Question by Joshua H: Is Meth related brain damage permanent?
This is a question about a buddy of mine who I used to “party” with allot.
He has gained allot of weight, and has been clean off of Meth for at least 3 years now. Before, and even during the time he was on Meth, he had a gift for writing and poetry, but now he is unable to write, or concentrate on writing, and even when he does manage to concentrate, he never gets anything but a couple lines out anymore before he gets too frustrated and don’t write anymore. I’ve seen him get ideas, excitedly grab some paper, sit and write a few things and then be totally lost and literally unable to write any more. We both think it probably has allot to do with his history of Meth addiction, although it didn’t happen until after he got clean. He also stays in his house all year around, barely goes outside, barely associates with people, eats allot, sleeps allot, basically a hermit. So I guess my quests are this:
If this is Meth related brain damage causing this, how long does it take before your brain can be repaired? And, is this common with people who get clean from Meth Addiction? I assumed they would live more “normal” lives then when on the drug, but going clean seems to have really screwed him up.
Best answer:
Answer by J
Yes, meth can cause a lot of brain damage. It could get better over time or it may not. It depends how much damage was done, on his particular brain and genetics, etc. Seeing a psychiatrist that deals with addicts or people in recovery and getting on some psychiatric medication may be able to help some. Especially with his behavior of isolating himself which could be signs of depression caused by his drug use. A medication could help get his brain chemistry functioning a little more stably.
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