Shocking Signs of Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine is a stimulant that hooks its users by causing a dopamine glut in the brain. Abuse of the substance results in a variety of physical signs. For you, these changes might be gradual. For others, the shocking signs of cocaine abuse can worry them enough to ask you to seek help.

How Common is Cocaine Use Among Americans?

Most people think of cocaine as an 80s drug. However, it’s still very much in use. Government statistics suggest that 17 percent of those 26 and older have used cocaine at some point in their lives. The same demographic reported abusing crack cocaine to the tune of 4.3 percent.

What are the Physical Signs of Cocaine Abuse?

Abusing powder cocaine typically involves snorting the drug. Therapists at any good-quality cocaine addiction treatment center routinely see nosebleeds and septal perforations. Of course, there’s the weight loss that makes your clothes look like they’re hanging from you. Also, personal hygiene habits deteriorate.

People who smoke crack have additional signs of cocaine abuse. You might have burns on your fingers because you’re lighting the pipe. Your lips crack and also show burn marks. Because you bite down frequently on the pipe, your teeth break and chip.

What are the Emotional Sign of Cocaine Abuse?

Psychological abuse symptoms include depression in between uses. Because dopamine no longer releases normally, you go from a high to an extended low. You then begin to feel paranoid. You think people are talking about you or trying to take away your drugs.

Behavioral patterns become reckless and unpredictable. You go from good-natured kidding to violent outbursts. It’s also impossible to predict your behaviors, and even you can’t figure out why you’re feeling the way you do. It’s time to get professional help and quit cocaine abuse.

Detox and Rehab Offer Hope for Long-Term Recovery from Cocaine

Detoxification helps you deal with the initial withdrawal symptoms which are typically psychological in nature. Similarly, there will be some aggression. Therefore, medical supervision during detox is the safest option.

Choose a facility that offers rehab on the same campus. Of course, psychological dependency will be the most challenging aspect of quitting cocaine. Therapists customize a care protocol that speaks to your needs.

Examples of modalities include:

  • One-on-one therapy that enables you to talk through your cocaine abuse habits and reasons
  • Dual diagnosis treatment for depression and other mood disorders
  • Motivational enhancement therapy, which empowers you to take control of the recovery process
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on breaking up dysfunctional habits and thought patterns
  • Neurofeedback therapy, which is a modality that focuses on brain stimulation for healing

Don’t Wait Until Cocaine Abuse Leads to Side Effects

For loved ones, the signs of cocaine abuse in your life and personality are shocking. Don’t delay getting the help you need to return to a life of sobriety. The longer you wait, then the more devastating the results of the drug abuse will be. Call The Last Resort Recovery today to connect with an intake advisor who’ll answer your questions.