Recreational drugs sometimes have a reputation for inducing feelings of relaxation, hallucinations, and general feelings of lethargy. Cocaine is quite the opposite. Rather than causing the sort of feelings that would help one relax and mellow out, cocaine got its reputation for providing its users with what seems like an endless source of energy and excitement. In this respect, the appeal of cocaine is not hard to see. Sometimes, when energy is low, and work needs to be done, people look for a crutch in the form of coffee or other energy drinks. While cocaine may provide similar feelings to caffeine, they are likely to cause much more damage. As with most harmful drugs, however, cocaine can exact a heavy toll on those who use it consistently in large quantities. Discover the substance abuse treatment programs available at Insight Recovery by calling 828.826.1376.
What Is Cocaine Abuse?
To understand cocaine abuse, one must first understand the effects and signs of cocaine use. Cocaine is an incredibly powerful drug that reacts with the body’s central nervous system producing feelings of excitement, confidence, and high energy. Cocaine is, first and foremost, a stimulant that triggers the brain to produce high levels of dopamine, a chemical in the brain which is associated with happiness and pleasure. Other effects commonly associated with cocaine are:
- Overconfidence
- Talkativeness
- Alertness
- Excitement
- Anxiety
A person’s reaction to cocaine greatly depends on their mental state, physical health, and drug history. As a result, these effects can vary in intensity from person to person. These effects make cocaine highly addictive and incredibly difficult to stop using. This is because of cocaine’s effects on the brain. As usage increases, tolerance builds, meaning that the brain requires more and more of the drug to produce the same feelings. Users will not only develop a tolerance to cocaine but to dopamine itself. Unfortunately, the brain is simply incapable of producing such high levels of dopamine on its own, making it difficult for users to feel the effects of dopamine without using cocaine.
What Does Cocaine Rehab Look Like?
Because cocaine is an illegal substance, any cocaine use is considered cocaine abuse. Cocaine is highly addictive and can wreak havoc on the body if used consistently in excess. Luckily, with proper treatment, recovery is possible. Cocaine addiction treatment can take on many different forms depending on the patient and the facility but will likely include a detox period followed by therapy and counseling. Detox is typically the first step for cocaine addiction treatment. This is where the body relieves itself of toxic and addictive substances that have built up in the body over time. Once detox has commenced, patients will work with onsight staff to determine what form of therapy would be most conducive to their recovery. This could include group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and many others.
Find a Cocaine Addiction Treatment Program in Asheville, NC, at Insight Recovery NC
It can be incredibly hard to admit that help is needed when suffering from addiction. The path toward recovery can be long, and the changes that it brings can seem scary. But it is the only path forward when dealing with a drug as dangerous and life-threatening as cocaine. At Insight Recovery NC, we understand how difficult the process of recovery can be and how scary it can seem to those considering it. That is why we have dedicated our facility to making recovery as painless a process as possible. For more information on cocaine addiction recovery or to schedule an appointment today, contact us at 828.826.1376.