Cocaine Addiction

Unfortunately, the number of cocaine-related overdose deaths has been increasing in recent years, with 24,486 fatalities reported by the National Institute of Health in 2021 alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the cocaine addiction problem in America, with many people experiencing increased stress levels, social isolation, and economic instability that may contribute to drug use. Shockingly, a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that drug overdose deaths increased by nearly 30% in 2020, with cocaine being one of the main drivers of the increase. The pandemic has also made it challenging for people to access addiction treatment services, which can leave them feeling helpless and struggling to overcome their addiction. At Amethyst Recovery Center in Port St. Lucie, Florida, we provide cocaine addiction treatment and other resources to people suffering from drug addiction.

What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system and produces intense feelings of euphoria and energy. It is one of the most widely used illegal drugs in the world. It is derived from the leaves of the coca plant, which is native to South America. The use of cocaine as a recreational drug became widespread in the late 19th century, particularly in Europe and the United States. It was initially marketed as a cure-all for a variety of ailments, including fatigue, depression, and even addiction to other drugs. However, as its addictive properties became more apparent, its use became increasingly regulated, and it is now considered a highly illegal and dangerous drug.

How Cocaine is Ingested

Cocaine can be ingested in several ways, including snorting, smoking, or injecting. Regardless of the method of consumption, the drug quickly enters the bloodstream and produces a surge of dopamine in the brain, which is responsible for the intense feelings of pleasure and euphoria associated with cocaine use. However, this rush of dopamine is short-lived, and users often experience a crash or feelings of depression and anxiety shortly after the drug wears off.

According to the NSDUH, in 2020, an estimated 5.5 million people aged 12 or older reported current (past-month) cocaine use, and over 1.6 million people had a cocaine use disorder. While the opioid epidemic has received much attention in recent years, the impact of cocaine and crack addiction on people, families, and communities cannot be overlooked. Our government continues to work to combat drug trafficking and reduce demand for these dangerous drugs through prevention, treatment, and law enforcement efforts

Why is Cocaine Addictive?

The speed of addiction can vary from person to person, but in many cases, it can occur after just a few uses and have serious negative consequences on a person’s health and well-being. Research suggests that around 1 in 4 people who try cocaine will become addicted to it, and the risk of addiction increases with the frequency of use.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the risk of developing a cocaine use disorder within the first year of use is 5-6%, and this increases to 15-16% for those who continue to use for several years. The cycle of addiction to cocaine often begins with recreational use, typically in social settings, but can quickly progress to more frequent use as the individual’s body becomes tolerant to the drug’s effects. As the person continues to use cocaine, they may need larger amounts to achieve the same high, which can lead to financial and social problems.

Long-term cocaine use can have serious negative consequences on a person’s physical and mental health, including heart and respiratory problems, anxiety, depression, and addiction. Cocaine addiction can also lead to financial problems, legal issues, and strained relationships with friends, colleagues, and family.

Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of cocaine addiction is essential to getting help and support for those who may be struggling with this condition.

1. Chronic nosebleeds: Cocaine is often snorted, which can lead to damage to the nasal passages and chronic nosebleeds.
2. Decreased appetite: Cocaine can suppress appetite, leading to unhealthy weight loss and malnutrition.
3. Increased risk-taking behavior: Cocaine can increase impulsivity and decreased judgment, leading people to engage in risky behaviors like unprotected sex, driving under the influence, or taking dangerous doses of the drug.
4. Poor hygiene: Cocaine addiction can lead to neglect of personal hygiene and self-care, leading to poor grooming habits and an unkempt appearance.
5. Drug paraphernalia: Spoons, razor blades, plastic baggies, and other paraphernalia found in someone’s personal space or on their person.
6. Paranoia: Long-term cocaine use can lead to paranoid thinking, where a person becomes suspicious and distrustful of others, often believing that others are out to get them.
7. Excitability: A person may seem hyper, too energetic, and talkative while high on cocaine.
8. Hallucinations: In some cases, cocaine use can cause hallucinations, where a person sees, hears, or feels things that are not there.
9. Increased tolerance: Over time, the body can become accustomed to the effects of cocaine, requiring larger and more frequent doses to achieve the desired effects.
10. Withdrawal symptoms: When someone who is addicted to cocaine stops using, they may experience a range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, and intense cravings.
11. Financial problems: Supporting a cocaine habit can be expensive, and people may find themselves spending large amounts of money on drugs, neglecting their financial responsibilities, and resorting to illegal or risky behaviors to obtain drugs.
12. Changes in behavior: people with cocaine addiction may exhibit changes in behavior, such as increased secrecy, social isolation, mood swings, paranoia, and a lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy.
13. Physical symptoms: Cocaine can have a range of physical effects on the body, including rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and weight loss.
14. Legal issues: Cocaine use and possession are illegal in most countries, and people with addiction may find themselves facing legal issues related to drug use or distribution.

Everyone’s experience with addiction is different, and not everyone will exhibit all of these signs. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms and using cocaine, it may be a sign of addiction and it is essential to seek help and support.

The Effects of a Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that can have both short-term and long-term effects on the body and mind.

Too much of the drug in one’s system can lead to overdose where a person is in danger of dying. It is essential to seek help and support if you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine addiction.

Withdrawing from Cocaine

People who use cocaine regularly are at risk of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms when they stop using. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity depending on the level of dependence, the frequency of use, and the length of time a person has been using it. Common cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

1. Fatigue: Withdrawal can lead to feelings of extreme tiredness and exhaustion.
2. Depression and anxiety: Cocaine use can cause changes in brain chemistry, leading to feelings of depression and sadness when the drug is no longer present. Withdrawal can cause feelings of anxiety and restlessness.
3. Increased appetite: Cocaine use can suppress appetite, and withdrawal can lead to increased cravings and appetite.
4. Agitation: Withdrawal can lead to feelings of agitation and irritability.
5. Vivid dreams or nightmares: Withdrawal from cocaine can cause vivid dreams or nightmares.
6. Insomnia: Cocaine withdrawal can cause difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
7. Suicidal thoughts: In severe cases, withdrawal can lead to suicidal thoughts.
8. Paranoia: Withdrawal can cause feelings of paranoia and mistrust.
9. Psychosis: In rare cases, withdrawal from cocaine can lead to psychosis, characterized by hallucinations and delusions.
10. Muscle aches and pains: Cocaine withdrawal can cause muscle aches and pains.
11. Tremors: Withdrawal can lead to tremors or shaking.
12. Seizures: In severe cases, withdrawal from cocaine can lead to seizures.

It is critical to seek medical help when experiencing cocaine withdrawal symptoms, especially if the symptoms are severe or life-threatening.

How Amethyst Can Help You

Amethyst Recovery Center is a highly reputable cocaine addiction treatment facility that offers a comprehensive and individualized approach to helping individuals recover from cocaine addiction. With a range of evidence-based therapies, alternative and holistic treatments, and ongoing aftercare and support, the center provides the tools and resources individuals need to achieve lasting recovery and improve their overall well-being. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, the center’s addiction treatment team works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. Amethyst Recovery Center offers a range of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). Additionally, our cocaine addiction treatment center offers holistic therapies, such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy, which can help patients manage stress and anxiety, reduce cravings, and promote overall wellness.

Comprehensive Aftercare Program

Amethyst‘s comprehensive aftercare program provides ongoing counseling and support, as well as access to support groups and community resources, to help patients maintain their sobriety and continue to work towards their recovery goals after leaving the treatment center. Amethyst focuses on addressing co-occurring mental health disorders that may be contributing to a patient’s addiction. This may include conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By providing comprehensive treatment for both addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders, the center aims to help patients achieve lasting recovery and improved overall well-being. Amethyst Recovery Center provides a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for individuals in recovery. We’re dedicated to helping each patient achieve their recovery goals. Call us today to speak with an admission specialist.