Addiction does not discriminate and can happen to anyone. The risk of a person becoming addicted depends on the drug used, the duration of use, family history, genetics, and mental health. Crack cocaine, also known as crack, is a very addictive substance that is smoked, which causes immediate pleasurable feelings.
A person can become addicted to crack after one use. People who use crack often become engaged in risky, dangerous, and reckless behavior. Crack cocaine use can lead to severe health complications and death. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, (2013), “The effects are quick to be felt, peak quickly, and then end after only 2-20 minutes. Because the high is so short-lived, users often abuse crack in a binges. The binge and crash cycle of use adds to the risk of tolerance, dependence, and addiction.”
When a person is addicted to crack, he or she will experience changes in their physical health, mental health, and behavior. Physical signs of crack addiction include dilated pupils, weight loss, lack of appetite, and deterioration in physical appearance. Behavioral symptoms include lack of interest in activities, a decline in motivation, financial problems, and changes in relationships.
Some psychological signs can occur, such as irritability, aggression, mood changes, and paranoia just to name a few. Crack addiction can lead to financial complications, job loss, personal relationship issues, family problems, and even incarceration.
Behavioral therapies can be used to treat crack addiction. Some offer incentives to reward people for their drug abstinence. For example, the person suffering from addiction receives some type of reward for drug-free tests and reaches goals set by treatment professionals. The incentives are motivational and might include points that accumulate over a short time for a reward.
Other therapies help the patient to recognize potential triggers such as people associated with his or her drug use and places where it was used. Treatment can be tailored to each person’s unique individual needs. Treatment specialists 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, deadly drug, but addiction is treatable. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, get help now. Addiction is isolating, but you are not alone. Get help today so you can enjoy a healthy, fulfilling, sober lifestyle in recovery.
Serenity Springs Recovery Center focuses on rejuvenating men’s holistic spirit for success in addiction recovery. Our unique dual-diagnosis treatment program with a 12-step completion model helps men change their lives inside and out. Our mission is to provide tools and support for every client’s seamless transition into a meaningful and fulfilling life in sobriety. For information, call (386) 423-4540
