We have all heard of the instant highs and the ecstatic rush that cocaine brings into our systems. However, one thing that many people overlook is the daunting aftermath – the painful reality of its withdrawal.
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system and can lead to addiction. When people who are dependent on cocaine suddenly stop using it, they immediately begin to experience uncomfortable symptoms known as cocaine withdrawal.
Recognizing the effects of its withdrawal is important to understanding the impact that cocaine addiction has on the body and mind and developing the proper treatment and support for people who struggle with addiction.
Here are the common signs of cocaine withdrawal that you should know.
Sign #1: Intense Craving
The most obvious sign of cocaine withdrawal is an increased urge to use the drug. People who have withdrawn from cocaine may find it difficult to ignore this craving. They will experience restlessness and won’t be able to concentrate on their regular activities until they satisfy this craving. They should seek professional help at treatment centers immediately.
Sign #2: Fatigue and Increased Appetite
When you stop using cocaine, your body will undergo a significant energy drop. You’ll then experience physical and mental tiredness, making it difficult to perform your daily tasks.
On the other hand, since your body no longer gets stimulation from the drug, it will be forced to compensate for the stimulation from food. You’ll find yourself having a high appetite for food. This change in appetite will lead to overeating, which, together with exhaustion, may create a cycle of physical and emotional strain on you.
Sign #3: Problems With Sleeping
Despite feeling tired, cocaine withdrawal causes sleep disturbance. You’ll find it difficult to fall asleep. You’ll also experience unpleasant dreams. This could be due to emotional discomfort, leading to restlessness and difficulty sleeping well.
However, in some cases, one may experience excessive sleeping, commonly known as hypersomnia. When this happens, the body compensates for fatigue caused by the withdrawal process. It could also be a coping strategy, helping people escape from the discomfort linked with the withdrawal symptoms.
Sign #4: Depression and Anxiety
When you stop using cocaine, the brain’s chemical balance will be disrupted. You’ll experience sadness and despair, which are signs of depression. As a result, your sense of positivity in life will reduce, and it’ll not be easy to find joy in anything other than cocaine.
You will also feel restless and nervous, a sign of anxiety. You may begin worrying about everything in life, including your ability to fully recover from cocaine addiction.
Depression and anxiety can severely affect an individual’s ability to manage daily tasks, reducing quality of life. This explains why it’s challenging to recognize the withdrawal symptoms of cocaine to provide the necessary support to persons recovering from addiction.
Sign #5: Increased Agitation and Irritability
It’s common to find people undergoing the cocaine withdrawal process easily agitated and irritated by others. Since the body is trying to adjust to the absence of the drug, many experience restlessness, which often leads to increased sensitivity and mood swings.
The physical discomfort and intense cravings for the drug that accompany withdrawal can further intensify these emotional responses, and this might make it challenging to maintain emotional equilibrium.
How to Treat Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
Considering the challenging nature of cocaine withdrawal, one must adopt a holistic approach to help them recover. Coping with these distressing signs of withdrawal needs a proactive stance and practical strategies tailored to individual needs. Here are some tips to overcome these withdrawal symptoms.
Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, it’s good to seek help from an addiction specialist. Since they understand every aspect of addiction, they can provide you with personalized support that will eventually enhance your recovery process.
Establish Healthy Routines
Developing a structured routine comprising regular exercise, enough sleep, and a balanced diet is vital. This will foster physical and mental health, enhancing your sense of control during withdrawal.
Relax
Don’t underestimate the power of relaxation techniques. Yoga and meditation can help you manage your stress levels. It would help you to maintain an emotional balance during your recovery journey.
Open Communication
Maintain open Communication with your family and friends. They can provide emotional support and a safe space to express your feelings. It will help reduce emotional burden and foster a supportive environment for your recovery process.
Drug addiction can take a person down a challenging path. When it comes to cocaine, the recovery journey is not always as smooth as many may think. It comes with different withdrawal symptoms that strain a person’s physical and emotional health. Individuals must recognize these signs and cultivate the proper coping techniques to overcome them.
