Need to speed
Question
I came off speed two weeks ago because I couldn't sleep, even if I'd taken it in the morning. Now I've stopped using speed, I've started gaining a large amount of weight and hate it. Is there any way it's possible to sleep on speed. I've tried sleeping pills and they didn't help.
Answer
It sounds like you're finding it hard trying to get the right balance between using speed and staying healthy. You've done really well to stay away from the speed in order to get some sleep. What you are describing is a good example of how the side effects of speed can have a big influence on your day to day life.
Speed (also known as amphetamine) is a stimulant. These stimulate the way your body works. As a result you can't get to sleep and you lose your appetite, leading to weight loss.
It is interesting that you mentioned gaining weight, because one of the effects that people tend to like about speed is that it makes you lose weight. However it is dangerous to use speed as a way to lose weight because it happens so quickly and, as you have found, it is difficult to maintain.
To be honest, the best thing you can do to try to get better sleep is to try to stay off speed. You will find that, with time, your sleeping patterns and your weight will return to normal, especially if you try to focus on improving your health. Exercise is a great way to maintain your weight and improves your ability to sleep. Other natural remedies and alternative therapies could also help. Lavender is often used in aromatherapy to help people wind down and sleep. You might want to give massage or acupuncture a go, as they both aid relaxation and maintain your body weight. Herbal teas and relaxing music can also help you sleep.
You should be able to access more information about regaining normal sleep patterns through your local young people's substance misuse service. These confidential services are available in every part of the country and they can give you support about the effects of drugs and help you to improve your health. For information about your local service contact Frank. Frank can also give you advice and information on the phone or via email.
Question answered by Addaction
