Highs and lows

Getting cranked up after a long holiday weekend is a job in itself. That boundless well of energy is runnin’ dry after days of recreation and parties. And therein lies the attractiveness of a stimulant—something that can get us quickly recharged and over the hump.

Given the nature of its accessibility, and despite its illegality, many people in California turn to methamphetamine to get up and going. They get the adrenaline-like rush followed by the feeling of energy and confidence. It’s like they’re in charge of the world, instead of the other way around. And who doesn’t want to feel up? For many it’s not about getting charged up for work, its simply the adventure of getting high with your friends. And then getting higher.

It’s more effective than mega-doses of vitamins and cheaper than cocaine. Clandestine manufacturers can produce an ounce of relatively pure meth with a few hundred dollars of supplies and some unsophisticated equipment (see “The Meth Makers,”). Much of the meth production is not coming from mega-labs but rather the kitchen labs where dealer/users can get what they need, plus some income. Our report on this speed culture is not meant to glorify drugs, but rather give it a realistic portrayal.

As all tweakers know, it’s the coming down that’s the bitch.

The occasional use turns into binges, and then the binges last longer. The paranoia creeps in and compulsive behaviors emerge. Frequent use fairly quickly evolves into addiction. And addiction has never been a positive for anyone trying to do well at work or in life in general.

But we’re not here to preach. That has never worked.