Detox in South Florida | What Does Cocaine Do to Your Brain?

Last Updated: Sep 20th 2019

Reviewed by Brittany Polansky, MSW, LCSW

Detox in South Florida | What Does Cocaine Do to Your Brain?

You may be aware that cocaine causes harm to the brain. But, did you know cocaine actually causes brain cells to kill themselves and causes long-term damage to the brain? Below are just a few of the effects that cocaine has on your brain. So, If you or a loved one suffers from an addiction to cocaine, consider a detox in South Florida.

Detox in south florida that helps with cocaine addiction

Mood and Mental Health

Because cocaine disrupts the dopamine in the brain, it’s common for a cocaine user to experience permanent depression. Some other side effects include auditory hallucinations, paranoia, restlessness, and psychosis.

Damage to the Structure of the Brain

Cocaine abuse can lead to damage to the cardiovascular system. This can lead to damage to various organs in the body and changes the structure of the brain, leading to chronic headaches, blood clots which lead to stroke, and seizures.

Aging the Brain

A healthy brain loses grey matter slowly over time. So, the average brain loses 1.69 milliliters of gray matter per year. But, the brain of a cocaine abuser loses an average of 3.08 milliliters per year, Leading to premature memory loss and changes in cognitive ability.

Looking for a Detox in South Florida?

1st Step Behavioral Health provides the drug addiction treatment and support that clients need to begin their journey to long-term recovery from cocaine addiction or co-occurring disorders. Personalized treatment plans allow clients to get the targeted help they need to create healthier routines, improve their mental health, and reduce the risk of relapse, and much more! Contact us today!

Reviewed for Medical & Clinical Accuracy by Brittany Polansky, MSW, LCSW

Brittany has been working in behavioral health since 2012 and is the Assistant Clinical Director at our facility. She is an LCSW and holds a master’s degree in social work. She has great experience with chemical dependency and co-occurring mental health diagnoses as well as various therapeutic techniques. Brittany is passionate about treating all clients with dignity and respect, and providing a safe environment where clients can begin their healing journey in recovery.