What Should I Know About Bath Salts?
Bath salts may sound like a substance you put in your bathtub but do not let the name mislead you. Bath salts are a powerful drug that can bring the same toxic results as MDMA or amphetamines. As soon as you develop an addiction, it is important you seek help right away before dealing with the consequences.
What are bath salts?
Bath salts are synthetic stimulants that mimic hard drugs like MDMA and cocaine and are not traced through drug tests. These are considered legal highs that can be purchased at gas stations, convenience stores, and online.
What are the symptoms of bath salt addiction?
Bath salts can increase alertness, bring toxic results to your heart and respiratory system, improved mood, muscle tremors, sweating, seizures, stroke, coma, and more. Psychological effects can include paranoia, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, violent tendencies, memory loss, self-mutilation, psychosis, and depression.
When am I at risk for bath salt addiction?
According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, people between the ages of 16-21 years old are at risk. If you are part of the party drug scene as well and taking ecstasy can increase the risk of experimenting bath salts. You can also be at risk for addiction if you want the same effects of cocaine or other amphetamines.
How do I know I need help?
Damage can happen to you after a single use of bath salts so it is important to get help right away. You know you have an addiction when you continue to use bath salts despite the negative consequences like obtaining large quantities, cannot get through normal life without them, experience dangerous withdrawal symptoms, have a constant craving for them, have constant visits to the emergency room, or engage in criminal activity as a result of bath salts.
What are common withdrawal symptoms of bath salts?
Common withdrawal symptoms include a sweaty odor, insomnia, fatigue, not being able to concentrate, increased appetite, nasal congestion, and irritability.
What are different types of rehab I can go to for treatment?
There are inpatient rehabs where you can be medically monitored when you deal with withdrawal symptoms. Living in residential treatment will provide you with life skills that will teach you how to live life normally. Luxury rehabs can make you feel like you are on vacation during recovery. Executive rehabs allow you to continue your career which getting treatment with privacy. Depending on your addiction severity, you can also do outpatient therapy if you feel you cannot take an extended break from life. Outpatient therapy can teach you about abstinence and coping skills like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Sober living communities can surround you with the support of other recovering addicts.
