Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that impacts the brain and central nervous system. It can lead to long-term physical and psychological health effects, including heart disease, depression, and anxiety.
Anxiety, in particular, is one of the most commonly reported effects by cocaine users. Research consistently shows how cocaine can cause anxiety or exacerbate existing anxiety disorders.
Read on to understand what cocaine is, how it affects the brain, and the link between cocaine and anxiety.
What is Cocaine?
Cocaine is an “intense, euphoria-producing stimulant drug with strong addictive potential.” It is classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse, leading to physical or psychological dependence.
Cocaine is derived from coca leaves grown in Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru. According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration, about 90% of the cocaine found in the United States is produced in Colombia and enters through the US-Mexican border [1].
It is commonly sold as a white powder, where users snort it or inject it through the veins after dissolving it in water. Common street names for cocaine may include:
- Coke
- Blow
- Snow
- Flake
Short-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse
There are several effects that cocaine can cause that impact one’s mental and physical health. These include:
| Physical Effects | Psychological Effects |
| Dilated pupils | Restlessness |
| Insomnia | Irritability or aggression |
| Lack of appetite | Anxiety |
| Increased heart rate | Depression |
| Sweating/trembling | Paranoia |
| Rapid speech that is hard to follow | Mental exhaustion (during the comedown) |
| Nose bleeds | In severe cases, psychosis (hallucinations, delusions) |
What Does Cocaine Do To The Brain?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cocaine targets circuits in the brain that regulate the pleasure and reward system. It causes a significant spike in the neurotransmitter, dopamine, responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Cocaine overloads these circuits and even triggers adaptations at the cellular level to compensate for drug-induced effects [2].
Cocaine can cause functional and structural changes to several key regions of the brain. The primary areas of the brain affected by cocaine use include:
- The Extended Amygdala plays a key role in response to fear and stress. It’s designed to protect us during times of danger; however, it is sometimes activated when no threat is present. After the effects of cocaine subside, the amygdala may increase feelings of anxiety, discomfort, or pain often felt during the withdrawal process [2].
- The Prefrontal Cortex controls planning, organization, problem-solving skills, impulse control, and decision-making. Studies show that cocaine use can alter the functions of the prefrontal cortex, causing a loss of inhibitory control and compulsive behaviors, leading to drug seeking and addiction [2].
- The Basal Ganglia are a group of subcortical nuclei responsible for executive functioning, behaviors, emotions, and the pleasure-reward cycle. It plays a key role in developing habits and routines, as well as pleasure-induced motivation, such as from behaviors like eating food or having sex. The basal ganglia interpret cocaine as one of these pleasure-induced behaviors, leading to habitual use and, eventually, addiction [3].
The Connection Between Cocaine and Anxiety
Chronic cocaine use leads to changes in brain chemistry that contribute to the development or worsening of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety or panic disorder. Studies have shown there is a direct link between cocaine use and the increase in panic attacks [4].
Cocaine increases levels of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. This quick surge in neurotransmitters is what leads to euphoria but also contributes to anxiety, restlessness, and irritability.
It also causes physiological symptoms that lead to anxiety. Cocaine increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can mimic the physical symptoms of an individual with an anxiety disorder [4].
Supporting A Loved One with Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction not only impacts one’s health but can damage their relationships, academic standing, finances, and work performance. It can be distressing knowing a loved one struggles with cocaine abuse, especially if you see them experiencing co-occurring symptoms of anxiety.
Some of the ways you can support your loved one struggling with an addiction to cocaine include:
- Encourage them to seek professional help. If you can, help them contact rehab facilities or an addiction specialist for support.
- Educate yourself on cocaine addiction and recovery. Here are a few resources to get you started:
- Set boundaries with what you can and can’t help them with. It’s especially important to set financial limits so you don’t enable their addiction.
- Actively listen to their struggles and validate their emotions. Many users develop a cocaine habit to manage underlying mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or loneliness.
- Distract them with wholesome, sober activities such as hiking, taking a cooking class together, or seeing a movie.
Cocaine Addiction Recovery in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands the complex nature of drug & alcohol recovery. We prioritize your well-being, safety, and comfort during treatment. Our detox and residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward sobriety.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of your substance abuse. Let our team help you get clean, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery. Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] Cocaine Drug Fact Sheet. 2024. Drug Enforcement Administration.
[2] Drugs, Brain and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. 2020. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
[3] Functional Neuroanatomy of the Basal Ganglia. 2012. National Library of Medicine.
[4] Cocaine and Psychiatric Symptoms. National Library of Medicine.
