The use of methamphetamines (meth) comes with risks, but understanding those risks and knowing how to reduce harm can help you make safer choices. Harm reduction is about being aware of the risks, harms, and effects of methamphetamines, knowing that sometimes things can go wrong, and what you can do to prevent or reduce those risks. It’s rooted in respecting people’s rights and their ability to make their own choices. Understanding harm reduction principles and tips can help keep you and those around you safer.
Why Focus on Meth
Meth is becoming more available and is even being mixed into other drugs, so it’s no surprise you might hear about it more often. It’s becoming more common and easier to come across — whether at parties, through friends, or even by accident in counterfeit pills.
Harm Reduction Strategies
- Eat and drink regularly
Alcohol and drug use, including meth, can suppress your appetite or dehydrate you. Preload on lots of water and healthy foods before you use. You can also set an alarm for a couple of hours after using as a reminder to eat and drink.
- Start small
Start with a low dose to see how it affects you. Everyone’s body reacts differently and with meth, you can never be certain what the product will contain. Starting small reduces the risk of unexpected reactions.
- Take breaks
Overusing meth without a break can cause long-term damage and increase the likelihood of psychosis, heart problems, and more. Give your body and mind time to recover by taking breaks between use.
- Get as much rest as you can
Meth can make you feel like you don’t need sleep, but rest is important for your body and mind to recover. If you’re planning on using meth, try and get as much sleep and rest as you can beforehand. If you can’t sleep, lie down in a dark, quiet room, close your eyes, and try to relax.
- Don’t mix substances
Mixing meth with other drugs or alcohol can make the effects way stronger and more dangerous. To stay safer, stick to using one thing at a time.
- Test your drugs
Fentanyl is showing up in more drugs than ever, and it can be deadly. Use Fentanyl Test Strips to check your meth and help prevent accidental overdoses. If you are wondering where to find them, check out CDPH’s directory of clinics, programs, and organizations that may offer them for free.
- Keep track of use
It’s easy to lose track of how often or how much you’re using meth. Keeping tabs on your use can help you spot patterns and reduce risks. Before you use you could write the date and time down in a journal, note on your phone, or better yet, tell a friend!
- Recognize the signs of trouble
Learn to recognize signs of overdose, such as difficulty breathing, extreme agitation, or loss of consciousness, so you can act quickly if something goes wrong.
Good Samaritan Laws
If you’re worried about calling 911 in an emergency, know that California’s Good Samaritan laws can give you peace of mind. These laws exist to protect you in these situations, making sure you can call for help without worrying about getting into trouble.
Resources
If you or someone you know needs help, you can call SAMHSA’s national helpline at 1-800-622-HELP (4357).
- The helpline is free, private, and available 24 hours a day/7 days a week for individuals and families experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
- They can provide referrals and information on local resources, facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
- You will not be asked or required to give any personal information.
You can also visit their website at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline, or send your zip code via text message to 435748 (HELP4U) to find help near you.
Additional Resources: https://www.waac.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Meth-Harm-Reduction.pdf
Meth And Your Health: What You Need To Know