Illicit stimulants include cocaine, crack cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines and crystal meth. While these are different in makeup and the mode of intake varies, the interaction with the brain is similar. When these substances are introduced to the central nervous system they interact directly with the dopamine system, responsible for feelings of pleasure. The chemical interaction blocks open dopamine creating a rush and feeling of euphoria. It is this sensation that increases the addictiveness of stimulants. With extended use and abuse of these drugs the dopamine system becomes damaged and the only way for an individual to feel pleasure is through increased use of the drug. This in turn increases the risks and the struggles for that person.

Stimulants are fast acting. When a person ends their use it very quickly will be followed by a crash. This is accompanied with withdrawal symptoms like strong craving, fatigue, and lack of pleasure, sleepiness and feelings of paranoia. These things occur within 24 hours after stopping use. Other symptoms that are manifested when withdrawing from cocaine or meth include.

• Insomnia
• Discomfort
• Increased appetite
• Slowed activity
• Unpleasant dreams

The real concern when it comes to withdrawal to stimulants involves dysphoria, suicidal ideation, craving and depression. When someone ends their use the craving can be so intense that the only way to satisfy this is with increased abuse. Which sadly leads all too often to overdosing and greater health risks. The depressive and dysphoric problems occur during the initial phases of acute withdrawal and can last a week or more. Drug detoxification is critical to ensure that the individual does not hurt themselves or others during this time. The National Institute of Health considers cocaine withdrawal “as strong as other types of withdrawal, or even stronger.”

Our caring medical staff is available around-the-clock to assist you through the drug detoxification process. The withdrawal symptoms can be a little difficult to deal with on your own. We will work with you to ensure that you are as comfortable as you can be under the circumstances and that your immediate needs are met. When the detox process is completed, our staff will assist you with transitioning into one of our drug rehab facilities to continue with your addiction program. With such a high chance of relapsing after detox, immediate enrollment into a long-term program is recommended.

Stimulants tend to have a high comorbidity rate. Studies say that at least 50% of those that abuse stimulants are also dealing with another form of mental illness like depression or anxiety. Initially these things can be withdrawal symptoms, but dual diagnosis treatments can help to determine these concerns and provide appropriate medications to stabilize the central nervous system. Here at Cirque we are founded on a dual diagnosis treatment effort for our clients with an integrated program of mental health and addiction therapies.

A long-term effort is also recommended in treating stimulant addiction. Intensive craving for the drug lessens over time, but it can take weeks, even months. Needless to say relapse is very common. It is vital that some form of aftercare or long-term continuing care is followed with the conclusion of inpatient treatment. This should involve additional therapies and programs to assist with dual diagnosis. Another recommendation is involvement in a 12-step group like Cocaine Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous for continued support.

People can and do recover from meth and cocaine addiction. Even those who are deeply involved in the abuse of stimulants and other things like alcohol or opiates can turn their lives around. We are the facility to help you. If you or a loved one is in need of a program, we encourage you to start here. Give us a call at 1-800-582-0709 today. Learn more about what treatment and stimulant detox options you have available and get your life back!