Cocaine is a highly addictive drug made from the leaves of the coca plant. In powder form, it is usually snorted but can also be liquified to be injected. Crack is a more potent crystallized form of cocaine that is smoked. A stimulant, cocaine impacts the central nervous system (CNS) by blocking norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin transporters, causing a build-up of these neurotransmitters in the brain’s pleasure centers. This build-up produces feelings of euphoria that fuel the cycle of addiction. Cocaine addiction and mental health disorders like anxiety often go hand-in-hand, leading to the need for dual diagnosis treatment.
At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we utilize evidence-based and holistic treatments to help our clients overcome co-occurring disorders. We offer multiple levels of care to meet your treatment needs. When you are ready, we are here to help. Learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment options by calling 833.551.2304.
Understanding the Connection Between Anxiety and Drug Abuse
Mental health disorders like anxiety have a complex relationship with drug and alcohol abuse. While we cannot say that one causes the other, we can say that they are deeply intertwined and that each exacerbates the symptoms of the other. Historically, the belief was that if you treated the substance use disorder, the mental health disorder would dissipate, and vice versa. Today we know that dual diagnosis treatment – treating both conditions simultaneously – is essential to effective treatment that results in long-term recovery.
Some of the reasons anxiety may trigger drug abuse or vice versa include:
- Self-medicating–One of the most prevalent theories about anxiety and drug abuse is that those suffering from anxiety turn to drug and alcohol use for relief from their symptoms.
- Genetic predisposition–There is evidence that anxiety and substance abuse have a genetic component in families where these conditions are common.
- Biochemical factors–Both anxiety disorders and substance use disorders are related to chemical imbalances in the brain.
- Withdrawal symptoms–The other side of self-medicating to cope with anxiety is that withdrawal symptoms cause anxiety symptoms, including nervousness, agitation, sleeplessness, and obsessive fears.
Stimulants, in general, are known to exacerbate anxiety. It is no wonder, then, that cocaine abuse would not only cause anxiety but exacerbate it in those who already have or are predisposed to it.
Recognizing the Need for Cocaine Treatment
Addiction destroys lives. Many addicted to cocaine know they are but cannot quit independently, despite their desire to stop. Others may be in denial about their addiction or be truly unaware, especially if they have not yet faced significant consequences. Answering yes to the following questions can indicate that you need dual diagnosis treatment:
- Do you need cocaine to feel happy, positive, or social?
- Have friends or family raised concerns about your cocaine use?
- Do you lie about how often or how much you use cocaine?
- Has your cocaine use caused financial or legal issues?
- Does your cocaine use interfere with your performance in school or at work?
- Do you neglect your responsibilities because of your cocaine use?
- Have you engaged in risky behavior to get cocaine or while using cocaine?
If you are abusing or addicted to cocaine, your physical, emotional, spiritual, and psychological well-being are all in need of healing. Dual Diagnosis treatment can provide the comprehensive care you need to recapture the life you deserve to live.
Discover the Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Gulf Breeze Recovery
Cocaine addiction not only undermines your ability to lead your best life but exacerbates mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we understand the complex connections between mental health and substance use disorders and how to treat them simultaneously.
Through our integrated approach of utilizing the most current evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities, we offer a safe, welcoming environment away from the stressors of daily life, where you can focus entirely on your recovery. Call 833.551.2304 to learn more about all of your treatment options at Gulf Breeze Recovery.