How Meth Use Affects the Brain and Decisions
Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful stimulant that changes the way the brain works. One area it affects is decision-making.
A recent study found that people with meth use disorder (MUD) were less likely to explore new or uncertain options, even when those options might lead to better results.1 For example, while most people might take a chance on something new if it could pay off, people using meth often stick with what feels familiar, even if it doesn’t help them in the long run.
This is not simply about poor memory or “bad choices.” Meth changes brain systems involved in handling risk, reward, and uncertainty. That can make it harder to try new coping skills, new routines, or even new treatments.
Families may notice their loved one:
- Seems “stuck” in certain habits:
- Always using meth at the same time each day, even if it disrupts work, school, or family time.
- Watching the same shows, playing the same games, or hanging out with the same people even when it causes problems.
- Sticking to routines that are unhealthy, like staying up all night and skipping meals, even when they want to feel better.
- Struggles with planning for the future:
- Avoiding decisions about bills, housing, or work, because thinking ahead feels overwhelming.
- Not making appointments or following through on commitments, even when they know it will help.
- Saying things like “I’ll figure it out later” repeatedly, even when the “later” never comes.
- Chooses familiar options even when better ones are available:
- Going back to meth use instead of trying treatment programs or harm reduction strategies.
- Choosing to hang out with friends who use meth rather than spending time with family or supportive peers.
- Picking the same old coping mechanisms (like isolating or bingeing) instead of trying new ways to manage stress.
Understanding this brain change can help families respond with patience instead of frustration.
Why Meth Withdrawal Is So Hard
Another major challenge is withdrawal. When someone stops using meth, the brain is suddenly without the extra dopamine (a “feel-good” chemical) that meth provides. This can cause symptoms such as:2
- Intense fatigue and low energy.
- Depression or hopelessness.
- Strong cravings.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Difficulty focusing or remembering things.
These symptoms can last for weeks, making it very hard to stay away from meth. Unlike alcohol or opioids, there are no FDA-approved medications to ease meth withdrawal. Support from family, peers, and professionals becomes even more important.
How Families Can Support A Loved One
Families often feel powerless, but there are steps you can take to encourage healthier choices. Support doesn’t have to mean forcing treatment; it can start with strategies to reduce the risk around meth use and grow into recovery.
Harm Reduction Strategies:
- Encourage eating healthy meals, drinking water, and resting.
- Offer non-judgmental support — avoid shaming or blaming.
- Talk about safer use practices (such as not using alone) to reduce overdose risk.
- Learn about naloxone (Narcan) if opioid use is also involved, since meth is sometimes mixed with fentanyl.
Check out our Harm Reduction Resource Center for more tips and suggestions.
Encouraging Treatment
- Share options for evidence-based treatment like contingency management (programs that provide rewards for staying substance-free) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Suggest outpatient or residential programs that focus on both substance use and mental health needs.
- Be ready to listen — sometimes what helps most is a calm, open conversation without pressure.
- Celebrate small wins, such as fewer days of use or showing up for an appointment.
Say This, Not That: Supportive Communication for Families
The words you use can make a big difference. Here are some examples of more supportive ways to talk with your loved one:
Instead of: “Why can’t you just stop?”
Say: “I know quitting is really hard. I’m here to support you in any way I can.”
Instead of: “You’re ruining your life.”
Say: “I care about you and I’m worried about how meth is affecting your health and happiness.”
Instead of: “If you loved us, you’d quit.”
Say: “I know you love us, and I want to see you safe and healthy. How can I help you take the next step?”
Instead of: “You always mess up.”
Say: “I’ve seen you get through tough times before. I believe you can make changes again.”
Using calm, supportive language reduces shame and keeps the door open for future conversations about harm reduction or treatment.
Takeaways for Families
Meth affects more than mood and energy — it also changes the way people approach choices. Add in the challenge of withdrawal, and it becomes clear why quitting is not simply a matter of “willpower.”
Families can play a powerful role by providing compassion, structure, and encouragement. Whether through harm reduction or treatment, every step forward matters. Recovery is possible, and support from loved ones makes the journey easier.
Remember, our helpline specialists offer free and confidential support in English and Spanish. They can listen to your concerns, craft a plan of action and point you to helpful resources, so please, don’t hesitate to reach out.