When individuals use drugs or alcohol even recreationally, they can develop a dependency or addiction. The more potent the substance and the more frequent the use, the greater the risk of addiction. One particular drug, cocaine, is frequently used in social settings. While individuals may only use this substance on occasion, cocaine is potent and quickly leads an individual into habit-forming behavior. Recognizing cocaine abuse symptoms in yourself and others is the first step in finding the right kind of substance abuse treatment needed to help individuals heal and recover from addiction.
Cocaine is a stimulant that offers a brief high. It gives the user a sudden burst of energy that quickly becomes addictive. Is your loved one falling victim to an addiction? Here is what you need to know about cocaine abuse symptoms and how to get help.
Typical Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
Cocaine abuse often happens behind closed doors. Your loved one might use the restroom at a club. When returning, their behavior is entirely different. Suddenly, there is an air of excitement. Someone who is typically a little quieter suddenly becomes talkative. The person’s energy level is then through the roof. Your loved one is all of a sudden not all that hungry. He or she wants to go out and do things.
But just as quickly, the energy wanes. Your loved one may then return to the restroom. Cocaine abuse typically happens in binges. The cycle may then repeat itself. Some common signs of cocaine use include:
- Dilated pupils
- Long periods of wakefulness
- Loss of appetite
- Overconfidence
- Over-excitement
- Paranoia
- Runny nose or frequent sniffles
- Mood swings
- Irritability
Look for Physical and Mental Signs
There are also physical cocaine abuse symptoms. White powder around the nostrils is a sure giveaway. However, a runny nose without any allergies or a cold should be a warning sign, too. Nosebleeds can occur suddenly.
Mentally, there will be signs as well. Your loved one may fall into a deep depression between cocaine binges. Agitation may also accompany the use of the drug. High energy levels switch places with exhaustion.
Some people also experience paranoia. They believe that everyone is out to get them. If you ask a question about cocaine addiction, your loved one may blow up. You’ve hit a nerve and come too close to the truth.
Addiction is a Disease That Needs Professional Help
Addiction is a chronic illness that you can’t shake on your own. Your loved one needs professional help. The process starts with detoxification. Medical experts help the individual to withdraw from cocaine safely.
If needed, there is pharmacological support to ensure a comfortable and pain-free experience. At this time, therapists work with your loved one to assess the person for the possibility of a dual diagnosis. This means that they want to see if maybe the individual has an underlying mental health disorder. Co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety are more common than you might think.
When it’s time to move to rehab, an intake counselor customizes a clinical care protocol. Examples of treatments include:
- Residential care that allows your loved one to take in the therapeutic atmosphere of the setting
- Family therapy that helps bring in loved ones for building bridges and re-establishing healthy communication opportunities
- Psychotherapy that uncovers triggers and offers solutions
- Experiential therapies that allow for peer interactions and the application of coping skills
- Group therapy sessions that combine with addiction education and relapse prevention strategy planning
If your loved one shows cocaine abuse symptoms, don’t waste another day. It’s time to get help. At the Santé Center for Healing, therapists routinely work with people who are struggling with stimulant dependence. Call 866.238.3154 to find out more about the program.
