'How can I stop myself becoming addicted to cocaine?'
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Q: I've used cocaine at weekends for about a year and although I haven't personally experienced many bad side effects the 'Jekyll and Hyde' personality is becoming increasingly familiar amongst my friends and I've come into contact with many others who feel their lives have been destroyed by the drug. I don't want to change my circle of friends as many of them are very dear to me and they don't all take drugs but I'm worried that with cocaine becoming increasingly popular it's only a matter of time before I become seriously addicted. What should I do? Michelle, 19 |
our online advisors reply:
It sounds like quite a difficult and confusing situation for you right now. You are enjoying using cocaine and have not felt any of the 'bad' side effects as yet, but you are increasingly noticing your friends' habits and behaviour changing. It sounds like you want to stop using, but at the same time do not want to change your friends.
You have said in your e-mail that not all of your circle of friends take drugs and these people may be able to offer you the best possible support. Just because you make a decision to stop using drugs does not mean you have to change your friends although it may take a lot of willpower. If you make the decision to stop, tell all your friends. True friends will encourage you and will try not to put you in a position where drugs may be a temptation. You can prove to yourself you are still the same person without drugs.
Cocaine is not addictive in the same way as some other drugs. You don't get physical withdrawal symptoms when you stop, and you don't have to continually increase the dose to get the same effect. However, it is common for people to feel low and anxious when they stop using.
Cocaine is usually described as causing psychological dependence, which means somebody can't feel comfortable or relaxed anymore without the drug. Everybody is individual and so the length of time these cravings last for, after a person stops using cocaine, is different for everybody.
So, it is this feeling of needing cocaine that people who think they use it too much have to address. The best way of going about this is to gain support either from family, friends or an organisation. Talking through times of cravings and discussing your feelings as to why you feel you need cocaine is a good way to get through this. Do you have any close family or friends you could talk to and trust with your true feelings?
Perhaps it would be easier to talk to someone who does not know you. You can try Cocaine Anonymous. This is a helpline and website dedicated exclusively to cocaine information and supporting users. The number is 020 7284 1123 (10am-10pm) and the website is at www.cauk.org.uk.
Talk to Frank also offers support and advice on all aspect of drug use. Advisors are there to support and can also provide information about services in your local area. The call is free and confidential on 0800 77 66 00 (24 hours).
You might find it useful to read about drug services in the drug section of this website. The article includes information on the different services available to help people with drug problems.
I hope this helps.
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