Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction is a serious disease that affects millions of people across the nation. Not only can cocaine abuse cause harm to those who abuse it, but the effects often ripple throughout their life, causing pain for loved ones and friends.
As the abuse of this drug can often have severe and even deadly consequences for those struggling with cocaine addiction, it is important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition so that you can seek help as soon as possible. At Spokane Heights Detox, our mission is to help you recovery from cocaine addiction and regain control of your life. Our process is rooted in dignity and compassion for all. Reach out today and learn more about how a treatment center can help.
What Is Cocaine Addiction?
Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug often abused for its stimulating, euphoric effects. Due to its ability to uplift a person’s mood and increase their energy, many people see cocaine as a fun party drug or a pick-me-up to get them through a work shift. However, this drug can also have serious negative consequences for those who use it.
One of the biggest risks of cocaine abuse is, of course, developing dependence and addiction to the drug. Cocaine addiction is a serious condition characterized by the repeated use of cocaine despite this negatively affecting the person’s life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine abuse, please reach out for help today.
Why Is Cocaine Addictive?
Cocaine is a stimulant, which means it works by stimulating the brain’s pleasure and reward systems, releasing large amounts of dopamine into the person’s system and producing intense feelings of energy and euphoria.
This brief but intense high often keeps people coming back for more. As this drug is used more and more over time, they will begin to develop a dependence on cocaine, in which their brain and body are unable to function without the drug.
Once this dependence has formed, it will not take long for their substance abuse to turn into a full-blown addiction that can be hard to recover from without professional treatment. Fortunately, there is help available for those struggling with cocaine addiction, and recovery is possible with the right support.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction?
Cocaine addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on an individual’s life. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction so that you can seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with this addiction.
Some of the most common physical signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction include:
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose
- Persistent nosebleeds
- Excessive sweating
- Weight loss
- Sleeping issues
- Fluctuating appetite
- Increased blood pressure
- Fast heart rate
- Respiratory problems
- Chest pain
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Seizures
Common emotional and psychological signs of cocaine abuse include:
- Euphoria
- Manic energy
- Increased alertness
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Irritability
- Depression
Those addicted to cocaine may also display behavioral signs and symptoms, such as:
- Preoccupation with cocaine
- Compulsive cocaine use
- Tolerance to cocaine (needing to use more of the drug to achieve the same effect)
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using cocaine (including depression, anxiety, fatigue, and cravings)
- Engaging in risky or illegal behaviors to obtain cocaine
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Lying about cocaine use
- Isolating oneself from friends and family
- Financial problems due to cocaine use
Routine cocaine abuse can result in severe mental symptoms, such as psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions, and psychological dependence. Likewise, long-term cocaine abuse result in physical side effects such as weight loss, anemia, malnutrition, and life-threatening seizures.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, it is important to seek help immediately. Cocaine addiction is a treatable condition, but it is important to get professional help to overcome it.
Cocaine Addiction Statistics
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), an estimated 1.4 million people aged 12 and over reported having a cocaine use disorder in 2021. In that same year, approximately 24,486 died from a cocaine-related overdose.
Despite the significance of these numbers, many individuals struggling with cocaine abuse will not seek treatment. This is largely due to the stigma surrounding substance abuse, as many people do not realize that addiction is a disease and not a lack of moral integrity.
Fortunately, there has been an increase in efforts to spread awareness of how addiction affects those affected by this disease and the importance of seeking professional help in order to achieve long-term sobriety.
The Link Between Cocaine Abuse and
Mental Health Disorders
Unfortunately, substance abuse and mental health disorders often co-occur.
Many people who struggle with mental illness turn to illicit substances such as cocaine as a means of self-medicating their symptoms.
On the other hand, because cocaine is a highly addictive and dangerous substance, this drug can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. Regular cocaine use can lead to a variety of mental health complications, including:
- Anxiety and paranoia
Cocaine can cause intense anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks, which can be very distressing and can interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily lives.
- Psychosis
Cocaine can also cause psychosis, a condition that involves a loss of contact with reality. People with cocaine-induced psychosis may experience hallucinations, delusions, and bizarre behavior, as well as pose a danger to themselves and others.
- Mood disorders
Cocaine use can also worsen existing mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. People with mood disorders who use cocaine may experience more severe symptoms and have a harder time managing their illness.
- Cognitive impairment
Cocaine can also lead to cognitive impairment, including problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. These impairments can make it difficult to hold a job, maintain relationships, and live independently.
In addition to these mental health disorders, cocaine use can also lead to several other problems, including, of course, addiction, as well as a variety of health problems such as heart attack, stroke, seizures, and respiratory failure.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine use, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. There are many effective treatments available for cocaine addiction, and getting help can improve your overall well-being and quality of life.
Self-Assessment: Am I Addicted?
When Do You Need Cocaine Addiction Treatment?
Because the side effects of cocaine addiction are so severe, it is important to know how to recognize when your substance use has gotten out of control. Recognizing an addiction early on can help you get treatment as soon as possible and have the best chance at achieving long-term sobriety.
Some of the most significant signs and symptoms that is time to seek cocaine addiction treatment include:
- You use cocaine regularly, even when you know it is harmful to you.
- You have a strong craving for cocaine and feel unable to control your use.
- You spend a lot of time and money on cocaine.
- Your cocaine use is interfering with your work, school, or relationships.
- You have experienced negative consequences from your cocaine use, such as legal trouble, health problems, or financial problems.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional. Cocaine addiction is a treatable condition, and there are many effective treatments available.
How Long Is Cocaine Addiction Treatment?
How long the cocaine addiction treatment process will take can vary based on the person and their specific situation. For example, those with more severe addictions will likely need more intensive and long-term care, while individuals with more mild addictions may only need short-term treatment.
Most treatment programs will last anywhere from 30-90 days, although several treatment providers will offer step-down care that can last for several months and even years. This can involve participating in support groups, alumni programs, therapy, and more.
What is important to keep in mind is that this process should not be rushed. The addiction treatment process is a personal and often complex one, and your recovery journey will be a life-long commitment but one that is more than worth the effort.
Have any questions?
What Is Cocaine Addiction Treatment Like?
Cocaine addiction treatment typically involves a combination of detoxification, therapy, and aftercare support. Detoxification is the first step in treatment for many people and involves safely managing the withdrawal symptoms that occur when a person stops using cocaine. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can include fatigue, depression, anxiety, and cravings. The cocaine detox process is best done in a medical or professional treatment setting, where constant medical supervision and support can be provided.
Therapy is also an important part of treatment for cocaine addiction. Many different types of therapy can be helpful, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management (CM), and motivational interviewing (MI). Each of these forms of therapy can help recovering individuals better understand their substance abuse and learn healthier ways of managing their stress and other underlying contributors to their addiction.
Finally, aftercare support is essential for long-term recovery from cocaine addiction. This support can include sober living homes, 12-step programs, continued therapy, and various other services designed to help individuals maintain what they have learned in treatment.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment at
Royal Life Centers
Cocaine addiction is a serious and often devastating condition to deal with. At Royal Life Centers, we understand the need for comprehensive and effective care when recovering from a cocaine use disorder. Our comprehensive treatment approach incorporates both a holistic and evidence-based approach to the recovery process to make sure you are receiving the best care possible.
No matter what your recovery needs are, we are equipped to meet them and give you your best chance at achieving long-term sobriety. Our compassionate team is available to answer all of your treatment questions and get you started on the path to recovery today!
Are you looking for help with addiction? Let us support you on the path to lasting recovery
Cocaine Addiction Treatment in Washington
Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights offers comprehensive and compassionate care in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, providing a safe and supportive setting for the beginning stages of your recovery from cocaine addiction. As part of our mission to provide high-quality, holistic care to those struggling with addiction, Royal Life Centers treats clients like family and works with them to provide individualized and effective treatment.
It is never too early to start your recovery journey; reach out to us now to learn more about how our treatment approach can be a great fit for you. We are here to help you every step of the way! Reach out to us by filling out a secure contact form or calling us at 888-547-1586.
Looking for Cocaine Addiction Treatment Services?
If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, please reach out to us to find out more about how our cocaine detox services can help. We work with most private insurance policies and we have affordable self-pay rates if you do not have insurance. Give us a call and we will figure out the best treatment plan for you or your loved one.
Because We Care.
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If you or someone you know has a cocaine use disorder, we hope you’ll begin your journey with us at Royal Life Centers.
