As a drug and alcohol intervention specialist, occasionally I am asked if an intervention ever becomes dangerous? Although, generally speaking, we do the best to provide a very caring life-changing event, there is one primary drug that creates more chaos than others. A Heroin addict is generally receptive. An alcoholic, a bit critical but will hear us out. The crack or cocaine abuser, is looking for a quick fix for his problems and thinks that it exists for recovery as well. The methamphetamine abuser, however, is a complete roll of the dice. In almost every case of violence an danger, methamphetamine has been the drug of choice in the client.

Although complex to manufacture in the 1970’s, by the 1990’s, methods of manufacture became simplified. No longer necessary to have an extensive knowledge of chemistry, almost anyone with a few simple household goods common in any town could create quick batches of newer, more potent methamphetamine within hours instead of days. But, as always, there is a price.

If drugs didn’t have an initial positive effect, no one would abuse them. Methamphetamine affects the naturally occurring endorphins within our body. Adrenaline, dopamine and serotonin course through our veins which gives the user feelings of euphoria, intense energy, and the idea that one can conquer the world.

In the beginning stages or meth abuse, temporary mood disorders begin. Major mood swings can begin. Major depression one minute, followed by a major manic swing. Restlessness kicks in with the need or desire to be constantly doing something. For some, cleaning the house over and over is common. For others taking things apart is the answer. Their is no rational reason…just the desire. This is referred to as “tweaking”.

In addition to mood swings, and obsessive compulsive traits, later stages of methamphetamine usage result in major psychotic breaks. Hearing voices or seeing people following them that aren’t really there are rather common. In worst cases the meth user will try and “defend” themselves from those people involved in the conspiracy against him.

Having 10 interventionists on staff, occasionally we have seen violence…in almost every case methamphetamine was involved. It is sometimes impossible to speak rationally to someone who, for all intents and purposes, isn’t even really there. Explosively reactive, completely unwilling to take any accountability, blaming everyone else for any slight discomfort in their life, the meth abuser often attacks, sometimes the family, oftentimes the interventionist. This is why many consider an intervention on a methamphetamine abuser to be the most dangerous of interventions.

If you are interested about anintervention. Stop by David Lee’s site where you can find out all about meth interventions and other types and what they can do for you or your loved one.