National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is an important observance on November 30. Methamphetamine, or ‘meth’ for short, is a potent central nervous system stimulant that negatively affects the lives of one out of six young Americans every day. This day was instituted by President George W. Bush in 2006 to help current users get the help they need and also educate the public about the adverse effects of this drug. This highly-addictive drug is well-known for creating a ruckus in people’s lives; therefore, on this awareness day, the aim is to provide education and help to those who need it the most.
History of National Methamphetamine Awareness Day
You may know it as ‘crystal meth’, or ‘meth’ for short, but either way, you have most likely heard about, used, or know someone who uses this very addictive drug. Methamphetamine is a drug that affects the lives of hundreds of thousands of people each year. The effects of this drug can lead to severe brain damage, or worse, death. That is why it is important to raise awareness about it to help those struggling to overcome their meth addiction. If you don’t already know, methamphetamine is a potent central nervous system stimulant that increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, causing an increase in alertness, energy, concentration, and an overall happier mood.These effects are what make this drug so addictive, however, overuse of meth can lead to seizures, psychosis, and violent behavior. Parent categories of methamphetamine were discovered by German scientists in the late 1880s but the drug itself was not synthesized until 1893, by Japanese chemist Nagai Nagayoshi. It began being mass-produced and marketed under different brands in the mid-1900s. One of those brands was Pervitin which was given to soldiers in World War II to increase alertness until its usage was cut down to doctors’ prescriptions only by 1941.After the war, the drug was majorly used to treat conditions such as obesity, depression, and A.D.H.D. However, it later became a recreational drug used to stay awake or for its euphoric and aphrodisiac qualities. After consistent abuse, the U.S. government made it illegal in 1971. National Methamphetamine Awareness Day was signed off in a proclamation by President George W. Bush in 2006, and November 30 became the annual day for its observance. It aims at reaching potential users with help and preventive methods, and also to increase overall public awareness of the deadly effects of the drug.
National Methamphetamine Awareness Day timeline
One of the parent drugs of meth, amphetamine, is synthesized by German chemist Lazăr Edeleanu to create phenylisopropylamine.
Methamphetamine is synthesized from ephedrine by Japanese chemist Nagai Nagayoshi.
Methamphetamine is commercialized under the brand name ‘Pervitin’ and given to soldiers during World War II.
The U.S. Government bans the use of meth and announces it as illegal.
National Methamphetamine Awareness Day FAQs
What are yaba tablets?
Yaba tablets are tablets that contain a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine, and are consumed orally.
What is Methamphetamine Hydrochloride?
Methamphetamine Hydrochloride is the hydrochloride salt form of methamphetamine with the same stimulating properties as methamphetamine.
What is the U.S. capital of meth?
The state with the highest cases of meth usage is Michigan, followed closely by New York.
How to Observe National Methamphetamine Awareness Day
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Spread awareness
The most important thing you can do on National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is to raise awareness of the ill effects of this harmful drug. Take to your social media and discuss the statistics, effects, signs, and symptoms of this drug — and also possible forms of rehabilitation for current users. Use the hashtag #MethAwarenessDay in your posts to gain more coverage.
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Volunteer at a rehab
There are several drug rehabs scattered all over the country, including your local neighborhood. Take some time out today to reach out to rehab and volunteer. Addicts face many stigmas, so today, you can make a difference in their lives by making them feel less alone.
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Learn the signs
To spot a meth user or addict, you will need to look for specific signs. Some of these signs include talkativeness, shaking hands, grinding teeth, itching, and paranoia, amongst many others. Take time out today to learn these signs and educate your loved ones so that they also become knowledgeable and can easily identify them. Knowing the signs means you are alert and can actively take action to help meth addicts in whatever way possible.
5 Important Facts About Methamphetamine You Need To Know
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It comes in different forms
Methamphetamine does not only come in crystal form but can also be powder or tablets.
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It is consumed in different ways
Meth can be taken in a variety of ways including smoking, snorting, swallowing, and injecting.
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Most production happens in Asia
Shan State in Asia is the world’s leading manufacturer of methamphetamine.
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It has many names
Meth goes by many names, some of which are blue, crystal, ice, meth, and speed.
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The statistics are staggering
There are over 12.3 million meth users in the world, over 500,000 of which are regular users.
Why National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is Important
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It raises awareness
National Methamphetamine Awareness Day has the major aim of raising awareness about the adverse effects of meth to its users, and also resources that could help. This helps educate current addicts on rehabilitation methods, and the general public on possible preventive methods.
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It provides support
Users and their families often suffer a lot of stigma due to the addiction to this drug. This day provides much-needed support to those affected directly or indirectly by the effects of this drug.
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It can save a life
This day is not only targeted at raising general awareness of this drug, but also providing rehabilitation methods for addicts as well. There are events held across the country on this date that could be of help to those in need, provided by related institutions and rehab centers. This can help bring people to initiate their rehabilitation journey and possibly save a life.
National Methamphetamine Awareness Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 30 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | November 30 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 30 | Saturday |
| 2025 | November 30 | Sunday |
| 2026 | November 30 | Monday |
