Crack is basically a form of the illegal drug known as cocaine. The
name for crack comes from the crackling sound that is heard while the
drug is being smoked. By smoking crack, the effects are felt more
quickly than with other drugs, but the high does not last as long so users
find themselves using crack more and more frequently. The crash that
follows the high is such an awful experience that users will do almost
anything to avoid it. Of course, the body reacts to this use of crack by
building up a resistance, which makes it more difficult for the user to
get the high they are looking for. Crack is a very addictive substance,
and even those who think they will not get addicted by using it once or
twice can find themselves addicted.

Crack addiction has become a major problem in
the U.S. for a wide variety of reasons. Crack is smoked, instead of
injected or snorted, so it is considered by drug users to be more easy to
use. It is also cheaper than other drugs, is generally readily available
to anyone who wants it and is easy to conceal. Crack is often the drug
of choice for young people for these reasons.

The reason that crack addiction is such a serious issue is because
the potential for overdose with crack is very high. Crack is absorbed
into the lungs and taken throughout the body very quickly. An overdose of
crack can lead to convulsions, a coma and death in a matter of minutes.
Habitual users find their concentration skills and ambition seriously
decreased, and there is generally an increase of irritability and
paranoia. Those with a crack addiction are often violent and can even be
suicidal as depression is also a side effect of a crack addiction. In
addition, many crack users find they cannot keep a job and often turn to
crime to support their habit.

A crack addiction does not have to be something you or a loved one
has to struggle with alone. A crack addiction affects every person
around the addict, and can cause problems in every area of their life, from
personal to professional. If someone you know has a crack addiction, it
is imperative that they get help. There are many drug treatment options
available for a crack addiction, and our facility is one of those options.
The staff here at Cliffside Malibu is experienced in dealing with all
kinds of addictions, including crack. They provide an individualized
program in a peaceful and attractive setting.