Addiction To Bath Salts is a growing concern for law enforcement and medical professionals. The drugs, also known as synthetic cathinones, cause dangerous psychotic side effects that can lead to overdose and even death. These synthetic stimulants have chemical structures similar to other commonly abused substances, such as Stimulants (Cocaine or Meth) and Hallucinogens (Ecstasy). In addition to raising dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, bath salts can raise blood pressure and heart rate, and produce delusions and hallucinations. As more states ban the drug, producers create new versions with different chemical compounds. These new versions are called analogs and can be equally as potent as the previously banned bath salts.

It is difficult for someone suffering from Bath Salts addiction to admit they have a problem. They may feel as if the drug is controlling their life, and may have difficulty stopping their use. Their behavior can become more and more erratic, and they may steal money or other items to get the drugs. They may become violent and lash out at others. They might begin to neglect personal hygiene, wear the same clothes a lot and smell of body odor. Their sleep patterns may be off, and they may be sleeping for longer periods of time. Their appetite can also be affected, and they may lose weight or look anorexic or sickly. They may also experience nosebleeds, an irregular heart rate, or tremors. They may exhibit hallucinations and/or paranoia while using the drug, and they can often be very aggressive or violent while high.

If they are experiencing a psychotic reaction, they might have thoughts of hurting themselves or others, or they may attempt suicide. According to the journal Pharmacy Therapeutics, as many as 40% of people who seek emergency department treatment for a negative reaction to Bath Salts experience psychotic symptoms.

The first step of a bath salts addiction treatment program is detox, which removes all drugs from the body. This is done in a safe environment, under the supervision of trained and licensed medical staff. In most cases, this is done in a clinic or residential facility.

Once the drugs are out of the body, an individual can focus on treatment. They can then start to work with a licensed therapist to explore the underlying issues that led them to turn to drugs and alcohol. The therapist will teach them valuable, positive coping mechanisms that don’t involve turning to drugs or alcohol. They will also be taught how to cope with stress, triggers and other problems that might lead them to abuse bath salts in the future.

There are many forms of treatment available for individuals with a Bath Salts addiction. Most programs will use a combination of behavioral therapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, and Contingency Management. These strategies are effective in helping a person to stop abusing Bath Salts, and to learn healthier ways to deal with the stresses of life.