Cocaine has been around since the mid-19th century when it was first discovered to have stimulant properties. Cocaine comes from the coca plant. Experts initially perceived its use as harmless and included in numerous over-the-counter remedies, such as a treatment for cholera and, ironically, for combat morphine addiction. Famously, until 1903, every bottle of Coca-Cola contained 9 mg of cocaine, available to children and adults alike with no restrictions. Now we understand the dangers of cocaine. We know how it interferes with the brain’s reward centers and can lead to addiction and severe physical and psychological consequences. Cocaine addiction treatment programs still have a vital place in the rehab landscape today.
Abuse of the drug hit a peak in the 1970s and 80s during the crack epidemic. However, cocaine is still very much in circulation, and people around the world abuse it. Approximately 38 million Americans report having used cocaine in their lifetimes, between 4.5 and 5 million Americans currently abuse cocaine, and about 6% of rehab center admissions are for cocaine use disorder.
At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC), we understand the grip that cocaine addiction can have on your life or that of someone you love. Reach out to one of our trained professionals today by calling 844.442.8673 to learn more about why cocaine addiction treatment is crucial.
What Is Cocaine Addiction?
People with a cocaine addiction crave the drug’s mental and physical effects. Feelings of euphoria, power, accomplishment, and almost grandiose levels of self-confidence appeal to many. Heightened physical energy, suppression of appetite, and the ability to power through extended periods of work or play are also reasons for cocaine’s allure.
Cocaine is rapidly metabolized and absorbed by the body but leaves the system quickly within 30 minutes. People addicted and who use cocaine chronically must frequently dose to maintain the high and increase their dosage over time as their exhausted brain requires more and more of the drug to feel its effects. Unfortunately, those characteristic, repeated binge cycles can seriously harm the heart and cardiovascular system. They can also lead to paranoia and delusions and potentially cause lasting damage to the nose, mouth, throat, and respiratory system.
The financial toll of cocaine addiction is considerable as well. It is one of the three most expensive addictions, along with oxycodone and heroin. Moderate cocaine addiction can cost $200 a day, or $73,000 per year. A serious cocaine habit can easily reach the cost of thousands of dollars a day. Cocaine shatters health, families, careers, and relationships. However, it also can utterly destroy someone’s financial security and send them into astronomical debt.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Over the last 50 years, research in cocaine addiction treatment modalities has shown addiction specialists what works. Some of the behavioral interventions that work well include:
- Motivational interviewing (helping clients accept hard truths and commit to recovery)
- Contingency management (based on a reward system to encourage positive choices and actions)
- Group therapy (providing support for and accountability to peers)
- Individual therapy (exploration of the personal fall-out of the person’s cocaine addiction, its roots, and goals for a post-rehab sober living)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (addressing the negative thought patterns that prevent change and constructive choices)
- Faith-based treatment (a proven and sustaining way to walk the path of recovery by tapping into a divine power)
To learn more about the treatment options available, contact PAATC.
Contact Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge Today
Cocaine is highly addictive and can be lethal. Treatment for addiction to this drug has been improving for decades. Reputable rehab centers like PAATC offer effective, evidence-based programs for anyone seeking sobriety. At PAATC, we consider our cocaine treatment program to be cutting edge with a range of options. Through this treatment, we address the multi-faceted needs of people struggling with cocaine addiction. We can be allies in your journey of recovery. Call 844.442.8673 or fill out our online form to find out more about our services.
