Signs It’s Time for Cocaine Addiction Rehab
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, cocaine use is at a historic low. Despite this, officials still consider it a serious problem particularly among younger people. Fortunately, there are now a variety of treatment options. When someone is in the throes of addiction, it is difficult to judge when it is time for cocaine addiction rehab. How do they know when casual use has become abuse and addiction? There are physical, psychological, social, and legal signs that are all indicators that it might be time to get help for a cocaine addiction.
Types and uses of cocaine
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are two main types of cocaine. The first is a water-soluble salt, which is the kind that is typically powdered and snorted. The second type is the base cocaine often referred to as crack or crack cocaine, which manufacturers combine with chemicals like ammonia and baking soda for smoking. Each type is equally dangerous and addictive although many speculate that crack is more addictive and has more physical and psychological side effects. Also due to the impurities in it, crack cocaine is less expensive than its counterpart. Many people purchase crack instead of the more pure form because it is cheaper and more available.
Physical signs
As with any drug, there are physical signs of cocaine abuse. It is important to understand the physical reasons why people use cocaine. Most people know that cocaine produces:
- euphoria,
- excess energy,
- hyperactivity, and
- hallucinations.
When someone is abusing cocaine, they exhibit the signs of cocaine abuse as well as the signs of use. The physical signs of cocaine abuse are:
Cocaine abuse can cause anxiety, paranoia and nervousness.
- rapid heart rate and high blood pressure,
- frequent nosebleeds,
- difficulty concentrating or thinking,
- nervousness, anxiety, or paranoia,
- difficulty paying attention,
- physical tolerance to the drug,
- severe weight loss,
- track marks,
- chest pain, and
- insomnia.
A person exhibiting these physical symptoms is probably in need of some sort of drug treatment for their cocaine use. When the pleasure of doing the drug becomes painful and possibly dangerous, seeking a treatment facility is necessary.
Psychological signs
Many people find ways around the physical symptoms of cocaine addiction. There are medications someone can take to alleviate the symptoms but most people cannot disguise the psychological signs of cocaine abuse. These signs are:
- being without the drug for any length of time kicks off withdrawal symptoms such as:
o depression,
o lack of energy,
o irritability, and
o drug seeking behaviors.
- stopping the things that were previously enjoyable,
- depression,
- anxiety, and
- violent mood swings.
The psychological aspects of cocaine abuse can have devastating consequences on a person’s life. Many of these lead to social issues.
Social signs
The social signs of cocaine abuse are very difficult for friends, family, and coworkers as well as the user. When someone is using cocaine, they distance themselves from their usual crowd of friends and start socializing with other users or dealers. Family often becomes frustrated or upset by the user even if they do not know the true cause. If they discover the cocaine use, family and friends may encourage the user to seek treatment, further distancing the user from them. In cases of severe use, the addict may resort to threats or theft in order to get money for the drug.
Financial and Legal signs
Cocaine is extremely expensive and illegal. If an addict is arrested for possession, DUI, or trafficking it is probably time to seek treatment. The courts might even order a treatment program.
Because cocaine is expensive, there is a constant need for money to supply the habit. Most people cannot function well with a cocaine addiction and this leads to job loss. If an addict loses their job and can no longer afford to support his or her habit, they may resort to theft, trafficking, or prostitution to acquire their fix. If you have done any of these things, it is probably time to seek some form of treatment for your addiction.
Signs that a friend coworker or loved one needs treatment
Many users fail to see that there is a problem until it is too late. Sometimes it is up to friends and family to help the addict seek treatment. Some indications that a loved one or friend is addicted to cocaine are:
- hanging out with new friends who are into drug use,
- white powder on hard surfaces, books, and magazines,
- distancing themselves from family who might find out about the drug use,
- frequent absences and tardiness at work,
- frequent trips to the bathroom or other places out of sight,
- rolled up bills, pipes, and other paraphernalia, and
- drastic changes in personality.
When someone you love is exhibiting these signs, it is important to approach them carefully about the possibility of addiction. Many users deny that they use cocaine or other drugs and approaching them in the wrong way can drive them further from their support system.
Getting help
All of these are signs that it is time for cocaine addiction rehab. If you or someone you love is exhibiting the physical, social, psychological, financial, or legal signs of addiction, it is probably a good idea to either seek treatment for yourself or encourage the addict to do so. There are many options when it comes to cocaine addiction rehabilitation including inpatient and outpatient programs. Cocaine addiction in any form can destroy a person’s life. It is important to seek help before it is too late.