Immense willpower is needed to stop using crack. The decision may be one of the most important a person can make. Learn what to expect when trying to quit crack and some of the best ways to get started.
Cold Turkey
People who have used crack for longer than a month will have a hard time stopping cold turkey. Withdrawal symptoms will likely pop up once the dose is lowered or a person quits altogether. The emergence of withdrawal symptoms means physical dependence on crack has begun and the body is used to presence of the drug. If the drug is stopped, the body triggers an abrupt chemical change with some unbearable side effects.
What Happens
Once a person stops using crack, withdrawal symptoms begin. During this time, the central nervous system reacts by kicking in symptoms of ‘extreme slow down’ and depression. Crack alters the brain chemistry in a way that modifies the normal production of neurotransmitters to release more dopamine than usual. This is what triggers a high. Quitting crack can make a person feel low but many people have pleasurable feelings due to decreased dopamine levels.
Side Effects
Cessation of crack accompanies predictable side effects. This includes:
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Suicidal feelings
The intensity of the side effects will depend on the level of dependence. Medical surveillance is important during this stage which usually peaks around day three of withdrawal.
Stop Taking Crack
It is not recommended to stop taking crack without medical supervision as it may increase risk of relapse. Highly addictive properties exist in crack which can provoke feelings of severe cravings and intense withdrawal. Medical help is typically needed including psychotherapy, emotional support and non-addictive medication to treat underlying disorders.
How to Quit
To stop taking crack, consult a medical professional (doctor, psychiatrist or other therapist) familiar with drug addiction. Seek help from others who have experience in addiction medicine. The body craves balance which is what brings on withdrawal symptoms. It is highly recommended a person seek medical assistance or medical advice while the body gets rid of toxins. Addressing the underlying layers which resulted in addiction is helpful. Support groups including 12-step support, SMART Recovery or Rational Recovery are available to provide peer-to-peer support. A life change is needed in order to get clean following addiction and treatment for crack addiction. Getting crack out of the system is just the beginning of a lifelong process of recovery. During the initial period, it will be imperative to change the way a person ‘does life’ in order to stay clean after detox. It will also be necessary to focus on ways to stay clean and drug free. It will be possible with the right attitude focused on positivity and a long life free of addiction.
The Villa helps individuals with crack addiction be free of the shackles. If you are trying to quit crack and need help, we can provide information to help guide you toward healing.