Treatment options for stimulant addiction: what works and why

Stimulant addiction is a growing public health concern, with substances such as cocaine and amphetamines contributing significantly to physical, psychological, and social harm. Despite differing in form and intensity, both types of stimulants produce powerful euphoric effects that make them highly addictive and difficult to stop using without professional support.

Cocaine remains one of the most misused illegal substances in the United Kingdom. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2.4% of adults aged 16 to 59 reported using cocaine in the past year. This usage rises sharply amongst younger adults, with 5.1% of those aged 16 to 24 reporting use during the same period. Although amphetamines are used less frequently in comparison, growing police seizures and regional disparities highlight a rising concern, particularly in the north of England.

At Ibiza Calm, we specialise in treating all forms of stimulant addiction using evidence-based therapies delivered in a supportive, residential setting. This blog explores what works in treating cocaine and amphetamine addiction, and why, to help those struggling make informed choices on the journey towards recovery.

Cocaine: widespread use and hidden harm.

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant derived from the leaves of the coca plant, native to South America. It typically appears in two forms: powdered cocaine, which is commonly snorted, and crack cocaine, a solid, crystalised version that is smoked.

Powdered cocaine use has become deeply entrenched in UK nightlife and social scenes, often perceived as a “party drug” or a way to boost confidence and energy. However, the perceived social acceptability masks serious health risks.

Short-term effects:

• Sudden burst of energy and euphoria.
• Increased confidence and alertness.
• Short-lived high, typically lasting under an hour.
• Followed by a “crash” marked by depression, anxiety, and fatigue.

Health risks:

• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
• Risk of seizures, heart attacks, and stroke.
• Mental health issues including anxiety, paranoia, and depression.
• High potential for addiction, even after limited use.
• Nasal damage and nosebleeds from snorting.

Whilst powdered cocaine is often viewed as less dangerous than crack, both forms carry life-threatening risks and can lead to long-term psychological and physiological damage.

Amphetamines: A growing threat.

Amphetamines are synthetic stimulant drugs that increase activity in the brain and central nervous system. They can be prescribed for medical use (such as ADHD), but are often used recreationally to induce euphoria, energy, and alertness.

Although the overall trend of amphetamine use in the UK remains lower than other substances, concerns are rising. In the year ending March 2023, police forces across the UK seized 331kg of amphetamines — a 36% increase from the previous year. This increase in seizures may indicate a growing supply and demand, despite reported declines in usage among young adults.

Use of amphetamines appears to be more prevalent in the north of England, a trend that continues to be monitored by public health authorities.

Immediate effects:

• Increased heart rate and rapid breathing.
• Heightened alertness and confidence.
• Restlessness, jaw clenching, and dry mouth.
• Loss of appetite and inability to sleep.

Long-term risks:

• Damage to the heart and circulatory system.
• Memory loss and cognitive impairment.
• Risk of stroke and long-term mental health issues.
• Mood swings and potential psychosis.
• Nasal passage damage from snorting.

Amphetamine dependence can develop quickly, especially when used regularly to stay awake, enhance performance, or manage low mood.

Prescription stimulants: Not all addiction comes from illegal drugs.

Not all stimulant addiction stems from illicit drug use. Prescription stimulant dependency is a growing concern, particularly amongst individuals taking medications for conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are effective when used as prescribed, but misuse — through overuse, diversion, or use without a prescription — can lead to dependency and addiction. The boundary between therapeutic use and problematic use can become blurred, particularly amongst students, professionals, and individuals with co-occurring disorders.

For more on this topic, see our blog: Prescription stimulants: The fine line between ADHD treatment and misuse.

Residential rehab: why it works.

For individuals facing stimulant addiction — whether to cocaine, amphetamines, or prescription medication — residential rehabilitation offers the most comprehensive and structured path to recovery. At Ibiza Calm, our residential programme allows clients to step away from daily stressors and triggers, providing the space and support needed to heal.

Key benefits of residential rehab:

• Medically supervised detox: While stimulant withdrawal is primarily psychological, symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, depression, and insomnia can be severe. In some cases, individuals experience suicidal thoughts or psychosis, requiring close clinical oversight.
• Intensive therapy: Clients engage in a variety of evidence-based therapies, including individual counselling, group work, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care.
• Supportive environment: Being surrounded by peers and professionals with lived or clinical experience creates a nurturing and non-judgemental space for recovery.
• Holistic healing: We integrate yoga, mindfulness, nutrition, and complementary therapies into our approach to address the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.

Evidence-based psychological therapies.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

CBT remains one of the most effective psychological treatments for stimulant use disorders. It helps individuals identify and reframe the negative thought patterns that drive substance use. CBT is particularly beneficial in preventing relapse and managing cravings.

A review in Addiction (2018) highlighted CBT’s effectiveness in reducing cocaine use over the long term, while similar results have been seen in methamphetamine and amphetamine users.

Contingency management (CM).

Contingency management involves rewarding individuals for positive behaviours such as abstinence and treatment participation. Though sometimes controversial due to perceived cost, CM has shown strong results in reducing stimulant use, particularly in the early stages of recovery.

The Matrix Model.

Originally developed for stimulant users in the United States, the Matrix Model combines CBT, 12-step facilitation, family education, drug testing, and motivational interviewing in a highly structured programme. It has been especially effective in supporting methamphetamine recovery and is gaining international recognition.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

TMS is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique increasingly used to treat addiction-related cravings. In a recent study done by Smart TMS, 83% of participants experienced at least a one-third reduction in cravings following two weeks of TMS therapy. Whilst not a standalone cure, TMS appears to be a safe and effective option for managing the powerful cravings associated with cocaine dependence, particularly when combined with therapies such as CBT, CM and peer support.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): A developing field.

Certain medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, or treat co-occurring disorders like depression and anxiety. Medication alone is not a cure, but when combined with psychological therapies, it can enhance outcomes for certain individuals.

Aftercare and long-term recovery.

Leaving rehab is only the beginning. Long-term recovery requires ongoing support, structure, and commitment. At Ibiza Calm, we help clients build robust aftercare plans that may include:

• Continued therapy (either in person or online).
• Attendance at peer support groups such as Cocaine Anonymous or SMART Recovery.
• Sober living environments, where applicable.
• Engagement in meaningful activities and healthy lifestyle habits.

Stimulant addiction – whether to powdered cocaine, crack, amphetamines, or prescription medications, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Though the substances may differ, the cycle of craving, use, and crash is universal, and deeply damaging.

The good news is that recovery is entirely possible. Through evidence-based treatment, a compassionate support system, and a structured, residential setting, individuals can reclaim their health and rebuild their lives.

At Ibiza Calm, we are committed to walking beside each client on their journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with stimulant addiction, reach out to us. Help is here – and hope is always possible.