Facts About Cocaine and Its History

The history of cocaine is a long and complicated one that is entwined with numerous cultures and societies. Cocaine is a potent stimulant derived from the leaves of the coca plant. Coca leaves have been used by indigenous South American societies for their stimulant qualities for thousands of years. The active alkaloid cocaine wasn't identified and created until the late 19th century. After being praised for its anesthetic qualities and eventually making its way into tonics, elixirs, and even early soft drinks, this signaled the start of its widespread use.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cocaine's use as a component in many different products increased dramatically. It was acclaimed for its purported healing abilities and spread to become a significant part of American culture. It was well-known that important figures like Thomas Edison and Sigmund Freud had experimented with the substance. However, regulatory measures were implemented as soon as the negative effects and addictive nature of cocaine started to become increasingly apparent in the early 20th century. The Controlled Substances Act classified it as a Schedule II drug in the 1970s, indicating its significant potential for abuse and strict restrictions on its medical use.

The criminal market for cocaine grew over the ensuing decades, resulting in widespread addiction and related socioeconomic problems. Despite efforts to reduce its manufacture and distribution, there are still enormous amounts of cocaine trafficked each year, making it a serious global problem. Formulating successful policies and interventions to address the effects of cocaine abuse on society requires an understanding of the historical context and the development of attitudes toward the drug.

Signs of a Cocaine Addiction

Unfortunately, not everyone is ready and willing to admit that they have a cocaine problem, let alone that they require cocaine treatment. Even if they are experiencing backlash from their cocaine addiction, many are unable to stop. Sometimes, the first step to getting your loved one into a cocaine addiction treatment program is recognizing that there is a problem.

 Signs of cocaine abuse and addiction can include:

• Hyperactivity
• Dilated pupils
• Presence of cocaine paraphernalia
• Drastic weight loss
• Not sleeping
• Runny or bloody nose
• Overconfidence
• Mood swings
• Paranoia
• Financial problems
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Social isolation

Cocaine abuse, even just occasional recreational use, comes with many dangers. Along with the ever-present risk of overdosing, long-term use can lead to serious health problems such as cardiovascular problems, stroke, malnourishment, and cognitive problems. An addiction can also create secondary problems that bleed into almost every aspect of the user’s life. The best way to help someone overcome this substance abuse problem is by getting them help, like at our cocaine addiction treatment in Pompano, Florida.

Cocaine Addiction and Mental Health Treatment in Pompano

The goal of our Pompano Beach rehab center is to help patients find lasting relief from their addiction problems. Before treatment begins, every patient will undergo a full clinical assessment. This evaluation will look at the severity of the cocaine addiction, the patient’s medical history, factors that could have led to addiction, and any underlying mental health problems. From here, our trained professionals will use this information to create an individualized care plan that addresses the unique needs of the patient. This cocaine treatment plan will be altered frequently as the patient undergoes treatment and progresses through recovery.

While stopping cocaine use is imperative, it is only half the battle. Effective cocaine addiction treatment will break down the causes of the addiction and provide the patient with effective strategies for dealing with these triggers without turning to cocaine or other drugs. The exact cocaine addiction treatment methods used during treatment will depend on the individual, but programming may include family therapy, mindfulness, individual psychotherapy, group therapy meetings, and a relapse prevention program.

Recreational cocaine use can quickly spiral out of control. If you or someone you love is experimenting with this drug or has developed a full-blown addiction, get help. At Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano, we help people create a brighter future. Contact us to learn more about our Florida rehab services.