Written by:

Nuno Albuquerque – Former UKAT Counsellor

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani

Last Updated:

November 5th, 2024

Cocaine Addiction Treatment | Cocaine Rehab and Cocaine Detox

Cocaine rehab can be a complex, challenging journey, but it’s a journey you don’t have to embark on alone. Here at Recovery Lighthouse, we offer a comprehensive cocaine rehab programme designed to support, guide and provide you with the tools you need to build a brighter, healthier, drug-free future. Cocaine addiction is a conniving and all-encompassing illness, but with commitment, motivation and professional guidance, you can overcome it and begin to rebuild your life.

What is cocaine rehab?

Cocaine rehab is an all-inclusive treatment programme designed to assist those battling a dependence on cocaine. Rehab for cocaine is crucial for recovery because the all-encompassing nature of its effects, its rapid onset and severe cocaine withdrawal symptoms can all make it incredibly hard to quit without professional help.

The primary objectives of cocaine rehab include:

• Breaking the physical dependence on cocaine
• Managing the discomfort and potential risks of cocaine withdrawal symptoms
• Addressing the psychological and emotional roots of dependency
• Equipping you with essential life skills and coping mechanisms

The benefits of undertaking cocaine rehab extend beyond cessation of drug use. You will experience improved health, restored and strengthened relationships, enhanced self-esteem and increased productivity, fostering a profound sense of self-worth and purpose in life. All of these are available to you if you are ready to make a change.

Do I need cocaine rehab?

Recognising the need for help and seeking it is the first step towards cocaine recovery. However, this is often the most difficult part, especially if you’re struggling with denial about the gravity of your situation. To help overcome this denial, ask yourself the following questions that could point to your need for cocaine rehab:

• Are my relationships strained or damaged due to my cocaine use?
• Has my physical or mental health deteriorated because of cocaine?
• Have my attempts to quit using cocaine been unsuccessful?
• Is my job performance or educational attainment suffering due to cocaine use?
• Do I experience cocaine withdrawal symptoms or intense cravings when I stop using the drug?
• Have I neglected important areas of my life in order to use cocaine?

If you answered ‘yes’ to these questions, it’s time to consider getting professional help at a cocaine rehab centre.

Cocaine detox at Recovery Lighthouse

The first stage of rehab is to undergo cocaine detox. This involves the elimination of cocaine from your body, overseen by our team of medical professionals. This supervised cocaine detox is vital as it helps manage potential health risks and discomforts associated with withdrawal symptoms, paving the way for the subsequent phases of cocaine rehab.

Cocaine works by creating a build-up of certain neurotransmitters in the brain which are responsible for the high associated with the drug. Cocaine detox aims to restore the brain’s chemistry to its normal state by allowing it time to adjust to the absence of cocaine. This breaks your physical dependence on cocaine, allows neurotransmitter levels to reset and gives your brain and body the chance to start healing.

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms

As your body begins to adjust to the absence of cocaine, you may experience a range of cocaine withdrawal symptoms. These are your body’s response to the sudden discontinuation of the drug, and while they can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of the detox process. Common cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

• Agitation and restlessness: One of the first cocaine withdrawal symptoms you might experience is a sense of restlessness or agitation. This can present as unease, irritability, or an inability to relax or sit still.
• Depression and anxiety: The abrupt discontinuation of cocaine can often lead to feelings of sadness, depression and anxiety. These mood changes are due to the chemical imbalance in your brain as it adjusts to the absence of cocaine.
• Fatigue or extreme tiredness: As your body recuperates from the exertion of cocaine use, you may feel excessively tired or fatigued.
• Increased appetite: A common symptom of cocaine withdrawal is an increase in appetite. This happens as your body attempts to restore itself to a healthier state.
• Low energy: You may also notice a marked decrease in your energy levels and physical activity as you go through cocaine withdrawal.
• Unpleasant dreams: Vivid or distressing dreams or nightmares are also common during the cocaine withdrawal process.
• Difficulty concentrating: As your brain adjusts to the lack of cocaine, you may have trouble focusing or thinking clearly.
• Cravings for cocaine: Perhaps one of the most challenging cocaine withdrawal symptoms is an intense desire to use cocaine again. These cravings can occur randomly and may be triggered by certain situations or emotions.

Throughout your cocaine detox process at Recovery Lighthouse, our medical professionals will be available round the clock to manage these symptoms effectively and ensure your comfort and safety.

How long does cocaine withdrawal last?

Navigating the path to recovery involves understanding the stages your body and mind will go through during the cocaine withdrawal process. Cocaine withdrawal tends to follow a general timeline divided into several phases:

The crash phase…

This phase typically occurs within the first few hours to days following your last dose of cocaine. As the drug leaves your system, you may initially feel a strong crash or comedown. This phase is characterised by a rapid shift from the high experienced during cocaine use to a state of tiredness, anxiety and stress.

The craving phase…

As the crash phase subsides, usually after the first few days, you enter the craving phase. This phase can last approximately a week or two. During this period, cravings for cocaine intensify as your body continues to adjust to the absence of the drug. You may also experience ongoing mood disturbances, difficulty concentrating and continued fatigue. This phase can be especially challenging as the temptation to alleviate these feelings by returning to cocaine use can be strong.

The extinction phase…

Starting from the second week and extending up to several months, this phase usually sees a progressive reduction in the intensity and frequency of cocaine withdrawal symptoms. Although the worst is typically over by this point, some people may still experience occasional cravings or mood swings. However, these become less frequent and intense over time. During this phase, your body continues to heal, and you should start feeling more like yourself again.

Inpatient cocaine rehab at Recovery Lighthouse

Recovery Lighthouse’s inpatient rehab treatment programme is designed to provide you with a safe, structured and highly supportive recovery environment. Inpatient cocaine rehab offers several advantages, including:

Round-the-clock medical support…

During the initial stages of drug rehab, particularly the cocaine detox phase, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can be challenging and, in some cases, dangerous to manage alone. Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals is available 24/7 to monitor your condition, manage any complications and ensure you remain as comfortable and safe as possible throughout your recovery. This continuous support can be immensely reassuring during this difficult time.

Removal from triggers…

Cocaine use often involves triggers in your environment or daily routine that can prompt drug-seeking behaviour. In an inpatient cocaine rehab setting, you are removed from these triggers, helping reduce cravings and the risk of relapse. This gives you the opportunity to focus entirely on your recovery journey, without the temptations or distractions of everyday life.

A structured routine…

Inpatient cocaine rehab provides a structured daily routine, complete with therapy sessions, meal times, recreational activities and rest periods. This helps restore a sense of order and normalcy to your life, something that is often disrupted by cocaine dependency. It also keeps you engaged and focused, leaving little time for thoughts of cocaine use.

Peer support…

Group therapy sessions provide a platform to share experiences, exchange coping strategies and offer mutual support. This sense of community can foster understanding, reduce feelings of isolation and motivate you to remain committed to your cocaine recovery journey.

Access to a range of therapies…

Our comprehensive rehab treatment programme provides access to a wide range of proven therapies. From one-on-one therapy sessions to group therapy, from evidence-based practices from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to holistic therapies like yoga and mindfulness—these diverse therapies work together to address the multifaceted nature of your condition and enhance your chances of long-term sobriety.

Cocaine aftercare at Recovery Lighthouse

Once your time in cocaine rehab has come to an end, aftercare is crucial for making the transition from rehab back to regular life as smooth as possible. Recovery Lighthouse provides all clients with one year’s free weekly group therapy sessions, which will give you a chance to discuss challenges, get support during trying times and stay connected with other people in recovery.

Begin cocaine rehab today

At Recovery Lighthouse, we are dedicated to illuminating your path to a sober future. Our cocaine rehab programmes can help you put cocaine use behind you and get you started on your journey towards a healthier, happier life. Reach out to us today to find out more about cocaine rehab at Recovery Lighthouse.

Frequently asked questions