Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant witch immediately affects the brain after introducing it to the body. The side effects of this drug are extremely pleasurable and give the user a false sense of euphoria. Like caffiene, cocaine makes the user feel awake, energized and reduces the feeling of hunger. Cocaine addicts will have a sense of well being and a great sense of power combined with restlessness and anxiety. When the effects of cocaine wear off the user will 'crash' and have the the pleasurable, euphoric feelings, turn in to a great feeling of depression. A Cocaine addiction is hard to over come because the depression can be overwhelming. If the user cannot over come the addiction he/she might go to great lengths, even if it means neglecting a job, school or loved ones, to get their fix.

Signs of cocaine abuse include; bloodshot eyes, change in appitite or sleep, sniffling or runny nose,a change in friends, or school grades, sleepy, sadness, loss of intrest in hobbys and others, and fequently needing money. Short-Term effects of cocaine while 'high'; The cocaine user will be energetic with enhanced senses and mental alertness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, increased temperature and dilated pupils. Long term effects of cocaine: irritability, mood swings, restless, paranoid, possible auditory hallucinations and the number one long-term effect is addiction to the substance itself.

Many treatments have been found to have a positive affect on treating a cocaine addiction, but it is important to match the treatment to the needs to the individual. The main idea is to get the cocaine abuser to stop the use of the drug and keep them positive throught the withdrawl. There is an option for the user to see a therapist but that might not always be the best choice. Another choice is contingency management, which uses a point system to gain positive rewards for staying cocaine free. Rewards which would promote healthy living and focus on constructive thinking. Joining a therapeutic community or rehab clinic has proven to be a great option. The residential programs focus on re-socialization, group therapy, and team work to overcome their porblems. It is very important no matter what the treatment is for cocaine addiction the most important aspect to overcoming the problem is giving/getting support. Visit OHS for more Add iction Resources