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. If you or someone you love uses cocaine, it’s essential to look out for cocaine abuse symptoms.
While individuals may only use this substance occasionally, 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 a suitable substance abuse treatment to help individuals heal and recover from addiction. If you require substance abuse treatment near me, contact us at 866.238.3154 for Santé Center for Healing’s programs.
Typical Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
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.
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. They want 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” or periods of intermittent cycles of repeated dosing. 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
- Financial problems
- Weight loss
If you or your loved one are experiencing cocaine abuse symptoms, it is vital to seek help. There are both physical and mental symptoms of cocaine abuse.
Look for Physical and Mental Symptoms of Cocaine Abuse
There are also physical cocaine abuse symptoms. White powder around the nostrils is an obvious 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. Paranoia is a symptom of some mental illnesses or substances. Signs of paranoia include:
- Over-exaggerated suspiciousness or distrust of others
- Thoughts that one is being plotted against or persecuted
- Delusions
- Preoccupation with hidden motives
- Unwarranted fear and anxiety
If you detect any signs of cocaine use, it is essential to obtain help immediately. Cocaine has many long-term health detriments, including:
- Heart attack or stroke
- Loss of smell
- Respiratory failure
- High temperature
- Malnutrition
- Seizures
At Santé Center for Healing, our cocaine treatment programs are designed to help individuals heal and recover from cocaine addiction. Our compassionate staff works with clients to create a customized cocaine treatment plan that meets their needs.
Heal Cocaine Abuse Disorder with Santé Center for Healing
Addiction is a chronic illness that you most likely need help to manage. You or your loved one will need professional help. The process starts with detoxification. Medical experts help the individual to withdraw from cocaine safely.
If needed, pharmacological support ensures 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 they want to see if 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 to build 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 wait another day. It’s time to get help. At the Santé Center for Healing, therapists routinely work with people struggling with stimulant dependence. Call 866.238.3154 to find out more about the program.
