Addiction can happen to anyone. The chance of a person becoming addicted depends on the drug used, the duration of use, the person’s family history, genetics, and mental health. Crack cocaine, also known simply as crack, is a highly addictive drug that is smoked, which causes immediate euphoric effects. A person can become addicted to crack after just one use. People who use crack often become engaged in risky, dangerous, and reckless behavior.
Erik MacLaren, PhD wrote for DrugAbuse.com, “Crack, like all forms of cocaine, is an addictive drug. Smoking crack causes an immediate, intense high that wears off very quickly—usually within 10 to 15 minutes after the last use.” The intense and short-term high causes a person to use several times a day. Crack addiction causes changes in a person’s physical health, behavior, and mental health.
Physical signs of crack addiction include dilated pupils, weight loss, lack of appetite, and deterioration in physical appearance. Some behavioral symptoms are lack of interest in activities, a decline in motivation, financial problems, and changes in relationships. Some psychological signs are irritability, aggression, mood changes, and paranoia just to name a few. Crack addiction can cause financial difficulties, job loss, personal relationship issues, family problems, and even incarceration.
Behavioral therapies are used to treat crack addiction. Some therapies use incentives to reward people for crack abstinence. The addicted person receives some kind of reward for drug-free tests and achieves goals set by treatment professionals. For example, the incentives are motivational and might include points that accumulate over a short time for a reward.
Other therapies help the patient to recognize their triggers such as people who used crack with them and places where the crack was used. Treatment therapists can help identify a plan to help the patient cope, offer suggestions, and develop a plan for ongoing therapy after treatment ends.
Crack is a powerful drug, and crack addiction is treatable. Supportive family and friends can encourage their loved one through the recovery process and when treatment ends. There is hope for the ability to enjoy a substance-free life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, get help now. Cypress Lakes Lodge offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204