From Addiction to Freedom
Let’s take a few minutes to talk about the realities of cocaine. At Centered Recovery, we understand the struggles that come with cocaine addiction and how quickly it can cause problems for your health, well-being, and lifestyle. But there’s good news! Cocaine rehab at Centered Recovery has been a game-changer for many of our clients and it can be for you too! Seeking treatment at cocaine rehab is not just about quitting your substance – it’s about moving forward in your life with a newfound freedom. Getting the help you need can truly make all the difference in cultivating the future that you are seeking, and we are here to cover all the bases for you about cocaine and cocaine rehab.
What is Cocaine?
If you are reading this blog, you have probably heard of cocaine before, right? You probably are thinking of a white, powdery substance that people can easily become addicted to. We know that. But, what actually is cocaine and why is it so addictive?
Cocaine is a powerful and fast-acting stimulant drug. Simply put, cocaine produces the effects of being more energized and alert since it is a stimulant. Cocaine is derived from the coca plant and it creates an intense high when humans introduce it into their bodies.
When most people think of cocaine, they think of the powdered version of cocaine. This is the fine, powdery substance that you might see often in movies or television shows. Generally, this version of cocaine is consumed intranasally, but it can be used intravenously as well. Another version of cocaine is crack cocaine, which is a small crystal-like rock, which is usually smoked.
The Mind and Body on Cocaine
Regardless of how cocaine is used, its effects are strong and potentially devastating for the mind and body leading to cocaine addiction. Cocaine works by flooding your brain with dopamine, the chemical that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy. Cocaine is extremely short-lasting, which is why people who use cocaine need to use the substance to keep feeling its effects continuously. Seriously – the effects peak after only about 30 minutes. And when they do not or cannot continue their use, the crash is hard and fast. Crashes may look like irritability, anxiousness, and sometimes paranoia. That’s why it is so addictive! With the continued use of cocaine over time, the brain begins to rely on the substance to feel good and receive increased levels of dopamine, which changes the brain’s chemistry and reward system.
Not only does the mind change, but the body does too. Cocaine revs up the central nervous system within the body and puts extra strain on the heart to work overtime. Blood pressure and heart rate will increase as cocaine continues to be used, which puts a lot of stress on the cardiovascular system. This can lead to heart attacks and strokes, no matter how young or healthy you are.
Cocaine also suppresses appetite and hunger cues, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, making the body even weaker. Other issues that the body may have can include frequent nosebleeds, loss of smell, deviated septums, chronic sinus issues, as well as gastrointestinal issues like ulcers and lung damage. There’s a whole laundry list of negative impacts on the body.
The Rise of Cocaine Use
Throughout the years, cocaine has quickly gained popularity for its effects and glamorization in our society. Cocaine use reached its peak in the 1980s because it fit the mold of society’s image of power and success. Rather than being seen as an addictive substance, cocaine was seen as a symbol in popular movies like Scarface and commonly mentioned in music. Cocaine was being popularized by celebrities, musicians, and business executives. The idea of this substance filled people with excitement rather than fear or concern. But the glamour only lasts so long when it comes to cocaine. The cost of cocaine addiction and its effects led to downfalls in society, especially with crack cocaine. Neighborhoods were devastated by the negative effects of chronic cocaine use which took its toll on individuals and families. Don’t let the media fool you – cocaine in any form is a dangerous drug.
The Dangers of Cocaine
Dangers of cocaine present themselves in physical and mental ways, leading to a vicious cycle of abuse. Let’s run through a few of them together.
Risk of Dependence
It’s no secret that cocaine is incredibly addictive. Over time, the brain and body become dependent on the substance to have that rush of dopamine. It’s very common for people who use cocaine to go through binge periods of use. The fast-acting effects of cocaine leading to chronic use skyrocket the risk of addiction and dependence.
Brain, Heart, and Lung Damages
Cocaine wreaks havoc on the body’s organs. Neurological concerns like strokes and seizures are of high risk to cocaine users. Blood vessels can even pop within the brain, leading to fatalities. The heart takes a pounding with chronic cocaine use – and not in a good way! The risk of heart disease, respiratory failure, and tachycardia are always present. Crack cocaine can lead to a condition called crack lung, which involves heavy lung damage and breathing problems. The risks are no joke!
Sinus Problems
Cocaine that is injected through the nose can cause a host of sinus problems. Problems can be mild including nosebleeds and chronic runny nose. However, more severe issues may include loss of cartilage, nasal septum disruptions, or a collapsed nose.
Malnutrition
Weight loss and malnutrition are common with cocaine use due to its effects on appetite. This leads people to eat less and to lose the nutrients that their bodies need to function. With malnutrition, you may lower the defenses in your immune system, leading to more sickness and health concerns.
Decreasing Mental Health
Cocaine takes a toll on the mind, not just the body. Long-term use of cocaine can cause anxiety, depression, paranoia, and even psychosis in the most severe cases. The brain adapts to the drug, leading to these mental health consequences. Due to the impact, people who use cocaine chronically may be at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and attempts.
Overdose
The reality is that cocaine can be fatal because overdosing is possible. With the growing concern of fentanyl being laced inside a variety of drugs, you never really know what you may be putting in your body. Additionally, since cocaine has such a short-term effect, the risk of overdose is high since people need to continue to use it at such a rapid rate to receive the effects.
Social and Financial Strain
Cocaine use can damage relationships personally and professionally, as well as cause financial strain. The impacts on a person’s life and the things that they value are placed at risk when cocaine is involved.
Cocaine Rehab Therapies
When you decide to take the leap and enter cocaine rehab treatment, there a a variety of therapies that programs and counselors can use to help you reach your goals!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps to target negative thought patterns and behaviors that keep substance use reinforced in our lives. Ultimately, by learning new coping strategies and understanding our thinking patterns, we can become better equipped to handle cravings and urges.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI is a great tool for building motivation through internal drives for change, rather than external influences. Starting cocaine rehab might not mean you feel a true readiness to change yet, and that’s okay! Motivational interviewing is a great place to start in building your commitment to your recovery and reflecting on your goals for the future.
Group Therapy
As part of outpatient cocaine rehab, group therapy is a fundamental aspect of treatment. Immersive group therapy allows for support and connection in a safe environment with other individuals in recovery. Facilitators may lead groups for support, education, or creative expression to build awareness and understanding of your recovery.
Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention
Relapse prevention is a major part of cocaine rehab and mindfulness-based relapse prevention is just what Centered Recovery specializes in! Using mindfulness and other holistic therapies helps to promote overall wellness and strengthen your lifestyle that is supportive of recovery.
Support Groups
Community support groups are offered for free to find additional support. Whether you prefer 12-step groups like Cocaine Anonymous or non-12-step groups such as SMART Recovery, meetings are available in-person and online daily!
Outpatient Cocaine Rehab at Centered Recovery Programs
Centered Recovery Programs in Roswell, Georgia, is a mindfulness-based non-12-step outpatient drug and alcohol treatment program that may be the perfect fit for you! We offer our clients various levels of outpatient care, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient services. For clients who have attempted sobriety in the past and were unsuccessful, our program utilizes an entirely fresh approach. We believe that support, understanding, and compassion are key to helping clients find a lasting solution coming from within.
Our unique mindfulness-based program integrates common sense with cutting-edge neuroscience to illuminate how to find resilience even among the chaos, both from the past and in the future. We offer flexible scheduling with morning and evening availability, as well as in-person and virtual IOP options for those throughout the entire state of Georgia!
Contact Centered Recovery Programs for Cocaine Rehab Today
Let’s get you started on your personalized cocaine rehab outpatient treatment program! Contact Centered Recovery cocaine rehab drug and alcohol treatment center today and embark on your journey towards sobriety. Call us today at 800-556-2966 to speak with an admissions counselor!
Written by Jennifer Lopes, BS Psy
