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Cocaine use is common amongst younger people especially and is typically used recreationally on night outs or during events. However, cocaine is an addictive substance which can develop into a serious substance abuse problem. If you or somebody you know is using cocaine, it may not be obvious that an addiction has developed. Find out some of the most common signs of cocaine addiction here.

Is Cocaine Addictive?

Cocaine can be extremely addictive, as over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the presence of cocaine which causes a built-up tolerance. Once a tolerance to cocaine has developed, higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects.

Long term use of cocaine can also lead to dependence which causes individuals to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using cocaine. This further reinforces the cycle of addiction, making it very addictive.

Cocaine addiction can have a number of serious consequences for physical, mental, and social well-being, so it is crucial to seek help and support for recovery and know how to spot the signs of cocaine addiction early on.

Find out more about cocaine addiction below.

Spotting the Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Spotting the signs of a cocaine addiction can be difficult, particularly in yourself. Cocaine use may begin casually in social situations and may not result in an addiction in some people.

However, if cocaine is consumed in large quantities for long periods of time, the chance of an addiction developing increases. This is because cocaine acts on the brain’s reward system and increases the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcement.

The surge in dopamine creates intense feelings of euphoria and energy, which can lead to repeated use of the drug to chase the pleasurable effects first experienced.

Some common signs of cocaine abuse include mood changes, signs of depression or anxiety, sweating, insomnia, using the drug at inappropriate times, losing interest in old hobbies, and a preoccupation with obtaining more coke.

See 6 of the most common signs of cocaine addiction:

6 Main Signs of Cocaine Addiction

Symptoms of cocaine addiction are varied, and it is important to be able to spot the signs in yourself or a loved one if you are concerned. From mental health changes to behaviour, see the 6 main signs below:

Change in Behaviour

Cocaine use can lead to neglect of responsibilities and is a common warning sign of cocaine abuse. Individuals addicted to cocaine may prioritise obtaining and using the drug over fulfilling their obligations at work, school, or home.

This behaviour can be seen in various ways, such as missing deadlines, skipping classes or work, neglecting household chores or financial responsibilities, or failing to fulfil commitments to family and friends.

The compulsive urge to seek and use cocaine can overshadow other aspects of life, leading to significant disruptions and consequences in personal and professional spheres.

Increased Tolerance

An increased tolerance to cocaine can be a sign of addiction, as it indicates that cocaine is being consumed regularly. Tolerance occurs when a person needs larger doses of a substance to achieve the desired effects that were previously experienced with lower doses.

In the case of cocaine, developing tolerance often indicates that the individual’s brain and body have adapted to the drug, requiring higher amounts to produce the same euphoric effects.

An increased requirement for a higher dosage is a common feature of addiction and can contribute to the cycle of drug-seeking behaviour as individuals chase the initial pleasurable effects of cocaine.

An increased tolerance to cocaine is a concerning indicator that may suggest the development of addiction and the need for intervention and support.

Mental Health Changes

While cocaine initially produces feelings of euphoria and increased confidence due to its stimulant effects, the comedown or withdrawal from the drug can result in negative psychological symptoms.

Individuals may experience depression, sadness, or low mood, as well as anxiety after cocaine use. This can cause a person to experience excessive worry, restlessness, or panic attacks.

Long term cocaine use can also disrupt the brain’s natural chemistry and contribute to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety even when not actively using the drug, making psychological changes a key sign of addiction.

These mental health symptoms can often co-occur with cocaine addiction and may worsen as the addiction progresses.

Withdrawal Symptoms

When individuals who are addicted to cocaine abruptly stop using the drug or significantly reduce their intake, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms as their body and brain adjust to the absence of the substance.

Common cocaine withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, increased appetite, vivid dreams or nightmares, slowed thinking, and intense cravings for cocaine.

These symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on factors such as the individual’s level of dependence, frequency and duration of cocaine use, and overall health.

Seeking professional medical and psychological support can help manage cocaine withdrawal symptoms and support the individual through the recovery process.

Cocaine Cravings

If you or someone you know experiences cravings for cocaine, it is very likely that a cocaine addiction exists.

Cravings can be triggered by various factors such as environmental cues, stress, or social situations associated with cocaine use.

Lack of Control

A loss of control over cocaine use can indicate an addiction, especially if a person cannot stop using it in certain situations or if issues arise as a result of cocaine use.

Lack of control is a defining characteristic of addiction and is often accompanied by compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and an inability to resist cravings or urges to use cocaine.

Help and Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

If you are struggling to overcome cocaine addiction or want help for a loved one, get in touch with our team today. We can help you find the best cocaine rehab treatment for your requirements and needs.

Phone us today on 0330 0414 845 or fill out our contact form for more details and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

Codeine is a type of pain relief that is prescribed by doctors to help with mild and moderate aches and pains as well as coughs. However, it also comes with a darker side and has commonly been described as a double-edged sword, as a result of its addictive properties.

Being aware of the addiction potential is key when taking codeine, and it’s important to be able to identify signs and symptoms of codeine addiction. Here, we reveal exactly that and explain everything you need to know about codeine, how it works and the challenging consequences associated with it.

What is Codeine?

Codeine comes from the same drugs as morphine and is officially classed as an opioid. Medical professionals most commonly prescribe it to help individuals to manage coughs and pains. It works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, which changes the body’s perception of pain and also reduces the urge to cough. The NHS recommends that codeine is only used for short-term pain relief. This is because prolonged and excessive use of this pain relief medication can result in tolerance, dependence and addiction.

In the UK, codeine is available over the counter in low-dose formulations as well as in combination with other painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol. Unfortunately, this means that some people are unaware of just how addictive these drugs can be – especially when individuals are self-medicating without the appropriate supervision of a medical team.

When prescribed by a medical professional and used as prescribed, codeine is a very safe drug. However, it does, unfortunately, have addictive properties, which is why individuals using it must be monitored and why so many people, unfortunately, abuse the substance.

Understanding Codeine Effects

Codeine and other opioids are known for their ability to reduce pain all around the body. When ingested, the codeine travels to the brain’s receptors. It works in the central nervous system, intercepting pain signals and bringing relief and a state of relaxation to the individual. However, because codeine is such a powerful substance, its effect extends beyond pain relief. It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel a sense of pleasure and contentment, which is another reason why some people abuse its usage.

Why Is Codeine Addictive?

The main reason that codeine is addictive is because of its potential to create a euphoric and pleasurable experience for users. After prolonged exposure to this, the brain begins to adapt and requires higher doses of codeine in order to feel the same happiness. This is what is called tolerance and often paves the way to codeine dependence – when the brain and body require the substance to operate normally – and addiction. Ultimately, when someone is addicted to codeine, they find themselves in a vicious cycle, constantly searching for the same pleasure while suffering from cravings and increasing doses.

Work is being done to regulate codeine, and over the years, measures have been put in place regarding products that contain codeine. This includes restricted pack sizes and stronger labelling, which highlights the risk of tolerance, dependence and addiction. However, codeine addiction in the UK is still a severe and dangerous problem for many.

Psychological and Physical Aspects of Codeine Addiction

Just like other addictions, codeine addiction presents itself in several ways, including both physical and psychological symptoms. The initial pain relief can cause individuals to feel happy, content and euphoric, providing mental relief from pain or emotional distress.

At the same time, the body and brain can begin to rely on codeine in order to operate normally. This can result in cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which come with their own set of symptoms. Some of the most common side effects associated with codeine withdrawal include sickness, mood swings, sweating, agitation and anxiety. While challenging to deal with, these symptoms often lead to individuals continuing to use codeine, which again restarts the cycle of codeine addiction.

Risks and Consequences of Codeine Addiction

Similar to other addictions, the risks and consequences of codeine addiction vary and also extend far beyond physical symptoms.

Individuals addicted to codeine are more likely to suffer from serious health conditions, including exasperated mental health issues, organ damage and respiratory depression. Weight loss, mood swings and changes in behaviour can also occur. Not to mention the fact that addiction can have hugely damaging effects on finances, careers and relationships. Worst of all, as with any addiction, there is a risk of overdose, which can have fatal consequences.

Prevention and Treatment of Codeine Addiction

Prevention first begins with responsible codeine use. You should only take codeine if prescribed by a doctor, and be sure to follow the prescribed doses and duration. This can help to reduce the risk of codeine addiction. If you are concerned about addiction, then looking for non-opioid alternatives to pain relief may be a better option for you. Speaking to your doctor about any concerns you have is essential to ensure the safe and proper use of codeine.

Don’t forget, if you are struggling with a codeine addiction or are worried about your codeine usage, there is help out there. From community support groups, online resources, professional therapy and medically supervised detoxification, there are a variety of treatment methods available that could help you turn your back on codeine for good.

Get Support For Codeine Addiction Today

If you are worried about your codeine use or a loved one’s, then just know there is help out there.

Recovery is a journey and you don’t have to do it alone, however you’re affected by addiction. Understanding how powerful codeine is and being aware of the signs and symptoms of codeine addiction is the first step in using this pain relief medication more safely. But if you have any concerns or questions about opioid addiction, don’t hesitate to get in touch, as doing so could help you access the treatment and advice you need.

Watching a partner or family member suffer with their addiction, day in day out, can be an extremely tough time. No matter how many comments you make about their unusual behaviour or attempts to stop their substance use, it can be difficult to persuade an addict that they have an addiction issue and require professional help. Staging an intervention is a vital part of a person’s recovery journey and if performed correctly, can convince your loved one to take steps in the right direction. We explain why an intervention is key for recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction and how you can stage a successful intervention.

What is an intervention?

An intervention is the first part of the recovery process and involves a planned meeting between family members or partners and the individual with addiction issues.

The main purpose of a staged intervention is to discuss their behaviour and how it a problem, how they can offer their support and how the individual can benefit from professional help.

The meeting is referred to as ‘intervening’ as it to prevent the individual’s drug or alcohol habit from becoming worse before it’s too late. An intervention is usually performed as a last resort for stopping a loved one’s substance misuse to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Why is an intervention important for recovery?

An intervention is a vital part of the recovery process as it allows an individual to avoid the denial of their addiction and take construction criticism from people close to them.

It is common for people with a drug or alcohol addiction to deny that they have an addiction issue. This is usually the case as addicts don’t want to take any responsibility for their substance misuse or they feel a sense of shame that they don’t want to come to terms with.

Speaking to a family member about their issues in everyday situations can be looked over or forgotten about, especially if they are in brief or one-on-one environments where an individual is able to excuse their behaviour.

An intervention provides a safe space where a group of people can validate their shared opinions and experiences with the individual and provide constructive criticism that will help them take steps in the right direction for recovery.

Steps for a successful intervention

Speaking to your loved one during an intervention can be a difficult process, which can be made easier if you know what to do and what to say.

It’s important that you prepare the day, what you’re going to say and how you’re going to say it, as well as what the outcome will be.

Preparation for the intervention

To create a successful intervention for a loved one, it’s important to make sure that you are prepared beforehand.

Interventions can often be an emotional process, so it’s important that you plan ahead to avoid forgetting anything you want to say or approaching the situation the wrong way.

1. Make a plan – plan out important things that you want to say and make notes that you can refer back to during the intervention.
2. Speak to your family members or friends for support – speak to your family members or friends for support before the intervention. Ask them what they think and if they want to be at the meeting to speak.
3. Speak to a professional counsellor or therapist for assistance – speak to a professional counsellor or therapist to see if they have any advice or support about staging the intervention. Some may be able to sit in on the intervention to be a part of the process.
4. Find a rehabilitation centre and treatment programme – it can be helpful to identify a rehabilitation programme at a centre going in to the intervention, to mitigate any sort of discussion about rehabilitation and speed up the process after the intervention has completed.

During the Intervention

1. Use notes to plan out what you have to say – use the notes that you’ve planned before the intervention to remember key things that you want to say.
2. Let everyone at the intervention speak about their experiences – allow family members or friends to speak about their thoughts.
3. Reassure them that you’re on their side – reassure them that you’re not there to single them out and that you want the best for them.
4. Don’t be forceful – don’t talk to them like you’ve made the decision for them, as this will encourage resistance.
5. Ignore confrontation – interventions can spike anger or confrontation. Avoid retaliating at all costs and highlight that this behaviour is a contributing issue.

Prepare for the worst

Interventions aim to move towards getting the help that they need for their addiction issue; however, this isn’t always a guarantee.

It’s important to prepare for the worst outcome of the intervention to avoid disappointment or feeling like a failure if they don’t want to receive help. It’s common for individuals with addiction to refuse help during the first intervention processes as it is as scary for them as it is for you.

There’s plenty of evidence to support that long-term use of cocaine can cause significant symptoms physiologically, often impacting an individual’s key organs and leading to life-threatening conditions such as heart attack and stroke. As well as physiological impacts, cocaine use can develop psychological impacts to the brain and create behavioural changes in an individual’s personality. We discuss whether cocaine is a key cause of psychosis, common symptoms of psychosis and how it can be treated to prevent symptoms from worsening over time.

What is Psychosis?

Psychosis refers to a condition where an individual experiences reality differently to what is happening around them, often causing a delusional state where they can experience various symptoms such as hallucinations, or disorganised thoughts.

Psychosis is a serious condition that can alter an individuals’ brain chemistry and change their personality indefinitely as the condition worsens over time.

Can Cocaine Cause Drug-Induced Psychosis?

There have been studies that indicate that cocaine-induced psychosis is a type of mental illness that is worsened by extensive cocaine use.

According to the National Institute of Health statistics, psychosis such as hallucinations or delusions are reported by 29% to 52% of cocaine users and can be related to an imbalance of dopamine in the body.

What are the Symptoms of Cocaine Psychosis?

During cocaine-induced psychosis, individuals can experience a range of symptoms whilst in a delusional state including:

• fluctuating confusion
• sweating and blood pressure changes
• paranoia
• depression
• hallucinations
• agitated behaviour
• suspiciousness

Ways to Prevent Cocaine Psychosis Symptoms

There are a few ways in which withdrawal symptoms can be eased and prevent from worsening over time.

First and foremost, withdrawing from cocaine is the most effective method for reducing psychosis symptoms, However, to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms this must be done when supervised by medical professionals, Doing this without professional assistance can be difficult and lead to relapse and continuous drug use.

If symptoms persist following withdrawal from cocaine use, it is suggested that medication can be used to help reduce delirium such as haloperidol, a dopamine blocker.

You wake up on a Sunday morning, your head is hurting from drinking too much alcohol and again, you can’t remember what happened the night before. Does this sound like a regular occurrence to you? Blacking out after drinking alcohol is a major sign of excessive alcohol consumption and can be dangerous for both your body and your mind, causing serious long-term effects for your overall health and wellbeing.

What is the definition of a Blackout?

The phrase ‘blackout’ is used to refer to a temporary loss of memory, where an individual is unable to remember what happened over a period of time. It is usually mentioned when referring to alcohol activities and is caused as a result of over alcohol consumption.

How Long Does a Blackout Last?

The duration of alcohol blackouts can vary, depending on the individual and the amount of alcohol that they consumed. It can last from hours up to days, but this can depend on a number of factors affecting the duration.

What are the Causes of Blackouts?

It’s no secret that the one main cause of alcohol blackouts is…alcohol consumption, however there are other factors that can affect blackouts from occurring and the intensity or duration of the alcohol blackouts.

When a person drinks a certain amount of alcohol, the body is unable to store memories in the brain so the more a person drinks, then the longer their alcohol blackout is likely to last.

It’s common for individuals suffering with an alcohol addiction to experience blackouts and prolonged periods of memory loss due to the regular misuse of alcohol.

Factors affecting the cause of blackouts

Alcohol affects everyone differently, as we are all wired differently and have different tolerances to alcohol. Factors that can change the effects of alcohol are:

• The amount of alcohol consumed
• The weight of the individual
• The individual’s physiology
• How much the person has eaten that day

The Link Between Alcohol Addiction and Blackouts

It’s common for individuals suffering with an alcohol addiction to experience blackouts and prolonged periods of memory loss due to over consumption.

How to Prevent Blackouts from Happening

There are preventions that you can put in place to stop blackouts from occurring and putting yourself at risk of causing harm to your body. This includes:

• Monitoring how much alcohol you drink
• Eating a large meal before drinking
• Drinking water between alcoholic drinks
• Have a night off and give your body a rest from alcohol!

What are the Health Impacts of Blackouts?

Over consuming alcohol and causing temporary mental blackouts can impact an individual, causing effects on both their body and their mind including:

• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Delayed reactions
• Slurred speech

If experiencing regular blackouts, then there can be detrimental long-term effects. Alcohol misuse over months and years can cause damage to the frontal lobe of the brain, causing long term memory loss, and altering their ability to perform activities and decision making.