Have you ever heard of a “basehead”? Initially, the odds are very slim that you have. However, the chances are relatively high that you have heard of “freebasing.” As you may have guessed, these two terms ultimately refer (in some way) to the practice of using crack cocaine. Simply put, “freebasing” takes place when a person uses the smokable variety of cocaine, and a “basehead” is a person who takes part in this process. However, did you know that crack cocaine originally rose to unfortunate popularity after cocaine addicts grew fearful of infected needles (carrying hepatitis, HIV, and other infections? As a result of their toils, people started producing a crystallized variety called crack. Let’s take a closer look about the activities of “baseheads” and find out some more information.
A String of Ups and Downs
Ultimately, the daily activities of a basehead can be compared to a roller coaster ride. After consuming crack cocaine, the users will feel a rush of euphoria (as if they are soaring down the tracks) before the feeling fades a few minutes later (rounding a bend). In fact, the side effects begin to dwindle much faster if the drug is smoked, versus snorting or injection. Here are some of the experiences baseheads will experience:
- Exhaustion
- Depression, anxiety, panic attacks
- Sensitivity to stimuli like sound and light
- Irritability
- Extreme hunger
Compulsive Need for Highs
Much like a person who gets sick on a roller coaster, the crack addict will start to feel extremely sick when the drug begins to leave their system. Ultimately, they will consume more of the drug to maintain their happiness and energy. The process of smoking freebase cocaine (crack) is much more dangerous than snorting. In fact, men and women who smoke crack will report drug problems in the window of 6 months, in contrast to those who snort the drug (who report problems after 2 years). “Basehead” is one of 2,300 forms of street slang used to reference a crack addict, as indicated by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.
Seeking Treatment for Crack Cocaine Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.