The Four Winds Recovery Difference

Cocaine addiction requires specialized care that acknowledges the biological, psychological, and social factors driving substance use.

At Four Winds Recovery Center, our addiction treatment programs stand out through:

• Gender-Specific Programming: Tailored to address societal pressures and stigma men face, fostering a supportive brotherhood.

• Licensed Clinical Team: Experienced therapists and addiction specialists trained in trauma therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dual diagnosis care.

• Outpatient Flexibility: Structured programs (PHP, IOP, OP) allow men to maintain daily responsibilities while prioritizing recovery.

• Holistic Support: Anger management, family therapy, and life-skills training to address root causes of addiction.

• Continuum of Care: Seamless transition from intensive treatment to aftercare, ensuring long-term success. We offer ongoing support customized for every rehabilitation stage, from the first evaluation to aftercare.

The Impact of Cocaine Addiction on the Body

Cocaine addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by the compulsive use of cocaine despite harmful physical, psychological, and social consequences.

It is classified medically as a stimulant use disorder, reflecting the powerful effects cocaine has on the brain’s reward system and the body’s central nervous system.

In metro Atlanta, cocaine addiction remains a critical public health issue, with men disproportionately affected due to societal expectations of self-reliance.

What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from coca plant leaves that’s illegal in the United States. When someone uses cocaine, it increases dopamine levels in the brain, preventing this neurotransmitter from being recycled and causing it to build up in the brain’s nerve cells.

This flood of dopamine into the brain’s reward circuit creates intense euphoria but disrupts normal interaction between neurons.

With ongoing use, the brain adapts to the presence of cocaine, becoming less sensitive to its effects. Users then require larger doses or more frequent use to feel high or avoid withdrawal symptoms, setting the stage for addiction.

An estimated 14% of Americans aged 12 and older have used cocaine at some point in their lives, illustrating the widespread nature of this problem.

Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Physical indicators:

• Dilated pupils

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure

• Decreased appetite and weight loss

• Runny nose or frequent nosebleeds

• Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns

Behavioral changes:

• Increased energy followed by crashes

• Financial difficulties due to spending on cocaine

• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home

• Secretive behavior or lying about activities

• Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities and relationships

Psychological effects:

• Intense cravings for cocaine

• Anxiety, paranoia, or irritability

• Mood swings

• Depression during “crash” periods

• Potential psychosis with heavy use

Understanding Cocaine Withdrawal

Cocaine withdrawal is the process your body and mind go through when you stop or significantly reduce cocaine use after developing a dependence.

Unlike withdrawal from substances such as alcohol or opioids, cocaine withdrawal is primarily psychological, but it can still be intensely uncomfortable and, in some cases, dangerous.

Symptoms Cocaine Withdrawal

Cocaine withdrawal occurs because chronic cocaine use alters the brain’s chemistry, especially the dopamine system responsible for pleasure and motivation.

When cocaine use stops, the brain struggles to regain balance, leading to a range of withdrawal symptoms.

These symptoms can begin even if some cocaine remains in the bloodstream and are often most severe in people who have used large amounts or binged for extended periods.

Common symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include:

• Intense cravings for cocaine

• Fatigue and excessive sleep or insomnia

• Depressed mood and lack of pleasure (anhedonia)

• Anxiety and irritability

• Agitation and restlessness

• Increased appetite

• Vivid, unpleasant dreams or nightmares

• Slowed thinking and movement (psychomotor retardation)

• Muscle aches and general discomfort

• Suicidal thoughts in severe cases

Unlike withdrawal from some other drugs, cocaine withdrawal rarely causes visible physical symptoms like vomiting or tremors, but the psychological symptoms can be severe and long-lasting.

Timeline of Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Cocaine withdrawal typically unfolds in several phases, with the intensity and duration varying based on factors such as the amount used, frequency, duration of addiction, and individual health.

• Crash Phase (1–3 days): After the last use, individuals often experience a “crash” marked by exhaustion, low mood, and intense cravings. Sleep may be excessive or, paradoxically, insomnia may occur. Anxiety and irritability are common.

• Early Withdrawal (4–7 days): Symptoms intensify, with cravings, mood swings, and vivid dreams. Depression and dehydration can occur if self-care is neglected.

• Peak Withdrawal (1–2 weeks): Symptoms are at their worst, especially psychological ones like depression, anxiety, and cravings. Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle aches, and increased appetite may persist.

• Protracted Withdrawal (2–4 weeks+): While physical symptoms begin to subside, psychological symptoms—especially cravings and mood disturbances—can linger. Some individuals may experience these symptoms for months, especially after long-term heavy use.