Is PCP Addictive?
The iconic English philosopher and psychologist, Herbert Spencer, famously said, “There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance – that principle is contempt prior to investigation.” This “contempt prior to investigation” is what stops many people from getting the addiction help that they need. Denial is also a major factor in why one does not get the proper help that they need. This includes people who ask the question, “Is PCP addictive?” as a means of talking themselves out of getting help.
The Disease of Addiction
Addiction is more prevalent than many people may realize. It affects millions of people both in the U.S. and around the world.
Many people are also unsure about how to categorize addiction. This is because there have long been stigmas and misconceptions surrounding addiction. This includes the belief that addiction is some type of moral failing or “choice.” Now, this is simply untrue. Addiction is a disease. In fact, addiction has more in common with other chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes than it does with a “choice.” This includes PCP.
Is PCP Addictive?
Now before asking the question, “Is PCP addictive?” It is important to understand what PCP specifically is. According to the California Journal of Emergency Medicine, “Phencyclidine (PCP, ‘angel dust’) is an infamous hallucinogenic sought for its ability to induce the illusion of euphoria, omnipotence, superhuman strength, and social and sexual prowess. The acronym PCP stems from its organic name 1-(1-phenylcyclohexyl) piperidine, which alludes to its relatively simple production from the arylcyclohexylamine piperidine. More than 60 designer analogs more toxic than PCP, but able to escape clinical detection, were common before the sale of piperidine and its derivatives became illegal in the United States in 1978.
So, back to the question, “Is PCP addictive?” The answer is “yes.” However, there is a caveat. Many people argue that PCP is not physically addictive (though the debate is ongoing). However, it is widely agreed upon that PCP is mentally and emotionally addictive. This is because the individual becomes attached to the feeling PCP gives them rather than the traditional physical “pull” of addiction.
Symptoms of PCP Addiction
Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of PCP addiction is critical. While they often vary based on the individual, there are some more universal signs. The following are some of the signs and symptoms of PCP addiction:
- Seeming out of touch with reality
- Having trouble with motor skills
- Appearing jittery, anxious, and nervous
- Having trouble with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Isolating away from family and close friends
- Experiencing trouble at work or school
- Loss of appetite and a lack of care regarding physical appearance and wellbeing
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Appearing physically stronger than normal
- Causing harm to oneself or others
- Having suicidal ideations
Now, many people can minimize PCP addiction. However, as one can see, these signs and symptoms are significant and can be deadly. This is why reaching out for professional help as soon as possible is vital. Doing so could mean the difference between experiencing short-term side effects and long-term consequences.
Treatment for PCP Addiction
The good news about PCP addiction is that there are many effective modalities for recovery. The key is to find the right recovery center that offers clear and effective PCP addiction treatment.
The fact of the matter is that the recovery industry is now worth billions of dollars. This also means that there are many bad actors who care more about their financial bottom line than they do about their client’s well-being. These are also the recovery centers that only offer “one-note” treatment plans that don’t focus on the individual.
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we find that this type of treatment rarely works. This is why we take a multi-angled approach that includes experiential therapies like art therapy, holistic healing methods like yoga therapy, and psychotherapies like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Recovering With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
CBT can be particularly helpful because it gets to the underlying issues of PCP addiction. These underlying issues are often much more critical to address than simply the PCP itself. It is not the drug as much as why one picks up the drug in the first place.
CBT helps one see the negative way that they have long been viewing themselves and the world around them. Once they see this, they can then begin to make the much-needed shift in thinking that will eventually lead to a change in negative actions.
Recovering With The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive with a focus on the future.
Recovery from PCP addiction is possible. There is hope. We can help.
Many people are under the impression that PCP is not addictive. This is simply not the case. PCP can be extremely psychologically addictive. The good news is there are many effective ways to recover from a PCP addiction. This includes means, methods, and modalities like psychotherapy, experiential therapy, and holistic healing. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of mental illness, addiction, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. To begin your healing journey complete this short form or call The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
