How to Stop Using Cocaine

Life is full of trials and turmoil. It is during these times of uncertainty that lead many to find a drug of choice to avoid the reality of life. For many their drug of choice is cocaine. They find that using cocaine is a release from their pain, albeit, temporary. It relieves the pain that dwells in their deepest, darkest dungeon of their life. But the pain and hurt are still there when the cocaine is gone. A user generally thinks, "It is no big deal!" Choosing to believe that is merely their attempt to minimize and deflect attention away from the problem. My friend, cocaine is a big deal affecting millions in our world. It is a significant issue that affects the body, soul, and spirit of the user as well as those around them. The addict believes the lie that, "cocaine is a necessary stimulant for having a good time." Believing this lie leads to a life of bondage.

So, why does the addict do what they do? The reasons behind their destructive behavior are many. Perhaps the most common reason for using cocaine is as a coping mechanism in regards to the stressors' of life. All of us learn to handle hurtful and negative events in different ways. We feel "out of control" because of internal pain, frustration and anxiety. Our natural response is to alleviate the pain. Unfortunately, many people find temporary relief in cocaine.

Each user of cocaine knows exactly how the substance makes them feel. They also recognize that the feeling it generates each time is fairly consistent. However, very few addicts actually know why it makes them feel this way, much less how it happens. Cocaine is very effective at masking the real root problem in their life. Cocaine stimulates neurotransmitters (NRTs) in the addict's brain resulting in a false sense of enjoyment. This sense of pleasure is of course only temporary and carries a heavy price tag. This sense of enjoyment experienced by the addict is not reality. However, we have a very great Creator who made our body to secrete these NRTs and He has ways of doing so without the pain and misery of this illegal and destructive drug.

Withdrawal from cocaine is a very serious issue. As the addict continues in their addiction, the drug causes biological changes to occur in their brain. Because of these changes the addict experiences both psychological and physical symptoms as they withdraw. They can suffer from: agitation, depression, cravings, extreme fatigue, anxiety, decreased motivation, nausea and vomiting, tremors, irritability, muscle pain, disturbed sleep patterns and the like, realizing this list in not exhaustive. I have cared for many individuals going through withdrawal and without exception they describe their worst nightmare.

I am asked almost on a weekly basis by parents or other concerned loved ones, "What are some of the signs to suggest cocaine use?" I give them the following information, but I also reiterate to them that this is not an all inclusive list. Signs to suggest that someone is using cocaine are: runny nose, frequent sniffing, change in eating and sleeping habits, decrease in job and school performance, isolation, careless about personal appearance, amongst others.

Regardless of were the addict is in their struggle with this bondage to cocaine, we must compassionately share with them the good news that there is life after cocaine. In fact what they are experiencing know is existence not life; bondage not freedom. We need to inform them that many have found this life of freedom through the RU curriculum. They must be taught that the only effective way to change their addictive behavior and lead them into a life of freedom is to change their beliefs to which they have held on to for so long. They must reject the lie of cocaine addiction and embrace the Truth. They must accept the Truth and walk in that Truth.

About The Author:

Dr. George Crabb is an board certified internist, and internationally recognized addiction expert. He has written multiple self help books on addiction recovery, and medical topics. For more info on addiction recovery visit href"http://drgeorgecrabb.com">The Recovery Blog

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