Health Information ● Sokkiniakia’pi

 

Methamphetamines

​​​​​​​​Methamphetamines is a stimulant that can negatively impact the performance of the central nervous system (brain), respiratory system (breathing), and the cardiovascular system (heart).

It can come in many forms like:

  • pills
  • a powder
  • a liquid
  • a crystal form called crystal meth

When people use stimulants, they report initially feeling more alert and full of energy. The negative effects of methamphetamine can be extreme and alarming, including paranoid delusions, hallucinations, aggressive behaviour and impulsive violence.

Some of the negative side effects of using may include:

  • skin sores
  • feeling confused
  • angry outbursts
  • feeling paranoid or irritable
  • muscle spasms
  • problems with thinking, memory, concentration, and coordination

An overdose of methamphetamine can result in seizures, high body temperature, irregular heartbeat, heart attack, stroke and death. The risk of overdose is highest when the drug is injected. Injecting methamphetamine also puts the user at risk of infections from used needles or impurities in the drug, and of hepatitis or HIV if they share needles with others.

What happens when someone goes through withdrawals from methamphetamines?

When someone goes through methamphetamine withdrawal, there will be negative effects, often the opposite of the initial drug effects. How severe the withdrawals are depends on the person, how long they used, and how much was used.

Methamphetamines sold as street drugs are made up of many chemicals and substances that may be toxic. Medically supervised withdrawal is recommended if the withdrawals are more acute. A doctor, health professional, or counsellor should be consulted. Withdrawal from methamphetamines can last from a few days to a few weeks.

During withdrawal, you might have the following physical symptoms:

  • feeling very tired or disturbed sleep
  • dry mouth
  • headaches
  • feeling anxious, paranoid, or having hallucinations
  • not eating enough
  • muscle spasms

During withdrawal, you might have these emotional symptoms, which can last for weeks or months:

  • feeling depressed or anxious
  • being paranoid
  • not feeling motivated
  • low energy level
  • intense cravings for more meth

Help, treatment and support are available to all community members who are looking for a path to recovery.

Bringing the Spirit Home Detox Program
403-737-8600  | Go to Program

Blood Tribe Wellness Program
403-737-3883 | Go to Program

Lethbridge Wellness Shelter and Stabilization Unit
587-612-5356 | Go to Program

 

Alcohol

Alcohol is a commonly consumed substance that, when used responsibly, can be a part of social activities. However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health problems, addiction, and negative impacts on various aspects of life.

Signs of Alcohol Problems

Recognizing the signs of problematic drinking can help individuals seek the necessary support and intervention. Look out for:

  • Increased Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effects.
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, nausea, or anxiety when not drinking.
  • Loss of Control: Drinking more or for a longer period than intended.
  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to drinking.
  • Continued Use Despite Problems: Continuing to drink even though it causes physical, psychological, or social issues.
  • Preoccupation with Drinking: Spending a lot of time thinking about drinking, obtaining alcohol, or recovering from its effects.
  • Social Isolation: Avoiding social activities that do not involve alcohol or experiencing strained relationships due to drinking habits.

Risks of Alcohol Use

Excessive alcohol consumption carries numerous risks that can affect health, safety, and overall well-being:

  • Long-term heavy drinking can lead to liver diseases such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
  • Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
  • Alcohol can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
  • Increased risk of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon.
  • Higher likelihood of accidents, falls, drownings, and burns due to impaired coordination and judgment.
  • Consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period can lead to alcohol poisoning, a potentially fatal condition.
  • Increased chances of engaging in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex, driving under the influence, or violent behavior.
  • Strained or broken relationships with family, friends, and colleagues due to alcohol-related behavior.
  • Poor performance, absenteeism, and disciplinary actions at work or school.
  • Legal problems related to drunk driving, public intoxication, or other alcohol-related offenses.

 

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, it’s important to seek help. Resources are available to provide support and treatment.

403-737-8600 | Go to Program

The Bringing the Spirit Home (BTSH) program provides hope for those who are fighting drug and/or alcohol addiction. Alongside a team of medical professionals, paramedics, counsellors, peer support workers and elders, the client’s path to recovery is carefully monitored based on their individual needs. Every effort will be made to remove barriers to accessing services.

403-737-3883 | Go to Program

The Blood Tribe Department of Health Wellness Program is dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of the Blood Tribe Community. Our services cater to a wide range of individuals, from children to older adults, and include families and groups. By integrating both Western methods and Siksikaitsitapi ways of knowing and being, our program offers innovative and culturally appropriate health and healing services.

587-612-5356 | Go to Program

The Stabilization Unit focus on recovery­oriented supports, assisting those on their journey of recovery, one step at a time, providing referral pathways. Those requiring supports are welcome on a short-term basis while they stabilize and work to secure a space in detox, treatment or other recovery-oriented supports. We also welcome those in treatment that need assistance with relapse on a short-term basis.

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