The impact that cocaine use can have on the body is profound. While the physical effects and symptoms of cocaine use are well-documented and often the focus when discussing the detriments of the drug, cocaine can affect and be affected by mental health in several ways. Many cocaine users use it to self-medicate, unaware of the extent of the damage it is doing to their co-occurring condition.
Understanding the relationship between cocaine and mental health is vital for those seeking treatment for themselves or their loved ones. If cocaine has become a crisis in your life, we understand. At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we’ve created a substance abuse treatment plan that can meet all your needs, complete with one-on-one care and a comfortable living space. Call us today at 727-954-3908 or reach out online to learn how our program for cocaine rehab in Florida can make a difference in your life.
Why Cocaine Can’t Help You Self-Medicate
There has been a relentless climb in the number of Americans affected by mental health conditions. Millions struggle with disorders that severely impact how they go about their lives, and many turn to substances to self-medicate. For some, cocaine or a heavy opioid is the solution. For those suffering from depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, cocaine is a popular choice, given how drastically it turns around the negative emotions caused by depression with a sudden, long-lasting hit of euphoria.
Cocaine’s elating effects override the negative feelings of depression rather than reduce them. The results of cocaine only last for a matter of hours. Once the feeling and energy end, people are often subjected to a far worse emotional state than before. The tempting answer, then, is to use more cocaine. This cyclical, up-and-down nature of self-medicating fails to address the mental health problem and often introduces a substance use disorder.
The Long-Term Effects of Cocaine
It’s not just cocaine’s failings as self-medication that make it so psychologically damaging. The properties of cocaine as a drug can worsen existing mental health conditions. The feelings of euphoria that cocaine induces come at a cost, namely one of bodily deterioration and deteriorating health. Cocaine’s long-term symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Loss of smell
- Inflamed nasal cavity
- Damage to lungs
- Severe weight loss
- Increased risk of stroke, seizure
- Heart attack
Depending on the frequency of use, or the size of the dose, cocaine can induce paranoia, sleeplessness, panic attacks, and in some cases, psychosis. When different psychological and substance use disorders are present in an individual, it can cause serious complications. Treating one will necessitate treatment of the other. Cocaine addiction can seriously complicate what would have otherwise been a moderate psychological disorder into what’s known as a pair of co-occurring disorders.
Overcome Cocaine and Mental Health Disorders at Footprints Beachside Recovery
Mental health disorders are not often visible and sometimes taken too lightly. Recognizing the importance of addressing depression, anxiety, or any disorder can save the lives of people you hold dear. Don’t let cocaine become an obstacle in treating mental health. At Footprints Beachside Recovery, our mission is to help our patients and their families overcome cocaine and mental health struggles.
We want to make treatment more than just effective. We invest time and energy into our beautiful living space located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. For residents of Florida seeking to make a change in their life or that of their loved ones, reach out to Footprints Beachside Recovery today by calling 727-954-3908 or completing our secure online form. We’re here for you on your recovery journey, reach out today.
