Flakka is a risky synthetic stimulant that’s recently taken over the streets because it’s so affordable. Its effects are similar to meth. So a person might experience hyperactivity and aggression. But it’s a human-made substance designed to be chemically identical to the African khat shrub. Because the drug takes a person through highs and lows as they use it, it’s just as important to know the signs of flakka withdrawal as it is to know the signs of flakka use.
If you suspect that someone you know is using flakka, it’s time to reach out to a flakka addiction treatment center for guidance.
Extreme Irritation & Anxiety
The symptoms of flakka withdrawal are diverse. First, look for out-of-character agitation. Even everyday activities may suddenly seem difficult, frustrating, and anxiety-provoking if your loved one is showing signs of flakka withdrawal.
The person exhibiting this behavior could be your child, a co-worker, an employee, a family member, or a friend. In any case, spotting these symptoms will help you get this person the help they need.
Depression & Mood Swings
People who have clinical depression lose interest in activities they once loved. They often feel a mental fog of sadness and anger that makes it hard to think straight, go to work, attend to hygiene, or do well in school. But this sign may be accompanied by extreme mood changes. Your family member or friend may be remorseful and crying one minute and then turn angry and violent the next.
Like many drugs, flakka alters the chemical and hormonal balances in the brain, making it difficult to self-regulate emotions and thoughts. Most long-time users of meth, heroin, or cocaine stay far away from flakka because of its unpredictable effects. It’s very easy to overdose, which could turn deadly.
Heart Arrhythmia
This one may not be visible to you. But the person experiencing symptoms of flakka withdrawal will feel it. The heart beats in erratic patterns, causing incredible strain on the heart as well as the blood vessels. This could lead to a stroke, heart attack, or aneurysm (bulging blood vessel that may burst).
Given the danger, the good news is that flakka use is still relatively rare among teens. Around one percent of teens have tried it, compared to five to 10 percent experimenting with other drugs. But because it’s rare, parents may be less likely to recognize the symptoms of flakka withdrawal.
Suicidal Thoughts and Actions
As flakka leaves the system, dark thoughts may take over. The signs of flakka withdrawal include dwelling on suicide. This focus could turn to obsession and considering ways to do it. That obsession may lead to action.
Family and friends must recognize the signs of flakka withdrawal and the possibility of suicidal tendencies.
Seizures
Your loved one may also have seizures. If not restrained when the seizure occurs, the convulsion could cause extreme bodily damage like a concussion, lacerations, and internal bleeding from falls.
What To Do If You Spot Signs of Flakka Withdrawal
If you think someone you care about may be using Flakka or another stimulant like meth or cocaine, it’s time to consult an addictions professional. Oceanfront Recovery offers loved ones and professionals the support they need to overcome flakka addiction. In our residential treatment facility and we provide evidence-based therapies and complementary treatments programs such as:
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program
- Family Therapy Program
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
- EMDR Therapy Program
If you or someone you know is struggling with flakka abuse, Oceanfront Recovery’s holistic and personalized approach to healing can help. Call us at 877.296.7477 to learn more about our flakka treatment program.
