Is My Brother a Cocaine Addict?

It can be very difficult to admit your concern that a loved one may be addicted to a dangerous drug like cocaine. Look for the signs listed below to determine whether or not your brother may be a cocaine addict.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug” that can create a severe addiction syndrome in those who abuse it consistently and in high doses.

If you are already aware your brother is using this drug, it may be difficult to know for certain if he has in fact become dependent on it. The signs below point to a serious cocaine abuse syndrome that is highly uncontrolled and, therefore, in need of treatment.

• The repeated cycle of binge-crash abuse • Psychotic behavior (including violent outbursts, hallucinations, and paranoia) • Seizures • Mood disturbances • Showing hostility when asked about his substance use • Stealing from or lying to others in order to use more • Performing dangerous actions in order to obtain more of the drug • Legal, financial, professional, or personal problems that are associated with his substance abuse

All of these are strong signs that the drug is becoming more necessary to him than anything else. In addition, if he has experienced severe physical, psychological, or other types of consequences as a result of his cocaine abuse, he should seek treatment immediately.

How Do I Know He’s an Addict?

Without the proper diagnosis from a doctor, you cannot know for certain if your brother is definitely an addict, but certain symptoms, like those above, point heavily to this conclusion. The main sign of addiction is a lack of control: if your brother is not able to stop abusing cocaine even when he wants to or knows he should, he is suffering from a serious disorder. Still, it is important to seek a doctor’s help as well as to find a treatment program for your brother.