Beckley, WV – “Even though meth is the deadliest illicit substance in West Virginia behind fentanyl, few people can tell it apart from other substances, including common household items like sugar or flour,” West Virginia addiction recovery center Hope for Tomorrow states in their recent blog. Knowing how to identify meth is important in case you find it in your loved one’s belongings, or even if you take it yourself, they say. That’s exactly what they cover in the rest of the blog.
The first topic is what meth looks like. “Meth comes in several different forms but is most commonly found in crystalline chunks, known as crystal meth, or in a powdered form,” the blog describes. Crystal meth looks like broken glass, with a clear, white, or even bluish tint, the article says. Powdered meth is fine, white, and easily confused with other powder, according to the blog. However, “Powdered meth might still have a few crystalline chunks in it, which can be an easier way to differentiate it from other things that come in a white powder form,” the article says.
The article then ventures into the scent of meth, but not without a warning that the reader shouldn’t smell meth, and this section is only for educational purposes. “Pure meth doesn’t have much of a scent at all, but meth sold on the street isn’t pure. It’s full of toxic chemicals like ammonia, lithium, battery acid, cleaning products, and red phosphorus, just to name a few,” the blog shares. According to the article, it smells most like ammonia or even cat urine.
Then, the blog covers the taste of meth: “If you were to taste meth, chances are it would be very bitter, and taste similar to how it smells, depending on its chemical makeup. People who regularly take meth typically avoid taking it orally, and even smoking it can leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth.”
The next topic of discussion is how to identify meth mixed with other substances. The article claims fentanyl is the largest concern. “Fentanyl is odorless and indistinguishable from meth to the naked eye. It’s also usually in meth supplies without the knowledge of people utilizing it,” Hope for Tomorrow shares. They also address the belief that mixing meth and opioids prevents overdose, saying it’s false. “In fact, over 60% of people who lost their lives to meth overdose in 2021 also had fentanyl present in their system. In another study, more people overdosed on fentanyl and meth combined than either individually.” They stress the importance of using fentanyl test strips if someone intends to take meth.
Next, the article takes a moment to delve into the street names of meth so people can identify it verbally or by text. Some of these names include speed, crank, ice, crystal, glass, and tweak. “Because coordination of getting meth often happens over text or messaging applications, learning the emojis representing meth is also useful. People often send blue emojis for meth, such as a blue heart, diamond, crystal ball, or test tube. They also might use ice-cream emojis,” the blog adds.
Hope for Tomorrow also provides tips on how to talk to a loved one if the reader finds meth in their belongings. First, they suggest calling a local recovery center for help disposing of the meth. Then, it’s important to talk to them. “No matter what, empathy is most important. Do some research on treatment facilities and meth addiction before you talk to them so you can approach the conversation with a deeper understanding of the situation,” the blog instructs. “If they are on the road to a meth addiction, or already traveling on it, your concern could be just what they need to take the first step toward recovery.”
The blog concludes with a reminder that meth use disorder is a health condition and briefly explains treatment options. “ We encourage you to sit down with your loved one and talk about the next steps toward healing together. Then, take that step and reach out for treatment.”
Hope for Tomorrow provides dual-diagnosis treatment to every West Virginian in need, including veterans, pregnant women, people with additional health conditions, and couples. Their staff is highly passionate about providing a non-judgmental environment where everyone can heal. To learn more, visit their website or call 877-679-8162.
“Treatment today for a brighter tomorrow.”
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For more information about Hope For Tomorrow - Beckley, contact the company here:
Hope For Tomorrow - Beckley
Cristina Villalon
(304) 902-8532
beckley@myhopefortomorrow.com
198 George St
Beckley WV 25801