Client: Hi. I am a recreational user of cocaine on weekends and don’t feel like it it is causing me any problems but I am wondering if regular use will lead to addiction? Should I be concerned?
Therapist:
Thank you for your question. The general answer will differ based on each individual’s impulse control and addictive behavior patterns. By nature, drugs can be highly addictive due to the increased stimulation and dopamine levels which leave you feeling elated. Dopamine reinforces the behaviors since it is a pleasure hormone of the brain.
Addiction can comes in many forms. Most addictions begin as casual use and offer a soothing distraction from a difficult circumstance. The behaviors starts as a well deserved break but somewhere along the the way it shifts from being a choice into a need.
Individual or group therapy options can be a helpful way to work on recovery from addiction.
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