History of Meth Abuse

Jul 2019 History of Meth Abuse

Many people believe that meth is a modern problem, one starting in the 1990s and sweeping rapidly across the nation. While meth did increase in popularity in the past several decades, the drug actually started its damaging journey in the late 1800s. Learn more about the history of meth to understand why treatment is so important for yourself and the people you love.

If you suffer addiction to meth and need help, then a quality drug addiction rehab center Southern CA trusts can provide the treatment you need. This help includes a range of therapies and approaches that enable you to heal from your past and plan for a brighter future.

Early History of Meth

The early history of meth started with ephedra plants. These shrubs from all over the globe have held a place in Asian countries and the Americas for treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions. For example, ephedrine comes from this plant, a type of amphetamine first developed in 1887.

By 1893, scientists made amphetamine for the first time from ephedrine. Then in 1919, researchers advanced in this skill by making methamphetamine. Meth is a stronger version of amphetamine. In the 1930s, you could buy amphetamines and meth over-the-counter as energy drugs, diet pills, nasal congestion treatments, as well as antidepressants.

Nazi officials provided their soldiers, sailors, and airmen with meth tablets for World War II. Pervitin was the brand name then of meth as a prescription drug, also sold to the German public over-the-counter. By 1938, Pervitin was very popular in Germany. Hitler even used meth, abused opioids, and also cocaine to fuel his fury.

Methamphetamine abuse found it’s way into American, British, and Japanese culture during World War II, as well, under the nickname “speed.”

Modern History of Meth

By the 1950s and into the 1960s, addiction treatment experts realized speed freaks were suffering major problems related to these drugs. Pop culture icons like Jack Kerouac, William Burroughs, and Allen Ginsberg, all modern writers, used amphetamines as part of their work routine. Kerouac wrote his most famous work, “On the Road” while using speed.

In the 1970s, doctors grew more concerned about speed use. So the government restricted amphetamines from 1971 forward. This is the time that people across the U.S. started cooking their own versions of meth and using product illegally brought in from other countries.

Today, meth labs from coast to coast provide a steady stream of the street drug. Few people who use it truly understand its lengthy history or addictive strength. That is, they do not understand its addictive power until they suffer it themselves. Meth proves quickly addictive and damages every area of your life.

Treatment for Your Critical Meth Addiction

Suffering addiction to meth is suffering, indeed. Ending use after dependence requires great personal strength, desire for a better life, and the right mix of therapies and programs suited to your unique needs. You find that help and support in Palm Springs, CA treatment for meth addiction.

Programs and therapies needed for healthy recovery after meth addiction include:

Phoenix Rising provides all of these programs and therapies in Palm Springs, CA. There, you receive the treatment you need on four beautiful acres, and according to your individualized treatment plan. Your treatment professionals understand the history of meth, as well as your own history with the drug. So for this highly individualized meth addiction treatment and a real chance for a better life, call Phoenix Rising now at 8552328211.