Substances
Every substance, and every person, is different, but this is what you can expect to encounter during detox for each substance.
Alcohol
Alcohol detox usually lasts 2 – 10 days1. Symptoms appear within 6 – 24 hours after quitting drinking and are most severe during the 36 – 72 hour period. Symptoms include:
Anxiety
Sweating
Tremors
Dehydration
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Insomnia
Nausea and vomiting
Severe withdrawal may involve complications like:
Seizures
Hallucinations
Delirium tremens
Extreme agitation
Alcohol detox can be life threatening, so doing this with medical care is vital.
Opioids/Heroin
Opioids are drugs such as heroin, opium, morphine, codeine, and methadone. Detox can last 4 – 20 days, depending on the opioid used1. Quick-acting opioids like heroin typically have a shorter duration than long-acting opioids like fentanyl. Withdrawal symptoms usually appear in 8 – 12 hours after quitting. Symptoms include:
Nausea and vomiting
Anxiety
Insomnia
Hot and cold flashes
Sweating
Muscle cramps
Diarrhea
Opioid withdrawal can be safely worked through as long as you are detoxing with medical supervision.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are psychoactive drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. Doctors prescribe them to treat anxiety and sleeping disorders. This drug is relatively easy to become addicted to, so if you are prescribed benzodiazepines, you should use them with caution.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal could be fatal, so it’s important to taper off these with guidance from medical professionals.
Meth/Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs such as methamphetamine, amphetamine, and cocaine. Detox usually lasts 3 – 5 days1, and symptoms begin within 24 hours of quitting. Symptoms include:
Agitation and irritability
Depression
Increased sleeping and appetite
Muscle aches
Particularly those who use methamphetamine can develop hallucinations, paranoia, or depressed thoughts during detox.
Meth and stimulant withdrawal can be safely worked through as long as you detox with medical support.
Barbiturates
Barbiturates are depressant drugs prescribed for sleep aid, muscle spasms, anxiety relief, and seizure prevention. Detox usually lasts around 2 weeks, and symptoms appear 2 – 4 days after stopping the medication2. Symptoms include:
Barbiturate detox can be life-threatening, so it’s vital to do so under medical supervision.
Marijuana
Marijuana detox typically lasts 1 – 2 weeks1, and the symptoms are relatively mild compared to other detoxification processes. However, this can still be an uncomfortable experience. Symptoms include:
Anxiety
Feelings of fear or dissociation
Restlessness
Irritability
Poor appetite
Disturbed sleep
Gastrointestinal upsets
Night sweats
Tremors
Marijuana withdrawal can be safely worked through as long as you detox with medical supervision.
Your Unique Experience Detoxing
Taking all of this into account, detox duration and experience can vary from person to person.
The detox process can negatively affect your co-occurring disorder(s)4 or vice versa. This could apply to medical disorders or mental disorders. Agitation, depression, or hallucinations can appear during detox, so if your mental health issues include these, they may be heightened during this process.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have. It’s very important that they take these into account when deciding what medication to give you, your tapering timeline, etc.
Medical Detox vs. Other Forms of Detox
Detox is a broad term, and the general definition is to rid the body of toxic things. When we hear “detox,” we may first think of using dandelion tea to cleanse our bodies, or holistically-based cellular detox.
Medical detox, what we’ve been covering in this article, involves ridding the body of drugs or alcohol under the supervision of licensed medical professionals. Often, this involves using medication to assist the detoxification, like methadone and diazepam.
Coming off of any substance could have negative or life threatening effects, so this process shouldn’t be taken lightly. Your detox beyond dandelion tea needs to be medically monitored for your own safety and well being.
Detoxing Safely With Professional Guidance
Substance detox is a complicated process that requires professional guidance 24/71. Doctors can help you safely rid yourself of the substance. You could risk harming yourself if you detox without proper care. You might also relapse without the guidance of a doctor. Having professionals there helps make this uncomfortable experience as comfortable as possible.
Evaluation: testing how substance use has affected your body and creating a plan
Stabilization: medically assisted detox to get you to a stable, substance-free state
Fostering the patient’s entry into treatment: emphasizing the importance that you follow through with a substance abuse program to maintain your sobriety
During detox, you usually won’t participate in talk therapy because you’re in a susceptible, healing state. The real work and self growth comes after detox. During residential or outpatient care, you’ll work in individual and group therapy sessions using a variety of methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a highly effective treatment for addiction6. This is because it targets the thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns that are common in substance use disorder.
You can build a support network with your therapists, peers, and family. You’ll learn to identify the early warning signs of relapse. You can even participate in relapse prevention groups. And in treatment, you’ll have more time to solidify your new coping skills.
Addiction is more than just using substances, and recovery is more than just detoxing from those substances. It’s impacted your perspective and how you think. Treatment can guide you back to a better place by shifting how you view yourself, your surroundings, and your future.
A Step Forward You can try your best to plan for what your detox may look like, but the bottom line is that there are a lot of variables. Detoxing safely with medical professionals ensures that the bumps along the road during this process can be molehills instead of mountains. Explore where your new journey will take you by starting with detox.
