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I’m On Crack

Addressing Substance Abuse: Understanding and Overcoming Crack Cocaine Dependency

Stating “I’m on crack” would seem to be a cry for information and help. Crack cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive substance. It is derived from powdered cocaine and is typically smoked, rapidly delivering the drug to the brain, inducing intense feelings of euphoria. However, its consequences can be devastating both on an individual and societal level. If you or someone you know is using crack cocaine, it’s important to recognize the severity of the situation and seek immediate help. In this essay, we will explore the effects of crack cocaine, discuss intervention strategies, and provide a guide to recovery.

Definition

  • Crack cocaine is a form of cocaine that has been processed to make a rock crystal, which can be smoked.
  • It is one of the most potent stimulants naturally derived from the coca plant, and is also one of the riskiest drugs available, largely because it is smoked rather than snorted or injected.
  • In 2019, the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that an estimated 5.5 million people aged 12 or older used cocaine in the past year, including about 778,000 who used crack.

Consequences

  • Crack cocaine affects the brain chemistry, leading to euphoria, supreme confidence, loss of appetite, insomnia, alertness, increased energy, a craving for more cocaine, and potential paranoia.
  • Long-term effects can include severe damage to the heart, liver and kidneys, severe respiratory problems, and serious mental health issues such as depression and psychosis.
  • The National Institute on Drug Abuse also states that cocaine overdose deaths in 2019 accounted for almost 16,000 of the approximately 70,630 overdose deaths that year.

Path to Recovery

Recovery from crack cocaine addiction is a challenging journey, but it is certainly possible, and help is readily available.

  • Acknowledgement: Recognizing the issue is the first step towards recovery. Substance use disorders, including crack cocaine use, are recognized as a mental health disorder.
  • Professional Help: Seek help from medical professionals or mental health experts. Detoxification is typically the first step, but it should be managed under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to potential severe withdrawal symptoms.
  • Rehabilitation Programs: According to SAMHSA, there are over 14,500 specialized substance abuse treatment facilities in the United States that provide a variety of care options, including counseling, behavioral therapy, medication, case management, and other types of services.
  • Aftercare: Building a drug-free life is a long-term commitment. Aftercare services like 12-step programs, sober living homes, and regular check-ins with counselors can support long-term sobriety.

It is critical to remember that you are not alone. Millions of people have sought help for substance use disorders and have rebuilt their lives. Reach out to a healthcare provider, counselor, or trusted individual in your life and take the first step towards recovery today.

We are here to help, send us a completely confidential request, here.

or contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).