Meth can quietly take hold of your life before you realize it. Maybe you started using to stay awake, manage stress, or escape painful emotions. But over time, it's become impossible to stop. If you’ve tried to quit before and struggled with withdrawal, it may feel overwhelming. You don’t have to do this on your own, though; healing support is here.
Detoxing from meth gives you a chance to find balance so you feel safe, steady, and ready for the next step in recovery. Whether this is your first detox or you’re returning after a relapse, the Spring Grove Recovery team is here with 24/7 support. With compassion, dignity, and clinical expertise, we’ll walk alongside you every step of the way.
What is meth detox?
Detox is the process of safely clearing methamphetamine from your system while managing withdrawal symptoms that may be distressing or risky. Medically supervised detox is the safest first step on the path toward recovery.
When you stop using, your body processes meth out within a few days, but your brain—especially dopamine systems—takes longer to heal. That’s why professional support is so important: it helps you stabilize physically, emotionally, and mentally while your brain begins to reset.
At Spring Grove Recovery, detox care is grounded in evidence-based protocols and supported by a team committed to dignity and compassion. Our location in Colorado’s Front Range offers privacy, peace, and a restorative setting for healing.
Understanding methamphetamine withdrawal and detoxification
Withdrawal from methamphetamine is different from detox. Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that occur after you stop using. Detox is the supervised medical process that helps you move through withdrawal safely. Rehab, on the other hand, is the longer-term therapeutic work that helps you build resilience and prevent relapse. Each stage matters.
Addiction is not only physical—it changes how the brain processes reward and stress. That’s why detox is more than just abstinence. It’s a reset point that gives your body time to recover while trained professionals support you through the hardest days.
Meth detox vs. meth withdrawal vs. meth rehab
These three terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they mean different things:
- Meth withdrawal: The natural reaction of the body and mind once meth use stops, often marked by exhaustion, cravings, and depression.
- Meth detox: The medically guided process that helps you navigate withdrawal safely, using supportive care, medications, and monitoring.
- Meth rehab: The longer-term phase of treatment where therapy, counseling, and community support help you rebuild your life.
Detox opens the door, withdrawal is the hurdle, and rehab is the bridge to lasting recovery.
Why professional stimulant detox matters
Attempting to quit “cold turkey” at home may sound straightforward, but meth withdrawal can bring severe depression, psychosis, or heart problems. Our detox program provides:
- Continuous monitoring and immediate intervention if complications arise
- Professional oversight of medications for mood, sleep, and cravings
- Nutritional and hydration support
- Emotional reassurance in a calm, restorative environment
- A smooth transition to residential care in the same location
At Spring Grove Recovery, our medical detox program creates a safe foundation for lasting healing. Clients benefit not only from 24/7 medical supervision, but also from trauma-informed, compassionate care designed to meet them where they are.
Meth withdrawal symptoms and signs
Meth withdrawal will impact your body and mind. Common symptoms include:
Physical symptoms
- Fatigue and oversleeping
- Intense appetite (especially for sweets)
- Headaches, muscle aches, body tension
- Sweating and chills
- Digestive changes, nausea, or stomach upset
- Shakiness or tremors
Psychological symptoms
- Depression (sometimes severe, with suicidal thoughts)
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Anhedonia (difficulty feeling pleasure)
- Paranoia, delusions, or psychosis in severe cases
- Cravings that come in strong waves
- Vivid dreams or nightmares
- Mood swings and irritability
Meth detox side effects vs. withdrawal symptoms
While withdrawal symptoms are the body’s natural reaction to the absence of meth, detox side effects may result from the stabilization process. For example, drowsiness from medications or temporary stomach upset from reintroducing regular meals—especially since you're likely to be hungrier—are common. Both are carefully managed in our professional setting.
Meth detox timeline: How long does it take?
Most people finish our meth detox program in five to seven days. Withdrawal symptoms typically peak within the first couple of days.
- 0–24 hours (the crash): Fatigue, irritability, extended sleep, and initial cravings
- Days 1–7 (acute withdrawal): Strong cravings, depression, anxiety, body discomfort
- Weeks 2–4+ (post-acute withdrawal or PAWS): Mood swings, lower energy, occasional cravings, and emotional instability
- Months 1–6: Some individuals experience lingering mood dips, cognitive slowness, or stress-related cravings
Your journey will be unique. The severity and timeline of your symptoms depend on your use history, personal health, and other factors.
Is meth detox dangerous?
Meth detox can carry risks. Warning signs that require emergency care include:
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Severe depression or inability to function
- Hallucinations or psychosis
- Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure
- Confusion, agitation, or violent behavior
Our medical staff provides constant monitoring and safety planning to ensure you’re never alone in these moments. If an emergency arises, we're right by your side to provide immediate attention to keep you safe.
Safety planning and monitoring during detox
At Spring Grove Recovery, safety is our first priority. Every client receives:
- Regular monitoring of vitals
- 24/7 access to nurses and physicians
- Suicide risk assessment and mental health screenings
- Structured schedules that provide rest, therapy, and nutrition
- Crisis response protocols for medical or psychological emergencies
Our Colorado Springs center is designed for comfort as well as safety, offering quiet spaces for rest and therapy rooms for both group and individual sessions.
Medical meth detox options
Inpatient detox
Inpatient programs offer 24/7 monitoring, medication management, and therapeutic support in a residential environment. This option is best for those with severe withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring conditions, or limited home support.
Outpatient detox
Outpatient detox provides scheduled visits for monitoring and counseling, making it suitable for those with stable housing and mild symptoms. It offers flexibility but is less safe for people at high risk of relapse or complications.
Who is a candidate?
- Inpatient: People with high-risk withdrawal, co-occurring disorders, or lack of sober supports at home
- Outpatient: People with stable housing, strong family/friend support, and mild symptoms
Spring Grove offers inpatient detox and residential addiction treatment on the same campus. Our clients can seamlessly move from stabilization into rehab programming without disruption. We do not offer outpatient detox or rehab programs, but can connect you with that type of care if you need it when you call.
24/7 support right here in Colorado Springs.
Evidence-based treatment after detox
Detox is the first step, but recovery continues with therapies that target the underlying addiction. Spring Grove Recovery offers:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Identify and change harmful thought patterns
- Dual diagnosis care: Integrated treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Support groups: Connection with others in recovery through Refuge Recovery, SMART Recovery, and 12-step meetings
- Trauma therapy: Process your experiences so you can take healthier steps forward
During residential care, clients will also work on an aftercare plan and one for preventing relapse. We want to make sure everyone has the tools they need to stay sober when they're leaving our campus.
Meth detox medications: what helps and what doesn’t
Currently, no FDA-approved medications exist solely for meth detox. However, medications may help ease symptoms:
- Bupropion or naltrexone: May reduce cravings
- Antipsychotics: Manage hallucinations or paranoia
- Sleep and mood aids: Support rest and stability
- Blood pressure medications: Help control cardiovascular stress
Medication-assisted treatment and medication management are not right for everyone. We'll work with you to create a personalized plan for the road ahead so you stay safe, stable, and ready to overcome challenges.
Relapse prevention and craving management
Relapse prevention begins as soon as you stop using and get stable. To prevent relapse, you'll learn to:
- Identify personal triggers
- Build coping strategies like journaling, mindfulness, and exercise
- Develop support networks through family, peers, and counselors
- Stay accountable with follow-ups and drug testing
- Engage in meaningful routines, hobbies, or work to replace meth use
- Find community support, like sober living or recovery groups
Spring Grove also offers structured aftercare planning so clients leave rehab with clear connections to ongoing therapy, support groups, and sober living resources.
Choosing the right detox center
When considering a program, ask about:
- Accreditation and licensure
- Medical supervision and psychiatric care
- Availability of 24/7 support
- Aftercare planning and relapse prevention
- Insurance acceptance and payment options
- Transparent clinical practices and staff credentials
Spring Grove Recovery is accredited by The Joint Commission and staffed by licensed addiction clinicians who are committed to your safety and dignity. To make treatment more accessible, we proudly accept Colorado Medicaid and work with clients to help them understand coverage.
What to expect in meth detox
1.
Intake and assessment
You’ll undergo a thorough evaluation, including vitals, labs, and mental health screening.
2.
Daily schedule
Expect balanced meals, rest periods, and to gain connections to counseling and support groups.
3.
Comfort measures
We provide hydration and nutritional support, quiet rest spaces, and emotional reassurance throughout the process.
4.
Transitioning to rehab
Once you’re stable, our team helps you transition smoothly to residential or outpatient treatment for long-term recovery. On-site inpatient treatment at Spring Grove makes this process seamless.
Begin healing at Spring Grove Recovery today
Spring Grove Recovery is a place where hope is restored, healing begins, and your story isn’t defined by your past. Our Colorado Springs center provides not only detox but also a full continuum of care, from inpatient treatment to aftercare support. Our team is here 24/7 to answer questions, provide guidance, and help you take your first steps. Get in touch at 719.415.3460 or by reaching out online now.
Frequently asked questions
Home detox is not recommended due to risks of relapse, depression, or medical emergencies. Professional care is safest.
Cravings are strongest in the first week but may continue for months in waves. Strategies learned in therapy help you manage them.
Detox addresses withdrawal, but rehab addresses the deeper causes of addiction. Continuing treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Yes. Meth has unique effects on dopamine and brain function, making cravings and depression particularly intense. That’s why specialized care is important.
