Expert: Crystal - 11/2/2008

Question
One of my closest friends who was never a user before just started working in a bar where it's known that there is a higher incidence of meth use among its staff. I started to notice strange things and changes about her. Since I can't see her frequently lately, it's only with text messages where we can communicate.

Lately, I found all of her text messages to me incoherent and I have to think very carefully and try to guess what she's trying to say. She was not like this before.

Today I went to her house and talked to her briefly.She looked fine and definitely not drunk or intoxicated but somehow looked drowsy. I hope she just lacked some sleep.

Or maybe she was on the withdrawal stage of meth use hence the look of drowsiness and the incoherent messages. After I left, she sent me another incoherent message. When I tried to clarify what she was trying to say and pointed out to her the incoherence because I already sensed something was not right, she didn't answer back.

My question is, is an incoherent communication a possible sign of being high, or being on the withdrawal stage, of meth use? Short of having her tested, are these observations, most especially the incoherent messages, enough basis for me to take further action?

I'd appreciate answers from people who have first hand experience of meth use. Thanks very much in advance.



A very worried friend.

Answer
Lito,

I can't answer this question because there are a number of things that could cause this. Maybe she is just overly tired because she is working hard, only she can answer this question. Maybe she took something, maybe she has had a mini stroke but I am not a doctor and I can't say that she is using something when I don't have enough information. Ask her. Take her to a doctor. Have you asked her if she is using Meth? There have been individuals who have tried it and it caused something bad but again I don't know.

Good luck.