When someone you care about is struggling with cocaine use, finding the right support can make all the difference. Cocaine addiction treatment isn’t just about stopping drug use—it’s about giving your loved one the tools to rebuild a fulfilling, connected life. At The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, we provide a full spectrum of services to meet people where they are in their recovery journey. From personalized residential care to flexible outpatient options, our programs are built to support lasting healing.

We are here to help. If someone you love is facing the effects of cocaine use, including rare complications like cocaine washout syndrome (CWS), this could be the moment to take the first step. Our team at The Arbor is ready to walk alongside you.

What is cocaine washout syndrome?

CWS is a rare but serious complication that can occur after prolonged cocaine use. It’s most often seen in clinical settings and is characterized by a sudden period of profound fatigue, lethargy, and sometimes even a brief coma-like state.¹ The condition can be potentially fatal and is believed to be caused by the depletion of neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and norepinephrine, following intense and extended cocaine use.

Because this syndrome is so rare, family members and loved ones typically won’t recognize it on their own. But what you might notice are the lingering mental and physical signs of cocaine misuse: emotional withdrawal, increased sleep, mood swings, and confusion. These signs, even without a formal diagnosis of washout syndrome, indicate that professional help is urgently needed.

The risks of prolonged cocaine use

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that alters brain chemistry, and its effects accumulate over time. Chronic use can lead to a wide range of physical and mental health consequences, including:

• Persistent anxiety, paranoia, and depression
• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
• Disruption of sleep cycles and appetite
• Higher likelihood of co-occurring mental health conditions

According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), among Americans aged 12 or older in 2023, 1.8% or 5 million people used cocaine in the year before—with rates climbing among young adults aged 18 to 25.² The prolonged use of cocaine can significantly increase the likelihood of developing both medical complications and psychological challenges, making timely professional intervention essential.

Understanding withdrawal: symptoms and timeline

Cocaine withdrawal is often misunderstood because it doesn’t produce the same physical symptoms as substances like opioids or alcohol. Instead, the withdrawal phase involves psychological and emotional symptoms that can feel overwhelming, such as:

• Crashing fatigue: A sudden drop in energy and mood
• Depressive symptoms: Hopelessness, apathy, and disinterest in life
• Restlessness and agitation: Difficulty sitting still or feeling at peace
• Anxiety: Persistent worry or dread
• Increased appetite: Especially in the early withdrawal stages

These symptoms typically begin within hours after the last use and can last for days or even weeks, depending on the severity of addiction. For some, the “washout” phase can lead to sleep for 24–48 hours or more, followed by emotional numbness. This is where professional cocaine addiction treatment becomes a lifeline.

Treatment options at The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare

At The Arbor, we understand that recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer both residential and outpatient options so clients can access the level of support that fits their needs and their lives. Every treatment plan is customized, compassionate, and created to nurture healing in both body and mind.

Here are the primary program types we offer:

• Residential addiction treatment: Ideal for those experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring conditions. Clients live on our beautiful campus in Texas, receiving round-the-clock medical care, therapy, and support.
• Outpatient addiction treatment: A flexible option that allows clients to attend therapy and groups during the day and return home afterward. This is a good fit for people with milder symptoms or those transitioning out of residential care.

We also offer gender-specific programs, family therapy workshops, and a range of experiential therapies such as equine therapy, yoga, and personal wellness coaching.

Cocaine washout syndrome: what to expect in treatment

Although CWS itself is rare, the symptoms of fatigue, depression, and cognitive dullness following heavy cocaine use are very common. During treatment, these symptoms are addressed with a thoughtful, multi-layered approach:

• Medical supervision to monitor and respond to any physiological changes
• Dual diagnosis care to address co-occurring mental health concerns
• Individual therapy to process past experiences and reframe thought patterns
• Group therapy for peer connection and support
• Nutritional support and wellness coaching to help restore physical balance

Recovery takes time. But with patience and support, people begin to feel more like themselves again—regaining energy, clarity, and a sense of purpose.

What family members can do

Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction can be heartbreaking. It’s natural to feel helpless or unsure of what to do. The most powerful action you can take is to encourage them to seek treatment—and to get involved yourself.

At The Arbor, we welcome family participation through education, therapy, and ongoing support. Recovery is not a solo process. When families learn to support healthy boundaries and communication, outcomes improve dramatically.

Begin the journey to wellness with The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare

Your loved one doesn’t have to face cocaine addiction alone. Whether they are experiencing symptoms of cocaine washout syndrome or are simply exhausted from the cycle of use, there is help and hope waiting. The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare offers more than rehab—we offer a path forward, rooted in compassion, connection, and lifelong healing.

Call The Arbor today at 844.413.2690 or fill out our online form to start the conversation. You have what it takes to support someone you care about through this. Let us help guide the way.

Footnotes:

1. The American College of Chest Physicians. “Cocaine Washout Syndrome: A Rare Case Presentation With Refractory Shock.” Accessed June 5 2025.
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.” Accessed June 5 2025.