If you were to investigate a variety of illegal drugs on the market, you may be surprised to learn that many of these potent substances were not only approved for human consumption but were also legal at some point. For example, doctors (including a highly misled Sigmund Freud) proposed the medical benefits of cocaine, while babies consumed painkillers through over-the-counter cold medication. However, at the turn of the century, mankind got a little wiser about what we put in our mouths, to an extent. Here is a closer look at how crystal meth, one of the most dangerous synthetic substances on the planet, was once used during World War II.
Wash Those Worries Away
To understand the reputed “benefits” of crystal meth, you have to go back in time to World War II, when men were under a ton of stress on the battlefield. During wartime, you never knew if you were going to live to see another day. In the end, many young men were left apathetic, drained versions of their exuberant selves, but they found an escape thanks to a drug called Pervitin (aka crystal meth). In fact, one letter from 1940, written by a 22-year old soldier, details his request for more of this drug.
The Miracle Pill of Germany
Although Americans used this drug frequently, crystal meth gained the most favor with Germany, the other side of the playing field. In 1938, army physicist Otto Ranke constructed the first version of this stimulant to help pilots stay alert during aerial combat. A year later, in 1939, Ranke tested the meth on students, who suddenly performed to the extent of their abilities without falling asleep, a reputed miracle at the time.
From that historical moment, the Wehrmacht, Germany’s army during WWII, sent hordes of crystal meth to its foot soldiers. Eventually, these men referred to the stimulant as Panzerschokolade (tank chocolate). Newspapers were dubbing it the “miracle pill” within weeks.
So what was the outcome? Besides the obvious outcomes of addiction, soldiers suffered from fatal heart attacks and strokes. Not exactly a miracle pill after all.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
People from all around the world suffer from drug abuse and addiction every day, but, in a way, you can also find reprieve in the fact that hundreds of them are also finding ways to heal. Although the battle against illegal drugs continues to wage on in the United States, Australia, and other countries, you can join the thousands who rally together to find peace and to heal. With the right amount of determination and a little bit of love for yourself, anything is possible.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
