You probably started using cocaine because it made you feel happy, powerful, intelligent or energetic. You may snort it, smoke it or take it intravenously by injection. Regardless of how you get cocaine into your body, you can become dangerously dependent on it and may require cocaine addiction rehab.
How Cocaine Works
Cocaine achieves its effect by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in your brain. This naturally occurring chemical regulates emotions such as euphoria and is responsible for sending out reward cues to the brain. For that reason, your body can become dependent upon and crave these high amounts of dopamine.
More frightening still, this downward spiral of ever-increasing cravings is often very difficult to stop on your own. Attempting to detox yourself or go cold turkey can actually be dangerous. Abruptly ceasing cocaine use can cause a serious crash or comedown that can be both physically and mentally devastating. People who have mental health issues are even more likely to have difficulties since paranoia and suicidal thoughts can be a major part of many people’s withdrawal symptoms. Instead of risking these dangers, you may be better off seeking professional cocaine addiction treatment.