Meth Myths
Methamphetamine has received a large volume of media attention recently, and the topic ranks among the most frequently presented issues at conferences around the country. This has led to the dissemination of a great deal of accurate information. Unfortunately, however, it has also led to the spread of many myths. The information that follows presents a few of the most prevalent meth myths − and the facts.
Myth #1: Methamphetamine dependence is not treatable.
The Facts: Across research studies with meth, relapse rates appear to be about equal to what is seen in studies of cocaine dependence. For example, in the Methamphetamine Treatment Project, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 60 percent of participants reported no methamphetamine use in the previous month and provided a methamphetamine-negative urine sample.
Myth #2: The average length of time from first use of meth to death is five years.
The Facts: There is no data available that details the average length of time between initiation of meth use and death from meth. However, in recent research studies conducted on more than 1,000 methamphetamine users, the average length of time of methamphetamine use for clients prior to entering the treatment study was about 7½ years. This number appears to be consistent across methamphetamine treatment studies.
Myth #3: Meth causes holes in the brain.
The Facts: It is true that meth changes the way the brain
functions. The idea that meth causes actual holes in the brain
results from a misunderstanding of the images that are created
using complex scanning machines.
Functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans showing brain
activity depict areas of low or no activity as holes. These
scans depict functional changes, not the actual structure of
the brain. In other words, the apparent “holes”
in the image indicate areas in the brain that are inactive,
not holes in the structure of the brain.
Myth #4: Using meth once results in addiction.
The Facts: It is true that meth is powerfully reinforcing and that people generally report positive effects on their first use. However, as with all substances, dependence develops with repeated use. This myth is very dangerous, especially to younger users. If people are able to use methamphetamine once and then not use it again for a long period of time, they may come to one of two conclusions: (1) they can use methamphetamine and not become dependent, since this did not happen with their first use; or (2) since this message about addiction was not true, none of the messages about the dangers of methamphetamine should be believed.
Myth #5: No special treatment is needed for meth users.
The Facts: Meth causes specific problems for the user that must be addressed in treatment. For instance, meth users often have memory and concentration problems, making it difficult for them to plan for appropriate activities or manage their time in such a way that they stay away from situations which may pull them back to use. Users may also fail to get treatment. Due to the highenergy, chaotic life that accompanies stimulant use, helping a meth user join a treatment program requires providers to take certain steps. Additionally, highly structured interventions that guide the person from one step to the next in gaining sobriety and entering treatment increase the likelihood of success. About 1½ months after stopping use, clients often experience a prolonged period of significant depressive feelings and find it difficult to find pleasure in anything (anhedonia). These feelings are signs that the brain is healing. If the person can be helped to understand that this process is normal, and if support can be provided for getting through this period, he or she will experience relief on the other side. However, this sudden depressive shift can take unprepared users (and treatment providers) by surprise and lead to relapse.
Myth #6: Meth is used primarily by White male bikers and truck drivers.
The Facts: Meth use in these populations is well-documented. However, meth has spread far beyond these groups, and high rates of use are seen among extremely diverse groups of people.
