Q:
I am a 20 year female, & I have a problem but there probably isn't anyway to solve it besides letting time pass. Last May I started smoking crystal meth everyday until like a week before school started this year. I stopped cold turkey, and I slept for like a day or 2. I have smoked twice since I tried to stop. I feel a lot healthier now that I have pretty much quit, but I cannot wake up in the morning to go to my 8 am class. I just do not hear my alarm. The other day I slept until 4 pm. Is this just from the dope still...and if so how long will it take to get out of my system...because part of me just wants to start back on it so I can get out of bed and not sleep all day, but I know in the long run this is not good. I am 20 years old I should be able to get myself out of bed in the morning...and to my teacher I just look like a student who doesn't care and is irresponsible...well I guess I am irresponsible...but anyway how long do you think it takes to get back to normal?
A:
It can take up to a month or more to get back to a normal sleep cycle after regular stimulant use, so your current difficulty waking up in the morning is not unusual, and certainly is interfering with your ability to get to class on time.
The temptation to use stimulants will be very strong for some time, especially if you use intermittently. It is difficult to go drug free on your own without good support from other people who understand. If you are wanting to discuss this with our Alcohol and Drug Assessment Counselor at WWU, she may be a good support to you in this transition to a drug free lifestyle. She can be reached at 650-3643. If you are concerned about any medical problems related to your methamphetamine use (and there are many), then contact the Student Health Center for an appointment to evaluate that--650-3400.
Your goal of leaving methamphetamines behind you is the best choice for your long term health and well being. We can help you achieve that goal.
~The Doc
