Teen cocaine abuse is a serious and growing issue across the United States. While there are many substances that teens misuse, few are as dangerous — or as fast-acting — as cocaine. This substance impacts the central nervous system and rewires how the brain handles pleasure and reward, causing long-term side effects that could derail your teen’s life.
If your teen is struggling, our adolescent cocaine treatment program helps them understand the risks, build better coping skills, and start to recover in a safe, supportive setting. For families seeking cocaine abuse treatment in Los Angeles CA, Ascend is here to help.
Types of Cocaine
Cocaine is typically found in three forms:
- Cocaine hydrochloride (salt): The powdered form often snorted or dissolved for injection
- Freebase cocaine: A smokable version that’s more potent but also more dangerous
- Crack cocaine: A rock-like form smoked for an intense, fast high. it’s considered the most addictive and harmful of the three.
Each form poses serious health risks and can lead to addiction quickly, especially for young users.
Side Effects of Cocaine Abuse
Like all stimulants, cocaine puts stress on the heart, brain, and body. While short-term use can lead to feelings of euphoria and increased energy, it also causes:
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Irritability or paranoia
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia or restlessness
Long-term use may result in:
- Mood instability and depression
- Lung or nasal damage
- Heart disease and stroke
- Digestive system problems
- Risk of overdose or cardiac arrest
Early intervention through a trusted adolescent cocaine treatment program can help teens avoid lifelong health challenges.
Causes of Teen Cocaine Abuse
Teens may turn to cocaine for many reasons, including peer influence, stress, or curiosity. Furthermore, cocaine’s effects can seem appealing: increased confidence, intense energy, focus, or even weight loss.
Its high cost and reputation also give it social appeal, making it attractive to teens seeking status or rebellion. But no matter the reason, the path forward is the same: getting professional help.
Our cocaine abuse treatment in Los Angeles CA addresses both the drug use and the emotions behind it, helping teens find more sustainable ways to feel good, fit in, and manage life.
Signs of Cocaine Use in Teens
If you’re worried your teen may need help, watch for these signs of cocaine abuse:
- Unusual bursts of energy or talkativeness
- Decreased appetite or sudden weight loss
- Runny nose or frequent sniffling
- Dilated pupils or nervous behavior
- Mood swings or paranoia
- Secretive or combative behavior
These symptoms can be subtle or come on suddenly. If something feels off, trust your instincts — it may be time to seek professional care.
Our Adolescent Cocaine Treatment Program
Ascend offers a residential adolescent cocaine treatment program built around each teen’s needs. Our experienced team works with teens to uncover the reasons behind their drug use and replace harmful habits with healthy, lasting strategies.
Treatment includes:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family counseling
- Experiential therapies (art, music, outdoor activities)
- Academic and emotional support
If you’re searching for trusted residential treatment program, our team is ready to help your teen heal in a compassionate, structured environment.
Call 310.388.3713 today to speak with our admissions team and learn more about starting the journey toward recovery.
FAQs
What are the signs that a teen may need treatment for substance use?
Signs can include bursts of energy, rapid speech, loss of appetite, or dramatic mood changes. Some teens show physical symptoms like frequent nosebleeds or dilated pupils, while others may become withdrawn or combative. If these patterns feel familiar, it may be time to consider an adolescent cocaine treatment program.
Why might a teen experiment with cocaine?
Curiosity, pressure to perform, or a desire to feel more confident in social settings can lead teens to try cocaine. Some are drawn to the drug’s stimulant effects, while others may be struggling with deeper emotional challenges. Comprehensive substance use treatment helps uncover what’s really going on.
How can cocaine impact a teen’s long-term health?
Cocaine can seriously affect the heart, brain, and emotional regulation. For teens, who are still developing physically and mentally, the risks are even greater — ranging from chronic anxiety to cardiovascular damage. Early support through an adolescent cocaine treatment program can reduce long-term harm and promote healing.
What should families expect from treatment at Ascend?
Teens in our care engage in therapy, creative expression, and connection with themselves and others. Our cocaine abuse treatment in Los Angeles CA blends structure with compassion, helping teens rebuild trust, motivation, and stability — both in treatment and at home.