In the past, people of all ages used cocaine because they believed it was safe for unregulated consumption. Cocaine, derived from the coca plant, could be found in over-the-counter medications, family remedies, and even the original Coca-Cola recipe. Eventually, all that changed. Medical professionals understood its highly addictive qualities and began to use it legally only as a pharmaceutical. It is still helpful as a vasoconstricting anesthetic with specific uses in hospitals.
Although cocaine was made illegal for public consumption, its availability did not wane. Powdered cocaine and crack cocaine, its derivative, are sold on the streets in most parts of the country. Six percent of rehab admissions are for cocaine use disorder, and we know that only one in ten people who need drug rehab will receive it. Don’t let yourself become a cocaine statistic. Reach out to Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge (PAATC) today to find out how we can help you with your recovery. Call 844.442.8673 or use our online form to speak to one of our experts.
Cocaine Addiction Facts
Cocaine interferes with the brain’s reward centers, flooding the system and bypassing the natural production of neurotransmitters. It does not take long for the brain to become dependent on cocaine to produce the chemicals that provide feelings of pleasure, well-being, and purpose.
Those who abuse cocaine or have a cocaine use disorder typically engage in a cycle of binging and recovery. Someone addicted to cocaine will do what it takes to avoid the painful but inevitable crash, which happens when the body and brain can no longer sustain the constant overload. Recovering from such a binge cycle can last for days, during which the sufferer experiences nearly unbearable cravings. The good news is that there are effective evidence-based treatments for cocaine addiction.
Three Benefits of Cocaine Addiction Treatment
There are numerous benefits to cocaine addiction treatment, all connected to well-being, health, and long-term sobriety. Three of the top reasons to seek treatment for a cocaine use disorder are below:
1. Understand Your Addiction
No one chooses to become physically and psychologically dependent on a drug, so when it happens, there is usually very little understanding of what is happening. For many people in the grip of an addiction to cocaine, their focus is continuously on their addiction. Satisfying it, recovering from binges, and drug-seeking become their sole focus. In drug rehab, you will learn about how addiction works, most importantly your specific addiction, and understand that no one is to blame. Addiction is a disease, so you require treatment and time to heal.
2. End Physical Dependence
Starting with medically supervised detox means that your body will safely rid itself of all remnants of cocaine. It is then that real recovery can begin, and you can focus on the other elements of rehab, including:
- Individual therapy
- Peer support groups
- Mindfulness practice
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
3. Develop Self-Awareness and New Habits
Learning about yourself allows you to determine whether you have underlying mental health issues like trauma or depression. You can also understand other aspects of your behavior, circumstances, and life history that impact your substance use and addiction. That understanding paves the way for creating new pathways, setting healthy goals, and forging new, life-sustaining habits.
Begin Treatment at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
Your recovery is our goal. If you are ready to have some conversations about your cocaine use, your goals for the future, and what your options are for cocaine addiction treatment, reach out today. Our evidence-based treatment for cocaine addiction includes proven modalities such as cognitive-behavioral and dialectic behavior therapy. These treatment options are available whether you choose inpatient or outpatient rehab. We offer faith-based treatment for those seeking the comfort of their Christian faith in recovery. Complete our online form or call 844.442.8673 today to speak to a staff member who can answer your questions.
