image source: USDEA
0 to 7 Stages of Crack Cocaine Use and Withdrawal Pattern
0) Currently using: Auditory hallucinations, hypertensive, hyper vigilant. During usage a person may think they hear sirens, cars pulling up outside, music, people talking, etc. Some people will experience tactile hallucinations such as skin crawling or seeing bugs on their skin. They will be extremely alert to the point of paranoia — perhaps suspicious of any movement around the area where they are using. It is common to hide out in the area where use is occurring and refuse to answer the door.
1) Panic stage: 1-3 hours after last use. During this phase money for more is the prime concern. In this phase a person may look for something around their house to sell or pawn or may consider where they may beg, borrow or steal something to sell for cocaine. Looking for lint on the rug hoping something has fallen is common at this point. In this acute withdrawal period, people have been known to try to rob crowded public places (mall stores, convenience stores, fast food restaurants) to obtain goods to sell or money for more crack. The withdrawal is so intense and craving so high that the person has little ability to think or reason logically.
2) Crash Stage: 3-24 hours after last use. Depression; remorse (suicidal); brain is in desperate need of rest but the chemicals (serotonin) necessary for sleep have been depleted and it is difficult, at first, to sleep. In this phase one wonders why they spent all their paycheck, used funds that did not belong to them, pawned valuable household items for less than actual value, stole from persons they truly care about, etc. Often, under the influence of cocaine-induced depression, one makes promises to never do it again in this phase and believes it. Highest risk for suicide is during this period.
3) Honeymoon Stage: 1-5 days after last use. Characterized by feeling very good. The craving is not noticeable or is easily manageable during this phase. The drug effects seem to be wearing off and one is starting to regain confidence in their ability to handle the addiction. During this phase it is common to hear a person say, “I don’t even think about it, I’m not going to have any problem with it. I do not even want it anymore.” A delusive way of thinking that ignores their past cycles and paves the way for the next binge. The chemical messengers of the brain (serotonin/dopamine) necessary to enjoy crack are still depleted and behind this lack of interest in crack. This is a dangerous stage as it is easy to think there is not a problem and therefore, why worry about it? People let down their guard during this phase and commonly use defense mechanisms, e.g., rationalizing and minimizing, to convince themselves this time they are cured and so have no need of further support or treatment. There is a high risk for people in treatment to leave during this phase as they no longer feel, or are aware of, the physical and emotional affects of the original crisis.
4) Return of Craving: 5-14 days after last use. Tremendous upsurge of acute drug hunger, depression, anger. The body has produced enough serotonin/dopamine for the person to want to use more cocaine but not enough to affect stability of mood and emotions. During this phase one may experience vivid dreams, fantasies, and acute drug hunger. Thoughts may cycle around using until a person feels like giving in to the obsession to use. Defense mechanisms (rationalization, intellectualization, denial, minimizing) begin to make a strong comeback after being knocked down by the original crisis.
5) Emotional Augmentation: 14-28 days start – up to 1-2 years. Over-response to the normal stress and events of everyday life. At the top of the mood swing one is unusually happy and at the bottom one is unusually sad. The state of making mountains out of molehills. This is related to biochemical responses induced by strong emotions that stimulate areas where mood and mind altering drugs act on the brain. The body is now seriously undertaking the repairs of areas damaged by drug use and is replacing important chemicals needed to regulate mood and emotions. As a result, one is slightly off balance chemically without being consciously aware of it. There there is a strong need for accurate feedback on one’s behavior from an objective support group. (Recommend AA or NA or another type recovery support group.) This cannot be stressed too highly for long term success in recovery. Also, low impact exercise – walking, jogging, bicycling, low impact aerobics – and a well-balanced diet will shorten this phase and reduce the severity of the symptoms. Irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, short attention span, nightmares, insomnia, fatigue, and headaches are some of the normal recovery symptoms of the emotional augmentation stage.
6) Covert Cravings: 28-35 days. Secrets and bad judgments characterize this phase. Craving is not as strong on a regular basis but one may have periodic strong cravings and not want to admit it for various reasons. Thinking it is a sign of weakness, poor moral character, that they are not working a good program, that they simply should not be having cravings. Generally, the cravings are of a low level, e.g. euphoric recall (glorifying war stories), vivid dreams that trigger cravings upon awakening, or just general mild drug hunger. Without someone to talk with concerning these normal protracted withdrawal symptoms, they can evolve into high level cravings, e.g. acute drug hunger, drug seeking behavior, obsession and on to compulsion. Again the need for a support system is strongly recommended.
7) Cue Conditioning: 35 days upward. Cue conditioning – referred to as triggers – could be money, anger, disappointment, music, a film, or extreme joy. Anything strongly associated with using could cue/trigger a craving. The strength of these cue cravings will diminish in time but continue on for years although becoming few and far between. They can catch a person off guard and evolve into higher level cravings. Again, a long term support plan for sobriety AA/NA or recovery support group is recommended to alleviate these natural manifestations.
It is a normal part of recovery to have strong cravings due to acute withdrawal 3-7 days and then continued cravings at a lower level well into protracted withdrawal 6 months-2 years. Time and severity of protracted withdrawal depend upon type, amount, and frequency of drug used. Again, a program of good nutrition and low impact exercise can alleviate these normal recovery symptoms.
Please note that behavioral symptoms: compulsion, obsession, loss of control over time, place, amount used and continued use despite adverse consequences are secondary symptoms of the disease process. With continued treatment of the disease with abstinence and a good support system, these behavioral symptoms will diminish to normal discussions over time.
The above information was provided to a friend of a friend of mine in 2000 while he was in detox for crack cocaine addiction, and she recently emailed me a copy when she learned I was going to write about crack and homelessness. Thanks, friend. 
>> See also, “What You Need To Hear About Crack Cocaine”
crack is a very bad thing and you might end up on the new york corner with a sign that tell people that you need more money so you can buy more crack. also you can become a crackhead and live in the corner with no food or money and no home. your home would be a big card board box for the rest of your life.
A lot of the crack addicts I know don’t even have a box. Crack is whack.
Everything stated here is very true…I was clean for just over 1 year from Crack and have been only trying since June06′ staying in a recovery Home then Halfway houses and was so wrapped up in everything I had to do to figh the battle (Support groups, Church, Meetings, Working PT)..But now that I moved out of the halfway house at the beginning of May 08′ I tell ya’ the cravings have been driving me nuts i don’t even have to think of Crack they come and I know whats up with my body…N E way I have had a few rocks over the last 2 weeks and its weird because I have gone a few days already again and it feelsl ike I never did them……But I know deep inside when I get paid next week that Half my cheque is probably gonna go up in smoke ……To let you all know ITs not easy but it can be done…I’m fightin it so can u…AMEN!!
This is all so true. I have a boyfriend, 18, going through the 3rd day off it right now. He has been explaining how he feels constantly, and it sounds just like this!! Since he can’t afford any rehab, and I can’t pay for it, I have been having him just stay with me literally 24/7 for a few weeks. I am up right now at 1am, not sleeping, so i can make sure he is okay and nothing happens, while he rests. It’s a horrible horrible drug. It willl possess you. Best of luck to anyone trying to quit. You can do it…just keep trying!
God bless you. I’m praying for you both right now.
Im 21 and have been smoking crack for over 3 years. It has literally ruined EVERYTHING around me-my job,true friends my health credibility. Its no wonder why people struggle with it and why its so hard to stop bcuz honostly speakin it delivers an intense and pleasurable rush TEMPORARILY but u SUFFER IN THE LONGRUN IN MORE WAYS U CAN IMAGINE
My husband has been changing , mood swings , anger………… some of his crew have ben on crack and he has fired them……….. his eyes look sullen and settled more and more , his teethe are changing……….. He thinks I am crazy to wonder but I doubt he would admit it if he were ……Which I beleiev he is ………. Its like when he want s to get out to use i,I become the instant enemy. Heused to be so kind and patient now anything sets him off….oh dear what will become of us.
I binged for 15 months straight, everyday all day, slept for a few hours every 4 days or so. When I was using I pictured hitting my bottom would be a release, like death. At that moment if I knew life would go on and wrote a list of all the things I would like to have…deserve to have, it would have been short. Life is sweet now and I have much more than I thought possible. Don’t give up!!
I am making a website about the effects of crack in my school for my class. May I have permission to use the pictures on this website for my website.
Many Thanks.
which pictures? the crack picture is from the US DEA, as i noted. i don’t own it, so i can’t give permission for you to use it. are there other pictures you’re interested in? will you please email me via my contact form? thanks!
I’m 29 years old, I haven’t smoked any crack for almost a year now, I never went to rehab or detox, or any other program. In the last 4 months I have been having dreams so vivid and realistic I can taste the smoke, when I wake up (usually right after I exhale the smoke) I wonder if it was a dream, I even think about taking a look around my house to see if there is any around, sometimes even considering calling a dealer.
So far there has been mo relapse, as I am now married live in a new city where I know very few people and have a 6 month old child, the other night I had 4 seperate dreams…….each dream a continuation of the last, each one watching myself load a pipe, light, and inhale, and ending with me waking up during the exhale.
Why does this happen? Is a year not suitable enough time to overcome an addiction to crack? Is a year not suitable enough time to cleanse my body and mind of crack addiction? Has excessive substance abuse in the past left my brain/mind so damaged? Will this go away? I’m feeling troubled about this and I am having problems finding the answers………any insight?
What I know from science tells me that after a year, your brain is well on its way to healing. However, it’s possible that you do have some level of brain damage, depending upon on how long you used and how much. But honestly, and this is me talking now, not science, it really sounds more to me like a spiritual attack. I think that the enemy, and I do mean Satan, the enemy of our souls, is trying desperately to drag you back to a place that you got victory over. He’s not happy about it, and he wants to see you back in bondage.
Have you gotten any counseling? It sound as if crack is not the immediate problem for you right now. The dreams you’re having are symptomatic of a larger struggle in your life. Is there a counselor, a pastor, a friend at your church, a family member that you can go to and talk about these dreams? Have you prayed about it? Do you have a Bible? Read Psalms. Let God speak to you. Let Him comfort you. Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus? if not, that’s the beginning of the answer. The Holy Spirit is a defense against the enemy — as is the Word of God planted in you. That’s how Jesus answered Satan when He was tempted. He quoted Scripture. Learn it. Know it. Speak it out loud.
Print this Psalm and post it over the bed where you sleep. Read it out loud before you lay down each night, as a prayer to the LORD and a reminder to the enemy that you are protected by God:
The enemy always returns to try to wound us again in the places where he knows we are weak and vulnerable. But you have an advocate, a bodyguard, a defender, a redeemer, who is Christ the LORD. You do not have to fear. The battle is the LORD’s.
Amen. Peace to you. My friend Deb and I are praying for you.
Hey Mark Anthony. I’m a 34 year old man who has gone almost a year as well.
You are not alone in the dream thing. Your dreams sound identicle to mine.
What I noticed is that they will start to dissipate with time. Just don’t USE!! I used to have them quite frequently. In the dreams I was led to a room where a faceless person would share with me. I can remember thinking that my truck had been stolen and that I was stuck in the room. Then I would do a hit and immediatly wake up. The dream would be so vivid that when I would wake I would almost feel like I actually smoked for a split second. This sucks and you’re NOT the only one. I’ve used crack only about 5 times total in the last two years and zero times in the last 10 months.
My life has really done a 180 degree turn. I’m very happy and grateful for every day I don’t use. I’m so busy running my small business I don’t have much time to think about the drug anymore. Tonight for some reason..I felt like seeing who else was out there. I hope what I’ve said is helpful to you.
Good luck and take care my friend.
my boyfriend has been off it for almost a year now and he has took it 3 times and keeps phoning the dealer for it. will he ever come off it?
i’ve been clean 7 yrs as of this past may 24,2008 i still think about it from time to time and have cravings in thought also but not often…all of a sudden the past 3 days have been constant hell to keep from being stupid and ruining what i have accomplished…i’m proud of this but wish it would all go away once and for all…however i do notice when i get really angry, stressed ..etc if flares more often..i’ve been writing a book on the demons of crack and my story…any thoughts?
I’m the spouse of a CH. He’s been using for 6 months…he has always suffered a hereditary addiction problem–before this with alcohol. I even left him a year ago for his alcoholism being out of control. Eventually he got it together and we’ve been trying to reconcile. About 8 months ago he started again but about once a month instead of every 3 days. Six months ago he got drunk one night and tried this and now he’s hooked. This is a good Christian man, an extremely intelligent man with a Master’s Degree and a decent paying job who has steadily been going downhill in the last few months. He has gotten to the point that he can’t make it more than 2 days. He’s tried so hard to quit…he has alienated the people that tolerated him doing it in their homes because he doesn’t do it here with us..he’s ashamed and doesn’t want our kids to know, and he knows I wouldn’t allow it. He’s even made an appointment for a substance abuse counselor for tomorrow, so he seems serious about quitting. He’s missed 4 days of work claiming to be sick (that would be 6 days of being sick total in his employers eyes cuz it was over a weekend)–which seems unrealistic to me. He’s blowing through money left and right and I’m scared that without his income because he’s sure to get fired, that we will not financially make it on just my salary if I allow him to blow it all. He has money in his savings account that I have access to…he left tonight in the middle of the night. He text me to say that he tried to wake me, but I’ve been so exhausted with worry I didn’t even wake up. Everyday I pray for his safety…I feel guilty that I’ve been enabling him by allowing him to come home in between his binges. I’m trying hard to be strong for my kids…and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’d like to take the money out so he doesn’t have access…but I’m afraid he will become violent as in the past between binges his anger has flared and been close to intolerable. I’ve even mentioned my intent to him in the past few weeks when he’s had moments of lucidity and he was not opposed. The more I read about what people will do to get it when they run out of money the more I wonder what he’d actually lower himself to doing to get more of his fix. I am self employed out of my home and am worried if he shows up in a rage what he might do in front of my clients. Logically I know I have to take care of our kids…but I’m scared…I have not told my family…they have been so supportive of us reconciling and I worried them so much before that their health started to deteriorate because of it. I feel like I’m in a black hole dealing with this by myself…his family has resigned themself to the fact that when he wants help they will be there for him and he feels they really don’t care. I keep trying to remind myself that God will only put us through what He knows we can handle and that He is there with every step I make. My spouse is the love of my life, my true love, and my soulmate…I pray for his safety… for his sanity and strength to get through. Pouring my heart out in this message I turn to others in hope that they will share their words of advice and pray for our safety. Thank you for listening.
Phoenix-rising from the ashes…
From doing street outreach, I know a lot of people who are addicted to crack. I know people in all stages of addiction. And I have seen people stop and stay clean for years, but sadly, it seems to be the exception.
Someone close to me is now back in active addiction, and I’ve had to separate myself from that person, because of the negative behaviors and the dangers associated with it. Like you, Phoenix, I’m praying for the person’s safety. And I’m praying right now for you and your family, and for your husband.
I really believe that prayer is vital. The folks I know who’ve gotten clean and stayed clean are focusing on God. When you take something out of your life, you have to replace it with something else. Crack addiction is huge and overwhelming. But it is tiny in comparison to the God of the universe. Nothing is beyond Him.
Phoenix, I must tell you that I related to your story in many ways. Although my ex-boyfriend and I only lived together and had no children together. And, yes, you can believe they will do anything to get crack. I’ve had to kick my boyfriend out many times this past year and kept taking him back when he would come off a binge. He became used to this pattern. His addiction has gotten worse over the last 8 months.
However, after this last time when he took my truck for over a month and wouldn’t bring it back, I had to issue a warrant for his arrest and cut all ties with him, as I was afraid he would ruin my life, as well as his own. He was stopped by police for running a stop sign and while checking his license, he fled, wrecked my truck, and ran on foot. My truck was totalled.
Just two days ago, he was arrested for robbery in the third degree. Over the past two months, because of his overwhelming crack addiction, he has three charges pending: unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, resisting arrest and now robbery. It’s terrible.
You must get your husband in treatment as quickly as possible. It will probably only get worse. Once they’re hooked, they became a different person, they feel no emotion or remorse…only getting the drug becomes the most important thing of the day…the next day..and the next. Money burns up in smoke, literally. And it’s dangerous for your husband to be out there getting it because once his drug buddies/friends no longer want to be around him, he will deal with the dealer directly…this can be dangerous not only to him but you and your family.
You said you were scared…well, you should be. You have so much to lose. You have these children and depend on your husband’s income. Once my boyfriend became hooked, he quit his job, and I had to pick up the pieces financially. It was hard.
I was an enabler in so many ways. But I stopped because it was only helping him to continue his drug use. You must stop being an enabler. I know this is hard because he’s your husband and you love him. I just hope as you said in your comments that he did go to the counselor. He needs inpatient treatment and mental health counseling immediately. Don’t wait.
I love someone who likely, despite words, cannot love me back – not in the way I perceive love. But I understand – or hope I do. It will be ok. It is ok. It is what it is. I accept it with tears.
I’ve seen a former friends’ life go down the tubes since she’s been smoking for the last 3 years. She has lost custody of her 7y/o son to Social Services, she has sex with dealers and her “sugar daddies” to get her crack fix since she cant work (due to many arrest warrants which she is still running form 2 years later) and hasn’t had a job in those 2 years. I am sick of trying to help her. I have now cut her out of my life cuz she got me into it and now I am struggling to get rid of the urge to smoke altogether. I have a bad feeling the only time she will stop is when she dies from it. I don’t want to be the one to find her obituary in the paper one morning…it’s sad but true. I have my own son and his future with me to worry about now and thats it. BTW, Rehab doesn’t cost a thing if you go through the Narcotics Anonymous program in your area (in response to a previous commment). You don’t need money to get clean, just good people in NA with the same goal to support eachother. Good luck to me and everyone trying to quit! Blessed Be!
i know a 17 yr old who is using and is depressd and thinkn bowt ending their life and also has many of the other symptoms described above. they say they dnt wana quit because it numbs the pain. what do you suggest i do to help them and make them realise that they should quit?
God isn’t going to do anything for you cause he isn’t there, if you used drugs take fucking respnosibility that you did it, not god. Oh and I just love this page’s propaganda, great work!
Spaghetti monster bless you all!
All stages you describe are correct. I’m 44 and have been fighting this demon for 4 years. It took my business,my family,my friends,my former life. It consumes your thoughts,corrupts your morals,taking you to depths you would never imagine you would go. Believe the hype, this drug is evil,you sell your soul for a momentary high,and mortgage your future with an apathy that will surprise all who know you. Never ever touch this crap, it is the real deal
KM, you get it. I feel so bad for you. I hope you will be able to get off crack. You are right. It is the REAL DEAL!! The REAL DEAL that will take you into the black hole. There are two directions left to go if you stay hooked…death or jail. Good luck to you…
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Thank You Renee for your kind words. I now realize that everyday I must affirm to myself that I have an addictive personality,and I can never delude myself into thinking that I can casually use, as it will always lead to a return to binging. Life is good today,I didn’t use and I will continue to make sure that it will be good tomorrow only through this realization. Thanks again for your comments
KM, I hope you had a good week…a good day…a good hour. For it’s tiny baby steps to success. Stay Strong. Phoenix, I think about you and wonder how you are. Did your husband get counseling and treatment? Are you all still in the cycle of drug abuse? I hope you and your family are ok.
KM, I pray for you…believe that God will not give you what you cannot handle. Soar in peace…one day at a time. Renee, thanks for your response. You have been down a rough road similar to mine minus the incidents with the law. You sound strong–did he contact you when he was arrested if not how did you find out? I hope that his time in jail will help him regroup and then start over when he is out. Have you been able to move past this? Here’s an update since I last wrote..he came home on the 17th and made it 17 days without using…he faithfully took the amino acids that research recommendeds for helping balance the body through recovery…never did attend the counselor but is still not opposed, but really started to move forward mentally and physically. Had several rough nights, and still made it through. Fell apart then he made it 9 days and then fell apart and the last two weeks it’s been every 3 days. He ended his employed contract position…it was up in 2 weeks anyways and at least it was on a good note incase he ever wants/is able to go back. I encouraged him to get healthy before taking on the stress of another job…he has some money to get through for a little while if he doesn’t blow it first. As for the kids and me…we are surviving…trying to get through life as normally as possible…sort of like he has a job that takes him away overnight on business or a couple of days. I am being strong for the kids, but am emotional…I’ve tried to let go and detach myself allowing him to have control of his own finances and telling him that he will have to leave when his money runs out. After all…this is his battle. Sooner or later he has to deal with it on his own. I will only support him emotionally if he is making an effort and right now…I don’t feel he is getting the necessary help he needs. Tears flow daily for what could be, mind you we’ve been together for eighteen years. I keep trying to be positive, believe and visualize life past all of this and I have my days where I just don’t know how life will be ok. It’s hard to find someone who you ‘connect’ with in this crazy world. Our love is the kind of love that happens once in a lifetime. I learned last year that I can live without him if I must, but feel the need to do every thing I can without losing myself before I completely disengage. I am untrusting, but I am hopeful…I truly believe that others out there can help by praying for him and can make a difference. I didn’t grow up being demonstratively religious/spiritual, but I had a great childhood, so I never needed anything but to be thankful. I wish I could reach others who could support him spiritually by praying for his peace. So if you’d please…take a minute–spread the word to those you know–reach out and please pray for ‘Doug’… please… even just for the sake of his 2 little ones who adore him and want their Daddy home–please pray for his peace and strength. Thank you for sharing and listening.
Phoenix
My name is Charles Wingate and i am addicted to crack cocaine. I began smoking crack at the age of 21 , introduced to me by a “friend”. I have been to rehab twice and failed to stay clean both times. I met and married my wife 10 years ago . We have two beautiful children together. I do love my wife and kids with all my heart and soul but unfortunitly that love wasnt enough, for i have sporaticlly maintained soberiety for a few months at a time only to fall the deep end again. Over the last 10 years my wife has endured more heartache than any human ever should due to the lie’s ive told. I recently lost my job after a week long binge with a company truck and gas card. My wife has had enough and has put me out. I currently live with my father in Tennessee I have been here about 2 months. I enrolled myself in an intensive outpaitient program and have managed to stay clean for 2 months now. However My wife hasnt decided wether or not she wants to remain married to me I dont blame her. I am hurting so bad on the inside due to my stupidity i dont know what to do. I have no craving for crack what so ever. I do not want to lose my wife and kids. So I keep telling myself that i dont want to use ever again. I m basically trying to prove to her that i can stay clean. However i do realize i have to remain clean for myself first, i cant focus on anything but her. I know she needs time to make a decision. I call my children and speak with them daily I also speak to her sometime we argue, sometimes we dont.
I drove for 5 hours Friday and spent the weekend with her and my two children. The kids and I had a wonderful time, I on the other hand could not stop crying when alone with my wife. She tells me that im pressuring her too much and its driving her crazy. So i told her that I would back off and give her the time she needs.
This is the hardest thing i have ever had to deal with. To sit idle in hopes that the mother of my children, the woman I love with all my heart, doesnt decide she wants a divorce.
To me, giving up crack cocaine is easy compared to what im feeling in regards to losing my family. I realize what I want in life and who I can be. Im just so heartbroken that its taken me losing my family to make me realize this.
She on the other hand is the strongest human I have ever met. to put up with the lies, drugs and an affair for as long as she has, i realize now is amazing.
I know all I can do is stay clean and hope that she see’s the person i am becoming.
I do not want to lose her. I was raised by a single parent and an abusive step parent. I have seen first hand what its like to grow up with out both parents around and It makes me sick to think thaat my kids may have to go through the same things i did as a child.
Someone please give me some advice. Someone please help me with this.
Charles, I’ve asked some recovered and recovering friends of mine to pray for you, and I will, too. This I know: God makes a way where there’s no way.
Getting off crack is all about will power i have been off for two years now and i dont want crave need or desire it! i had gotten pregnant and thats all it took!! my husband almost left me and that was part of it to. find something you care about deeply and then just say no i also just recently quit smoking cigarettes!!
MY husband in a CH! I have lived in hell for the last 4 years of his addiction. Through it all I have managed to earn my graduate degree, raise our daughter and attend a doctoral program. It has been hard. The lies, cheating and crack usage not to mention the verbal, mental and physical abuse. I have done all I can to try and hang in there. Now I know that I have been part of the problem. The only way I feel he will even attempt to get help is when I have left him. Trust me I am working on it. It has taken everything in my power to hang in there but I am very tired.
He has moved out of the bedroom (9 months now) and into the basement. He smokes it down there because I have found pipes, and that copper wire. I wish he would find the courage to leave. We live in a wonderful neighborhood and I hate to move my daughter, but I don’t feel I have a choice.
Any advice???
Kim
Ok, I have a dilemna and I kind of feel stupid at this point. I was with my ex-boyfriend for almost 5 years. We have broken up, gotten back, broken up, gotten back, etc. over those 5 years. One year (about 2 years ago), he got a job doing home improvements for an individual, not a company. Well, the individual gave him almost $2,000 to get the materials, paint, etc. After he received the money, he disappeared for 3 days. 3 days!!!! When he finally came home, he didn’t have a dime of that man’s money. Also, when he finally called me on the third day, he confessed to me that he was on crack and that he binged for 3 days and that he was at the beach planning to kill himself by driving himself in the lake. I convinced him to come home. When he got home, it was like “whatever”. I think he used the suicide thing to get back in my house. Well, after the guy who initially gave him the money ($2,000) kept calling, I started to feel bad for him, so I gave him $1,000 to go and buy most of the material and start the job. He claims he bought the material, however, I think he took my money as well and smoked it up as well. Anyway, haven’t had any more incidences like that since then; however, sometimes when he gets home, it’s damn near 6 in the morning. He gets super drunk (but I don’t hardly smell the liquor sometimes). I think he’s still getting high. One time, he came in all fidgety and asked me for the money that I was holding for him and because he was sooooooooo anxious, I just gave it to him and he just ran out of the house, disappearing until the next day. He also has mood swings like you wouldn’t believe. He would start arguments just because! Now, mind you, I just had a baby this year by him and now, he doesn’t want anything to do with us. Before then, he would always come back. I know I’m lucky to not have to deal with this, but does crack make you a non-caring father? Does he stay away now because he thinks he will ruin us? That he will ruin his baby in some sort of way? Please advise.
Tiffany, I’m not an expert, but from what I’ve seen, crack can just take over a person’s life. It’s not that they don’t care about their family, but the drug just seems to take control. I hope that others with more knowledge will comment here and give you advice. Please know that I’m praying for you.
Tiffany, here’s some advice from a friend and former crack addict, who wishes you well:
I have read plenty of comments here and some of the answers can completely confuse people when it comes to what must be done to dealing with people on crack. Addiction is cunning, baffling and powerful. The three areas that are affected the most is the physical sense, mental sense and the spiritual sense. Until we improve upon these three areas, there can be no long lasting sober/clean time. Sure, this is a large order, but through my experience with addiction, when I did improve upon these areas of my life, I was able to live more productive and crossed over obstacles in order to not use. This is a life time process, so nothing can last for a long time if I do not approach it through each day I live. Will power does not get someone to quit addiction and substitution does not last long, I do know these things through my experiences. I do not wish addiction even on my worst enemy. So try something else if what you are doing now doesn’t work!
I have been in a marriage for almost 8 years with a man who is an addict. At first I was unaware of his use. Needless to say I was floored when I found out and it took me a while to decide if I was going to stay in the relationship in hopes to help him over come his illness. Now that we have surfaced upon our 7th/8th year in this battle, I believe I have heard every lie in the book far as him saying he doesn’t have a problem and that he can stop at anytime. My husband was hired into a government company that pays very well. Now his habit has gotten worse and he is very abusive towards me and I’m always the blame in his eyes. I gues the only up front way to say it is that I married a monster. I love him but I’m tired of the mental abuse and physical abuse. He is the bread winner in our house but we are a paycheck away from being on the street. How do you open ones eyes to all the wrong and hurt their addiction has caused? He is just not the man I met and married anymore. Sincerely I want out but I have no means and no where to go!
Pat, I feel for you…and sad as it may sound…all the stories I read sound the same. I have been with my husband for 18 years and was also floored…I, too decided to try and help him…I read everything I could…supplements to take, diets that affect balance through recovery and even one on one counselors since he wouldn’t go to rehab. The website http://www.crackreality.com really opened my eyes to how far they will go to get what they want. They are oblivious to their destruction…they are consumed by their addiction. Everyone I hear about that has made the change to quit has hit rock bottom with no one to help them get up but themselves. I am numb to say the least…I want him back, I miss him and everyday that he is gone I feel like I’m dying. Everything we planned to share together in life seems to just slowly be slipping away. We survivors are all in this together…you are not alone…I pray for your safety, be careful.
Phx-rising from the ashes
I originally came to this website only for the info at the top, for a paper that I am writing, but then I started reading the stories on here from other people. Many of them brought tears to my eyes. I am not an addict, except to chocolate, and I have never had any experience with this sort of thing, this addiction. I only know the greif that I myself have experienced, which is nothing similar to this, but I truely hope that each of these life-stories ends happily. I am not perfect, and I know that, but I greive for those who go through this torture and my heart goes out to you all. I have been praying for you and will continue to pray for you all. I have included some verses that I hope at least one of you will find helpfull.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:28-31
May God Bless You.
I stumbled upon your website trying to find some answers to help me understand the crack cocaine addiction. I have a friend whom I am very much fond of. She has had this addiction for about ten years. She has been upfront and straight with me about her addiction. She don’t use around me. She has money! so she goes on binges for about a week and returns to her beautiful home. I just had prayer with her last night over the phone, she had called me to just let me know that she was alright. I am praying now that GOD will deliver her from this evil demon. I wanted to comment on your site thank u so much for the info. I have never tried crack cocaine, and never will, with the help of GOD almighty! Thank you so much! and may the Peace of God continue to be with u and your Ministry. TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOREVER AND EVER!!!!!!!!!
My name is doris,im 19 years old and i was reading up on this web site to see if there was anything that i would notice about my mom, because i think she is doing crack, i mean im not trying to sound like my life is the best because belive me its not i have a 3 year old daughter and one on the way at the age 19…and thats why i was wrighting. my mom sometimes stays with me because she doesnt have a home and i dont want her around my children if she is going to be on crack and i wanted to tell her about her self but i wanted to do it in a nice way because any other mother wouldnt want someone on crack around there children..i have to go because my daughter has to get ready for preschool…but could someone tell me what to do because im really stressing out right now..and good luck to all of u trying to quit may the lord be with you all…GOD BLESS
Hi everyone, I had a boyfriend who I’ve known for about 5 years. I had heard rumours about him smoking crack but he hid it well and denied it. He looked in my eyes and lied to my face and easily. He says he loves me and he’s done with it, I just can’t believe him with his promises to change. He needs help, I don’t think he will because he doesn’t want anyone to know. He is such a likeable person, I had to end it because I have children and he is not the role model I am looking for, I love and care for him but I cannot deal with someone who does crack, I have kids to look after. I cannot trust him. I miss him so much it hurts. I feel so saddened by this. It breaks my heart. I hope he opens up his eyes for his own sake. I truly and genuinely care for him. What else can I do?
I had to end a good friendship because of my friend’s addiction to alcohol and crack. He’s one person when he’s sober and another when he’s using. The sober one is great, the using one is an abusive nightmare. He keeps saying he’s going to get help and quit, but it’s always the same old story — it never happens. Sometimes you just have to walk away. Sad, but true. I hope he changes someday, for his sake. Until then, he’s going to take down anyone who stays around him. It’s tragic. And he’s the only one who can do anything about it. I hate addiction.
My mother has been on it for about the past 30 years. She has erratic mood swings, and she looks 10 years older than she actually is. Her philosophy is, “It’s not what you do, it’s how you do it.” Which is so wrong. I’m about to move out of my house so I can live in peace. She swears that she isn’t addicted to anything, even though everyone of us know she is. She would never in her life go to rehab. I’m just over caring about her at this point. I have completely walked away from her. I’m only 19, in school, and I just don’t need this in my life. I just don’t love her at all. There is nothing to love. It’s sad, but I’m done.
Wow, I am speechless… I came to the web to find info on crack and I think I am loosing hope. I have been with this man who is a crack addict. He was in programs 3 times already, but this last one we thought would really change his life. I feel really bad since I know that right at this minute he is on a binge (and has been for the past few days). Nothing I can do about it. We broke our relationship because he had become very angry, controlling and I could not deal with the disappearing acts on the weekends. love this man very much, did (until now) have some hopes that this addiction would go away. But when I read some of the stories at this site I wonder… Will an 8 month Christian program work for good? Should I move on with my life and let him be? He is a very good man, with a huge heart, and a great boyfriend without the drugs… Any prayers would be greatly appreciated, I am trying to find as many people as possible to pray not only for him, but to all the people dealing with this…
Thanks
Can somebody please talk to me? I try sooooo hard to stay away from this drug and it seems like everytime I think I got shit under control someone will come to my window and ask me to get high with them. The temptation is so strong and I always give in. I dont want to hurt myself or my family anymore then I have in the past. My mother is suspicious and thinks I am up to no good and its true but I dont want to tell her that I am smoking crack. Please somebody give me some suggestions….thank you.
Matt, please believe in yourself…you’re not a bad person…just controlled by a mind over matter game. The cravings are addictive mentally. If you were to rehab– counselors/doctors don’t consider the cravings physically addictive. It’s a battle in your mind. You are gonna have to change your environment to be more successful. I previously wrote about my husband and he did finally quit, at least so far. He had to hit rock bottom before he stopped. He had no money, and trusted no one…then he realized he didn’t want this for his life…he was ashamed and finally saw that he wanted more than just getting high…he wanted to LIVE again. You have to find that in yourself. The first 17 days were the hardest and then he just got better by leaps and bounds…he started exercising again, and doing the things that made him most happy, and when cravings came on he learned to recognize them and try to escape by sleeping through them. I know diet plays a big role in addiction. Dr. Charles Gant wrote a book called “End Your Addiction Now–A Proven Nutritional Program that can Set you Free” in it he recommends a power recovery program with supplements that help. He explains that people lower their own ability to naturally produce chemicals that make you balanced by smoking, drinking, drugs(prescription/recreational), even stress–your body can’t keep up. In order to function you keep needing/craving the high that crack gives you to feel good. By taking the recommended supplements you can help eliminate that ‘gap’ that is created when you try to quit…eventually your body will start producing it’s own again naturally. It did help my husband…but everyone is different. You cannot fail if you keep on believing that you can do it. I will not lie to you…it will be hard, even now my husband has bad dreams, and cravings…it’s a choice now–maybe you should confide in your mother…let her help you through. She can’t help you if she doesn’t understand what you’re going through. A mother’s love is unconditional…she will love you no matter what and she may be the one light you can count on in your dark world right now. She of all people wants you to be happy and healthy. I wasn’t even the one who was doing it, but it consumed my every breath in life to see the love of my life destroying himself…it is evil and it seems hopeless, BUT it isn’t. Grasp on to what you love and what makes you YOU and you will find your way through it. You’ve got the drive and motivation–you want to quit… We will pray for you…
my life is heading downhill quite rapidly and i want to do crack badly
Hello Everyone,
I must say that I was surfing the net to find ways to prevent someone from using crack. It might sound ridicious but true. Many of these stories are similar because that what crack does it takes away everything and everyone you love that very second. I myself is in love with someone who abuses crack. It is an unfortunate situation. This person who was loved by everyone and is still loved by everyone can not let this demon go. That is what I actually called this drug a “DEMON.” I knew this person since I was younger and never imagine in a million years that his life would of turned out to be this way. I am also a daughter of a drug addict and I never thought that I would have fallen in love with someone who abuses drugs because of all the suffering I experience growing up. I love this person dearly and all the experiences you guys have discuss have been similar in my case. Right when everything is going well and he is strong and a month has gone by then the bomb hits. I must say that we have been together for a year now, I do not have any children with this person or married to this person so WHY do I stay? I can not explain. I also should mentioned that we have been a year together since we bumped into each other and he has made a lot of progress but it is still not enough. When I go to sleep at night I hold to him and pray for him without him knowing. At night I cry myself to sleep hoping that this can all end. He is not a bad person and can be the best man any girl would want BUT this abuse wipes all of it away. I have been supportive in any possible way but I also feel like Phoenix guilty for allowing him to come back home after he has gone on his missions. I feel really good that I have come into contact with people who really care about their love ones and who are trying their best to overcome this horrific DRUG! Thank all of you for your advice and for sharing your story.
I am looking for ways to distract him with activities and events that we can join to distract his mind. This is exhausting but the last thing that I want to do is give him my back because that point it will be the end of our relationship. I always think to myself why did this have to happen to him like many of you possible think to yourselves.
-Strength
Hi, Sunday I changed the locks because my husband was missing once again after using his paycheck to get high. He has been telling the family that he needs cash to help pay the rent but thats not true. This has been going on for 7 yrs and I cant take anymore. Our daughter is not outwardly showing that she misses him because he just came home from jail in May. he steals from me not only the things but our peace. Last Sunday he robbed his sons mother of all of her jewelry. That was the last straw. It has been 13 days and he has not been back to know that I changed the locks and packed his bag. Why do I feel ashamed, guilty, as if I did not help him enough. I feel like I am letting him down, when I know it is the other way around. I want to turn my back and give him the tough love treatment, but I also want him to recover so that we can be a family again. Deep in my heart, I dont think that will happen. Am I right to do this? I no longer want to enable him.