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1. 5 WAYS
METH DESTROYS
THE BODY AND MIND
The ugly consequences of a deadly drug

2. • Meth is among the most addictive substances on the
planet, causing a dopamine spike in the brain 3 times more
powerful than cocaine and 10 times more powerful than
sex.
• People can become addicted to meth after using the drug
just once.
• Using meth repeatedly changes the brain’s chemistry and
can cause permanent brain damage.
• As of 2008, 12.6 million Americans had used
methamphetamine, according to the Substance Abuse and
Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
FACTS ABOUT METH

3. Meth ruins lives:
Here are 5 ways the drug
affects the body and brain.

4. • Meth cuts off the blood supply to skin, causing
skin to lose its elasticity and luster and causing
acne.
• Meth users frequently pick at their skin, a
phenomenon called “formication,” that leads to
sores and scabs on the skin.
• Meth users often have burns around their
mouths from smoking the drug.
#1: SKIN

5. “FACES OF METH” (PHOTO: MULTNOMAH COUNTY SHERIFF)

6. • Heavy meth users frequently develop tooth decay
and broken and discolored teeth, known as “meth
mouth.”
• Meth reduces saliva production, which causes the
mouth’s acids to erode tooth enamel, and corrosive
chemicals in the drug may also contribute to tooth
decay.
• Meth users frequently consume sugary drinks and
snacks, grind their teeth and generally neglect their
teeth, adding to the problem.
#2: TEETH

7. “METH MOUTH” (COPYRIGHT DR. CHRIS HERINGLAKE, DDS, ST.
CLOUD CORRECTIONAL FACILITY).

8. • Meth causes the brain to release dopamine in
large amounts; over time, meth can damage
the wiring of the brain, permanently altering
users’ ability to experience pleasure.
• Heavy meth use can lead to aggression,
paranoia, and psychotic behavior.
• Meth use causes intense focus that can
become obsessive.
#3: BRAIN

9. • Meth can cause permanent damage to
cognitive abilities; disorganization is a common
problem resulting from meth abuse.
• Meth can cause extreme increases in body
temperature, which can cause brain damage.
• Meth impairs judgment and heightens libido,
which can lead users to engage in risky sexual
behaviors.
#3: BRAIN (CONT’D)

10. • Meth use decreases the body’s ability to fight
infections.
• A weakened immune system leaves users
susceptible to contracting diseases and
infections.
#4: IMMUNE SYSTEM

11. • Meth use can damage the liver and lead to
liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatitis.
• Acute liver damage/failure can ultimately lead
to death.
#5: LIVER

12. Northbound takes a multi-faceted approach to drug and
alcohol treatment, tailoring programs to meet the unique
needs of each client. We have developed
experiential, gender-based and academic programs, among
others, and our professional, highly-trained clinical staff
specializes in dual diagnosis treatment.
For more information about our treatment options, visit
www.livingsober.com.
ABOUT NORTHBOUND TREATMENT
SERVICES