Most people experiment with drugs or alcohol at some point in their lives. For many, this can be a way to develop body autonomy, rebel, fit into social groups, or self-soothe for stress, trauma, and undiagnosed mood disorders. While some drugs may be more harmful than others, addiction depends on many factors in a person’s life. PCP is a common drug that can be detrimental to the developing brain. Luckily, drug addiction treatment programs can help young adults and their families cope with addiction and co-occurring disorders and provide coping mechanisms for daily stress.
If you or a loved one is using PCP, know you are not alone. The team at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Our North Carolina-based programs help men ages 18-30 recover from addiction and co-occurring disorders. With a focus on ecotherapy and evidence-based therapies for holistic healing, Red Oak Recovery® is here to help. Reach our staff now at 866.457.7590 to learn more about our program.
What Is Phencyclidine or PCP?
PCP, or phencyclidine, is a synthetic drug initially developed as an anesthetic. The government stopped using PCP and outlawed it in the mid-1960s because of its dangerous side effects. The white powder dissolves in liquid and has a bitter taste. In addition, many people inject PCP. Also sold in pill, tablet, or capsule form, PCP is most commonly swallowed, crushed, and snorted.
PCP Effects on the Brain
Like other drugs, PCP affects a person’s brain. Depending on the dose and how PCP is taken, it can distort memory and cognition and change how people experience emotions. It can cause out-of-body experiences, give a false sense of power, strength, and security, as well as cause hallucinations. These cognitive effects can lead to dangerous risk-taking behavior, especially in young adults.
Low doses may feel like drunkenness, while higher doses can cause delusions similar to schizophrenia. PCP can worsen symptoms and mental illness for those living with mood disorders. Those high on PCP can engage in bizarre, often violent behavior.
PCP can also cause these side effects:
- Numbness and tingling
- Drooling
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination
- Profuse sweating
- Involuntary eye movement
- Confusion and disassociation
- Nausea and vomiting
As a sedative, PCP can cause comas and even death, especially when mixed with alcohol. An addiction treatment program is the safest, most effective way to avoid PCP brain damage, coma, and death. PCP users can experience persistent flashbacks, memory problems, and hallucinations similar to the effects of PTSD. These persistent symptoms can worsen mood disorders and unresolved trauma.
Start Addiction Treatment for PCP or Other Drugs In North Carolina Today
A young person’s brain is still developing. Because of this, drugs like PCP can be detrimental to their cognitive development. If a young man in your life is showing signs of PCP use, the team at Red Oak Recovery® can help. Our program helps men ages 18-30 recover in the beautiful North Carolina wilderness. We help young men get to the root of PCP use and addiction with dual diagnosis treatment. Through a combination of ecotherapy and traditional behavioral therapies, men at Red Oak Recovery® receive the holistic support they need to recover. Our comprehensive programs include group and family therapy to help bring loved ones together. Men at Red Oak Recovery® build resilience, find their passions, and disconnect from social pressures through nature.
Learn More About Holistic Addiction Treatment for PCP at Red Oak Recovery® Today
While PCP may be less common than other illicit drugs, it’s still found in high school and college communities. If a young man you know is using PCP, don’t wait. Call Red Oak Recovery® today. Reach our staff now at 866.457.7590 to learn more about our programs and to get started today.
