Cocaine Addiction: Everything You Need To Know

November 24, 2020

Over time and with an excessive use of cocaine, one can find themselves or a loved one facing a cocaine addiction. 

Any kind of substance abuse should be taken seriously, and taking the time to understand what cocaine is and what the effects are can do wonders for helping you to get a better idea of what you’re facing. So what is cocaine, what are the consequences of using it, and what can be done to overcome a cocaine addiction?

What Exactly is Cocaine?

Cocaine in its pure form is a powdery white substance. It comes from the coca plant, a plant that is native to South America. While it can take a number of forms and goes by many names, the intent when being used is always the same – to achieve a high. Cocaine sends incredibly high amounts of dopamine to the part of a person’s brain that controls pleasure, allowing the user to experience a high level of energy.

Effects of Using Cocaine

Short Term Effects

Some of the short term effects of cocaine usage include things like loss of appetite, pupil dilation, and nausea. The user will also experience sensations of nausea, severe anxiety that can sometimes lead to paranoia, and even convulsions or seizures. While some of these may not be noticeable at first, over time, it will become easier to see the signs of cocaine addiction by looking out for some of these short term effects.

Long Term Effects

When it comes to the long term effects of cocaine addiction, we are looking at more severe consequences, such as liver, kidney, and lung damage, extreme malnutrition and weight loss, and hallucinations. Someone who has become addicted to cocaine may also experience things like tooth decay, apathy, and delirium. 

How is Cocaine Addiction Treated?

Currently, the best treatment available for those battling this type of addiction is behavioral therapy. There are a number of different behavioral therapy options available, making it easy for those seeking help to find an option that works best for them. With opportunities ranging from staying in a treatment center to participating in a community-based recovery and support group, it’s wise to do some research to see what will be most beneficial for the individual seeking help with addiction recovery.

Showing Love and Support

Looking for some guidance on how to show love and support to someone who is trying to overcome an addiction to cocaine? It can be a challenge knowing what to do or say. Choose to focus on what you can do to build trust and rapport with one another – lend a listening ear and make it a point to show them that you respect their journey to recovery and that you also respect their privacy. Avoid any kind of criticism, or expressing an unrealistic expectation of immediate change.

Remember that this can be an arduous process for your loved one. There will be difficulties, but that doesn’t mean that it is impossible. Their journey can be made easier if they know that they have you to lean on, so do what you can to show your love and support in a constructive and caring way.

Steps Recovery Center Cares

At face value, an addiction to cocaine can be intimidating. However, when you understand what can be done to help those addicted to effectively recover, there is hope. Our cocaine addiction recovery services are available across the state of Utah. With offices in Draper, Payson, and St. George, and with highly trained staff with years of experience walking individuals through the recovery process, you’re sure to find yourself in good hands. Contact us today for more information.

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