Cocaine Addiction Counselling & Treatment in London
Cocaine addiction can destroy lives, careers, relationships and is a serious health risk
Long term effects of cocaine addiction use
Cocaine is one of the most widely used drugs throughout the world. It is found in two forms, powdered cocaine and crack cocaine. Crack cocaine, often referred to simply as crack, is typically smoked, while powdered cocaine may be used orally, inhaled, injected, or applied topically. Both forms have a very high risk of dependency, and over time users require increasing amounts to achieve the same effects. This escalation significantly raises the risk of overdose and severe health complications, often leading individuals to seek support for cocaine addiction.
In the United Kingdom, despite severe legal penalties, including up to life imprisonment for supply or up to seven years for possession, cocaine use remains widespread. It is estimated to be the second most commonly used drug after cannabis across all age groups. More than 800,000 individuals are believed to use cocaine, with the highest prevalence among those aged 16–19. Approximately 300,000 users fall between the ages of 16 and 24. Crack cocaine use is lower, with an estimated 181,000 users nationwide. Many of those affected later seek drug abuse recovery London services.
Cocaine can be highly addictive for some individuals after only a few uses. Research studies conducted in Germany indicate that certain genetic variants are found approximately 25% more frequently in individuals with cocaine addiction compared to those who use cocaine socially without developing dependency. This finding highlights why overcoming cocaine dependency can be particularly challenging for some people.
The Dependency Issue : Cocaine addiction
Cocaine addiction is highly reinforcing due to the way it alters brain chemistry and produces immediate effects, regardless of whether it is smoked, snorted, or injected. Once in the bloodstream, cocaine travels rapidly to the brain where it blocks the reabsorption of “feel-good” neurotransmitters. This chemical overload produces intense feelings of euphoria, confidence, energy, and a false sense of control.
As the brain attempts to restore balance, its natural chemistry becomes disrupted. The individual must use increasingly larger quantities to achieve the same effect, reinforcing the addictive cycle. Many people eventually require structured cocaine addiction treatment London or cocaine rehab London to break this pattern.
As the effects wear off, the “crash” becomes more severe. Common symptoms include depression, emotional despondency, exhaustion, anxiety, paranoia, and irritability. These withdrawal effects are often so distressing that the person feels compelled to use cocaine again to escape them. At this stage, cocaine counselling London and addiction counselling services London can be critical in preventing further deterioration.
Serious Side Effects
Beyond the damage to relationships, careers, and personal wellbeing, long-term cocaine use presents serious physical health risks. These include seizures, strokes, heart attacks, arrhythmias, lung and sinus damage, and significant gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or internal perforations. Crack cocaine use, in particular, may require specialised crack cocaine addiction therapy due to its rapid onset and intense dependency profile.
Admitting the presence of an addiction is the first and most important step toward recovery. With appropriate drug addiction therapy London, rehabilitation support, and a strong long-term recovery network, it is possible to successfully overcome cocaine addiction and rebuild a healthier, more stable life.
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