Knowing whether or not a loved one is suffering from cocaine abuse often means looking out for outward physical signs of addiction. However, if the person is determined enough, they can hide their symptoms from their loved ones for extended periods. Unfortunately, the longer their substance abuse goes unaddressed, the more likely they will suffer from a potentially fatal overdose.
While someone suffering from cocaine abuse may hide their physical symptoms from their loved ones, the potential psychological side effects may prove more challenging. Knowing what these signs include and how to correctly identify them can prove immensely beneficial for their recovery. Here are some tips on identifying the psychological side effects of cocaine abuse.
Does the Type of Cocaine Affect Symptoms?
Cocaine comes primarily in two distinct forms — powder and crack cocaine. Both are highly addictive drugs that cause similar symptoms but in varying degrees of strength. In most cases, crack cocaine has shown more intense side effects than the standard variety. Additionally, paranoia and violent behaviors can see significant jumps in people regularly abusing cocaine. No matter the type, knowing how to identify these symptoms becomes vital for getting them help from a substance abuse treatment center.
What Are Some of the Most Common Psychological Side Effects?
When people think of cocaine use, they often immediately think of the physical side effects of the drug. Staying up for hours on end and seemingly endless amounts of energy or nose bleeds have been ingrained in the public consciousness through media depictions of people using cocaine. However, these physical side effects aren’t the only most common ones. In addition, a wide range of psychological side effects can develop that are equally, if not more, common in people.Â
While no two people suffering from cocaine use are ever indeed the same, there are still some common psychological side effects you can watch out for. They can include the following symptoms:
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- Hallucinations
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Paranoia
Identifying Comorbidities
For someone suffering from cocaine abuse, the likelihood of developing comorbid psychological disorders is high. Frequent use of this illegal narcotic can affect countless patients, with the symptoms only worsening with more frequent usage. Comorbidities are often psychological disorders that develop through a person’s substance abuse and can dramatically affect the person’s mental well-being. These conditions can make it difficult for the person to trust others, including loved ones and even their therapist.Â
While the chances of developing psychosis or paranoia are relatively slim, the likelihood of anxiety, panic disorders, depression, or aggression problems remain. Identifying these side effects of cocaine use can prove indispensable in helping someone you love get the help they need before things worsen. Over the short, the emotional crash after coming down from the high can have devastating effects on their mental health. In some cases, the depressive thoughts can linger and potentially lead to suicidal thoughts and ideation.Â
Get the Help and Support You Need From Silver Pines Treatment Center
Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, finding a cocaine rehab program in Mahanoy City, PA, that can help with the psychological and physical side effects of substance use disorders is crucial. Our helpful and compassionate staff have helped countless people work through their symptoms and comorbid conditions and get them the help they need. So, if you or someone you love suffers from cocaine addiction, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our team today at 267.209.7313 to learn more about our treatment programs and admissions process.