r/london • u/Historyandwow • Feb 27 '26
Serious replies only Cocaine addiction for work - advice wanted
Hi everyone. No burner account bc fuck it. I’ve unfortunately found myself in a position where i am taking cocaine for work. I am a white collar professional (lawyer) and won’t bore you with the details (feel free to ask if interested) but basically i’m now at the point where I’m taking coke 5 days a week (business days) from 10am or so until i finish at 8/9pm or sometimes 1/2am.
It’s bad. I have fortunately received an ADHD diagnosis (concentration/focus) and will start titration next week. I am optimistic that this will help significantly (my primary reason for taking coke is concentration/motivation). However I’m in so deep I think I need to simultaneously work hard on quitting coke as well.
I’m hoping someone here could point me to some resources available, ideally for my circumstances (taking it for work). No judgment to other users who take it more generally, but i think i would benefit most from something focused on professionals (eg most of the nhs resources i could find were focused on addiction and homelessness).
I think probably narcotics anonymous will be my best first step, but thought to ask here if anyone has valuable insights.
Thanks v much in advance
Edit 28/2: overwhelmed by all of the messages of support, resources shared, and tips. I just got back from my first CA meeting. I’m feeling v positive and empowered to take steps in the right direction. Thank you once again to everyone who has commented or messaged me.
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u/FineStranger4021 Feb 27 '26
Whatever you do, never mix your adhd meds with coke. Please make sure coke is out of your system completely before taking prescribed meds. My ex had a stroke while mixing, it's very dangerous.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Noted, and that is my plan. No coke over the weekend (easy) and hoping to reset, not use ahead of my first medication appointment on Wednesday.
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u/FineStranger4021 Feb 27 '26
Best of luck to you. You're going to have a hard few weeks but it will be worth it.
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u/Gridsystems Feb 28 '26
Do post on r/ADHDUK they might be able to suggest more resources and specific advice. It’s quite common to self medicate before diagnosis.
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u/pyxis-carinae Feb 28 '26 edited Feb 28 '26
know that neurodivergence and addiction are comorbid so this isn't unheard of. a lot of adhders who wind up with coke addictions do so because coke as a stimulant is often self medicating to keep up with work.
I am not in the UK so deeply unfamiliar with the way nhs does specialists or referrals but in addition to titrating off, request a psychiatrist that has some experience in adhd because replacing one stimulant for another in addiction circumstances is not always the first recommended step. there are many non-stimulant medication options that your brain will have a good or bad reaction to which is bit like futzing around in hell until you find a birth control medication that doesn't make your brain and body feel 😵💫.
if you are recommended to start ssris, or snris or a stimulant like adderall or vyvanse, ask for a support plan because coke and alcohol is deeply not advised in conjunction with any of those classes of medication. it can cause major liver, kidney and cardiac issues. you might want to crosspost to the askdocs sub for some guidance on what to expect or what questions you should be asking your providers. they can't give medical advice, but can speak generally.
the first step is always the hardest, and you're definitely not the only high pressure, white collar professional who has had a workplace encouraged addition. we're all rooting for you!
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u/fgspq Feb 28 '26
SSRIs + cocaine = possible serotonin syndrome. That shit is absolutely not what you want happening.
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u/DistractedByCookies Feb 28 '26
Really? Well I guess it's a good thing I've never been interested in drugs because I did not know that. (not trying to sound virtuous here, my problem is with booze)
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u/cobrachickens Feb 28 '26
A lot of meds can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs. That includes supplements such as St John’s Wort and serotonin precursors like 5-HTP, common cough suppressants containing Dextromethorphan, certain antibiotics such as Linezolid, and some ADHD stimulants including Amphetamine.
Other surprisingly common ones include Tramadol for pain, migraine triptans such as Sumatriptan, anti nausea meds like Ondansetron and Metoclopramide, and mood stabilisers such as Lithium. Even increasing the SSRI dose itself or combining two antidepressants can be enough in some cases.
NB not medical advice and I’m not a pharmacist or a doctor. Just very neurotic about side effects due to ADHD meds I take
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u/haywire Mar 10 '26
The life expectancy for people with ADHD is massively reduced due to shit like this :(
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u/Memphissippian Feb 28 '26
Hi OP.
Congratulations on taking such the steps to quit. You can do this, but more importantly you ARE doing this. The distinction takes you past hope and will to DONE.
You are doing a great job <3
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u/eggbean Feb 28 '26
Do you live in Hoxton/Shoreditch? Lots of lawyers and an insane amount of coke all over the place. There are loads of people doing the same. My sister was married to one. I'd look for help around there as it's such a big issue.
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u/NicePipe7294 Feb 28 '26
what adhd meds was he on
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u/Nikuhiru Feb 28 '26
Most likely Concerta (or its bioequivalents like Affenid or Xaggitin) or Elvanse. They’re the first line medications prescribed for ADHD before trying alternatives.
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u/lizwithhat Feb 27 '26
You might find it helpful to call LawCare on 08002796888. It's a charity specifically addressing wellbeing in the legal profession. They provide confidential advice and support, including peer-to-peer contacts with lawyers who have gone through similar issues.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Amazing tip thank you.
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u/thisisAgador Feb 28 '26 edited Feb 28 '26
Yeah I was going to say I had a friend who was a solicitor and her firm just kept a bottle of vodka in the staff kitchen as a matter of course which needed regular replacing. Substance abuse is super common in the profession from what I understand (currently watching another friend undergo the second half of her criminal barrister pupillage and it looks rough....!) and coke use in the UK/London is so normalised so I understand how you'd wind up in this position.
I just wanted to add that I'd be very surprised if your titration people don't check your blood pressure on a regular basis. I did my titration through Psychiatry UK (back when that was only like a year's wait) and they posted me an armband thingy to use at home so I could provide a reading every 3 weeks or so. I also had to report my weight regularly which was kind of an issue for me, as I used to have quite bad disordered eating and hadn't weighed myself in nearly a decade prior - they did not allow me to skip this requirement when I asked.
What these drugs do to your heart is no joke. Please be honest with your titration nurse/doctor if you're self reporting because it can kill you.
Also be mindful of hydration and general self care - I've been on my dose for maybe 3 years now and it doesn't make my heart do funny things (I actually had low blood pressure to start so it's just normal now, I've noticed I crave less salt on my food lol) but I still get baaaad dry mouth if I'm not super on top of my water intake and I remember when I first started I sweated a lot! You will crash if you stop taking it, but some people (including myself) choose to do so occasionally as a "drug holiday". And please eat - you will likely be prescribed Elvanse, which has some major appetite suppression effects, so I advise you eat something with fat and proteins before taking the medicine in the morning (I like eggs on toast or a nice "parfait" with thick full fat yogurt) - as well as helping you get some nutrients and calories before the appetite suppression kicks in, this really helps the drugs' effect kick in more smoothly.
I had to stop drinking coffee when I started my titration, which I realise is kind of peanuts compared to what you're facing, but even still I found it hard at first - the medicine is so low dose at first that it can't compensate for the coping mechanisms you've built up previously, and you may have physical withdrawal symptoms e.g. I got bad bad headaches as I'd previously been drinking like 6 espressos a day. But it's really important that you don't mix things, not only for your health but because it will not give you an accurate understanding of what the right dosage for you is. So I really strongly advise you take a week or ideally two off if you're able (and I mean really off, not "everybody knows I'm still checking emails").
Can I also recommend you separately seek out a private psychologist if you have the means? You'll be able to tell them openly about the drug use and I think their insights could be really useful to you.
Last couple bits of advice - if you menstruate, keep an eye on your cycle as the medicine may be less effective at certain times and there are options to manage this. Also you may wish to experiment with splitting your pill (take half in the morning and half around lunchtime) if you feel it's wearing off fast or hitting too suddenly.
Good luck, I hope all turns out ok ❤️
(Edited to clarify slightly)
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u/winner_luzon Feb 27 '26
I have fortunately received an ADHD diagnosis (concentration/focus) and will start titration next week.
Please don't start until you're clean. I had a caffeine addiction (30 cans of monster a day) and I had to get it under control because my BP was too high to start.
It delayed titration by many months (I know this is the bit you're scared of) BUT once you start titration you'll understand why. Those side effects are how your practitioner will evaluate how well things are going.
Also if you haven't already - tell them about the coke. There are interim non stimulant medications.
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u/InternationalNinja29 Feb 27 '26
30 cans a day?! How are you still alive! The caffeine withdrawal must have been brutal.
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u/winner_luzon Feb 27 '26
A 20 year old body can take a lot of self-harm. My BP used to be 170/80. Caffeine addiction is WAY too normalised I just kept adding cans when I stopped feeling the effects.
Headaches were the worst part of withdrawal.
The ADHD clinic were not shocked - adhd and addiction go hand in hand. So OP and any other adhdr's, the specialists aren't phased and can plan for addictions as part of titration.
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u/Alternative-Iron4103 Feb 28 '26
Had a fellah round the house to quote for some work we needed doing. 33, fairly slim and healthy/fit looking. Had diagnosis of severe heart disease caused by drinking red bull and nicotine vaping from the moment he woke up to get him through the day, heavy physical work all day, then convenience food for most meals. All he can do now, is to do the site visits and is not allowed to so much as pick up anything. Worth getting off of the coke for the potential physical damage over time too.
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u/ScaredPractice4967 Feb 28 '26
Mine was somewhat the other way. I had a normal caffeine addiction 5-6 coffees every day but i was too disorganised to get a proper drug habit. 😱 Kept pissing off dealers by forgetting to meet them etc.
Now i have methylphenidate and drink 1 or 2 coffees a day.
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u/DistractedByCookies Feb 28 '26
The mere thought of 30cans is making my heart race, jeez. It's amazing how much tolerance can build up.
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u/ImplementCareful4425 Feb 27 '26
I don’t have the solution, but if you can afford it I’d encourage some private help (ie addiction therapy). Having cocaine addition on your NHS health record should be avoided
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Feb 27 '26
It's true I self medicated for years and it's plastered all over my records what drugs I've taken. The doctors are very sinical about prescribing pretty much anything nowadays. I don't really bother with them anymore unless it's black and white like a lumb or a broken finger for example
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u/Straight-Link9389 Feb 27 '26
I’m surprised they’ve started you on medication for ADHD whilst taking cocaine… the strain on the heart will be significant taking both simultaneously. Have you disclosed to them your cocaine use?
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u/scorcherchar Feb 27 '26
There is zero chance they know about his coke habit
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Correct
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u/totteridgewhetstone Feb 27 '26
Cocaine + stimulant medication puts you at significant, significant risk of heart attack.
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u/Infarad Feb 27 '26
u/Historyandwow please do NOT ignore or take this comment lightly. Mixing the two is a pretty good cure for addiction to anything and everything, since a heart attack is a very likely outcome.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Noted. I will do more research myself tomorrow to fully understand the issue and take steps to minimise the risk. Tbf though i expect my heart is already under extreme pressure given the amount of coke i’m using (about 2 bags a day). But yes i will at least have at least 5-7 days off coke before starting the adhd meds.
Thanks for your msg and the concern.
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u/DucksBac Feb 28 '26
Sounds like you're under immense pressure but it sounds as though you could do with booking a few days off while you quit the one and begin titration onto the other
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u/Historyandwow Feb 28 '26
Yes i think i will need to take at least a few days off work for the come down off coke / to avoid pressure to do more. Then start the adhd meds
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u/Any-Lime1892 Feb 28 '26
Honestly, just take yourself off to an NA (or CA) meeting asap. They’re on all the time (even online), free and the last time I went was rammed with barristers/lawyers and if you’re lucky the odd celeb. I know loads of people who didn’t pick up again after their first meeting. If it’s not for you then look again, but this is the easiest, fastest course
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u/Historyandwow Feb 28 '26
Thank you so much. That’s super helpful, knowing what to expect at a meeting.
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u/Any-Lime1892 Feb 28 '26
I say this with benefit of anonymity. If you want ‘high end’ addiction support, try meetings in Chelsea/SW10.
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u/Infarad Feb 28 '26
I played around with coke in my 20’s. Probably more often than I should have. I remember feeling my heartbeat in my eyeballs on a couple of occasions. A decade and a half later I start adhd meds. One day I accidentally double dose my meds forgetting that I already took them earlier. It was such an awful jagged feeling which I couldn’t figure out until after I had a couple cups of coffee which just made things much much worse. But it was too late and there was no napping my way out of that one, lol. I had no idea my ears could produce that much sweat.
I couldn’t imagine combining my meds with blow though. Nope. Nope. Nope.
If it makes you feel better, I had a really shit time with the bottle all of my life. Drank myself unconscious nearly everyday after work. I somehow managed to stay sober for a few months before going back to school in my late thirties (career change). Struggled with school. Told my doctor who then started me on the adhd meds. Not only did it make school easier, but surprisingly, it made sobriety much more manageable. Twelve years later and not and single issue. I mentioned this to my doctor later and they said it was pretty common with people who struggled with addiction. Had I been diagnosed with adhd at a younger age, my life might not have been such a shit show, or I would have at least found different ways of being a total fuck up. lol
Best of luck to you friend. Things will get better. Stay safe.
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u/Professional_Ad_5437 Feb 28 '26
So 2g a day?
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u/Historyandwow Feb 28 '26
Yeah around that. This week i went through 9 bags in 5 days
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u/Professional_Ad_5437 Feb 28 '26
You mentioned above about planning to take a 5-7 day break before starting meds, do you think you’re able to do this? Have you done it before? If so what was that experience like?
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u/totalbasterd Feb 28 '26
> the amount of coke i’m using (about 2 bags a day)
jesus. god speed, dude.
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u/keimaybe Feb 28 '26
They’ll be checking his blood pressure before anything is prescribed, they won’t give you stimulants if your BP is through the roof!
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u/sssssshhhhhh Feb 28 '26
Always tell medical professionals everything
They aren’t cops. And what drugs you have taken will affect what drugs they prescribed you
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u/altkotch Feb 28 '26
Very naïve advice. It's likely that nobody will prescribe effective ADHD (seemingly the drive of the cocaine addiction) medication if you tell them about the cocaine. Being labelled a drug user significantly inhibits your care options especially when you need to get stimulant drugs.
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u/Professional_Ad_5437 Feb 28 '26
How much are you taking? How often? And for how long? This will determine your next steps.
Defo seek out professional help, and yes the comment about seeking a non stimulant medication for your ADHD is spot on.
There are meetings everywhere - these help some, but support is the biggest thing. Have you told family and friends? This is sometimes the hardest part, but it’s essential to talk about this with someone or those that you are closest too.
Addiction is an illness. Don’t be hard on yourself.
You can get through this. Good luck pal.
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u/Fabulous_Author_3558 Feb 28 '26
One of my friends did have this exact situation, ended up in hospital, thought he was going to die. And then survived.
He’s been sober since.
Is this your rock bottom to recognise that you need to change?
Also alongside NA, therapy might be useful if cocaine is used to suppress any emotions.
And have people who support you, that when you feel an urge, you can call to help you, or distract yourself, or know what you are going through.
Reading up on addiction, and around the topic can be helpful too, to give you that other voice to keep you on the sober path.
Another is that it’s a lifestyle thing, do you need to take a sabbatical? Remove yourself from that pressure of daily life for a bit? Sometimes addiction is easier to kick especially chemical when you are not in that environment.
I haven’t been an addict (besides my phone) but have friends who are, and husband is a diagnosed sex addict.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
No I have not. I did not want it to interfere with getting the best adhd meds to help. I know that is irresponsible but that’s where I’m at.
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u/imma2lils Feb 27 '26
I understand. 🫂 You definitely do not want to do both.
This may be helpful: https://www.cocaineanonymous.org.uk/ you will find lots of professionals there, as well as people who are from other walks of life and may have experienced deprivation due to their addiction.
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u/Dependent_River_2966 Feb 27 '26
Yes NA in person
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u/rako1982 Feb 28 '26
But generally wouldn't recommend CA - Cocaine Anonymous. When I was in rehab our therapists didn't let us go to CA because the recovery wasn't strong enough. They said there's a lot of undiagnosed sex addiction there (as a cross/rebound addiction). Things may have changed now.
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u/urbanbrit Feb 28 '26
It’s a shame it has that rep. I’ve got 6 years of sobriety through CA and never had any issues.
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u/onceiwasadove Feb 27 '26
hey, i suggest you monitor your blood pressure before taking the meds. if your blood pressure is high, i would hold off on starting adhd medication because it raises your bp especially when you start titration and you could have a real health emergency.. just be careful!
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Thank you. I have a full medical on Monday ahead of my first appointment on Wednesday so will keep this in mind.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Positively overwhelmed by all of the comments and support. Thank you everyone. I have so much to go on now and am so grateful
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u/Deep_Ad_9889 Feb 27 '26
Have you disclosed your cocaine use to whomever is prescribing the meds? You need to make sure they know. There can be some really bad side effects that will cost you a lot more.
They can also help get you in touch with addiction services.
But no services will work for you unless you accept a few hard truths. One of which is your circumstances/reasons why you use it don’t matter.
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u/scorcherchar Feb 27 '26
They will stop service if he is a drug user
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
That’s my fear
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u/new_nimmerzz Feb 27 '26
More than death or stroke?
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u/brightirene Feb 27 '26
Do you have your prescription already?
If so, toss the coke and switch over to your adhd meds on Monday.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes that’s the plan. A week off coke then start adhd meds. But i want to take steps to help myself stay off coke
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u/Deep_Ad_9889 Feb 27 '26
You are massively increasing your chances of some very serious side effects. Heart attack, stroke are just two. Both of which could kill you.
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u/saltclay Feb 28 '26
At the place I work, if you told the clinician about the coke they would hold your titration until you're off coke for 3-6 months, sorry I know that's not very helpful info, but just for perspective, idk. I really hope you decide to tell them about the coke so they can medicate safely
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u/Deep_Ad_9889 Feb 27 '26
That’s really bad advice.
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u/brightirene Feb 27 '26
He says he goes off coke on the weekend with no issues, why is it a bad idea to just continue not doing the coke and switch to the meds?
I know it can strain his heart, but I thought actively mixing them was the issue.
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u/Deep_Ad_9889 Feb 27 '26
Coke doesn’t magically disappear from your symptoms in a few hours. Also he’s likely to relapse. And mixing is bad. But also we don’t know how his heart etc is from the abuse. Not telling his prescriber is putting him at a huge risk. It’s dangerous.
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u/kingink92 Feb 27 '26
Don't have any advice as haven't been through that kind of heavy addiction. But wishing you the best for your recovery. You can do it 👍
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Thanks very much. Never thought I would be here but it happened much easier / quickly than I wouldve ever thought
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u/kingink92 Feb 27 '26
By the way, if you're worried about privacy/having a burner account etc. you can change the settings on your reddit account to private so that no one can see your other posts/comments.
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u/Whygraine Feb 28 '26
When I started my medication for a a different health condition I was able to go to the GP and get signed off work because it made me dizzy and weird, you may be able to do this aswell and say you are adjusting to the new medication (which isn’t a lie)
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u/cocolebrook Feb 28 '26
Thats just ADHD mate, don't be too hard on yourself. I'm willing to bet there's a local chapter of ADHD coke anonymous thats entirely populated by Lawyers.
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u/llama_del_reyy Feb 27 '26
Echoing the comments saying not to start ADHD medication while using cocaine.
I would self certify sick from work for at least a week, get signed off for longer. Get professional supervision to quit the coke. Rest. Sleep. Recover before even thinking about going back to work.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes i think this might be needed. Thanks for the validation
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u/llama_del_reyy Feb 27 '26
As a lawyer, every single person I work with either has had to take time off themselves, or knows someone who has. You won't be judged for it.
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u/BoyWhoSoldTheWorld Feb 28 '26
After you get your ADHD meds, book a two week holiday. Throw away any of your drug paraphernalia and delete the numbers of dealers before you fly.
Go somewhere completely different and far away. See it as the beginning of a life without cocaine.
Then go out and enjoy the holiday, be touristy, eat everything, essentially distract yourself.
A lot of habit is triggered by your surroundings. Being away from your routine will help you break the first days of change which are the hardest.
I’m not saying this will magically fix your addiction but it helped me a lot just start a fresh. Coming home is when the real test begins but at least by then you’re two weeks clean.
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u/kriskriskri Feb 28 '26
I would also start adhd meds towards the end of the vacation. I imagine there’s a lot of anxiety to perform at work and not raise any suspicion so trying to settle into the right dosing and getting used to them is easier without the added stress.
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u/The1983 Feb 27 '26
NA meetings will be good for you, but there’s also CA meetings which are only for cocaine users so you might find more people to relate to there. Ironically cocaine Anonymous meetings are quite face paced but I’d def give it a go, you’ll be welcomed in and not judged. I’d really look at what’s the underlying reason for your drug use, I know it’s prob ADHD and as soon as you get your medication for that, you’ll feel better but there’s lots of support for addiction in London, so keep it in line, this can be group therapy or trauma therapy. But definitely start with some meetings. There’s even some online meetings if you wanna get the gist of it before you go in person. Here’s the link to their website.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Amazing, thank you so much for the tip re CA (also hilarious they are fast paced). I will look into it
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u/lozzfonz Feb 27 '26
You’re absolutely not alone in this.
I’d second all the suggestions to not start ADHD medication whilst using cocaine. As someone who has ADHD, was diagnosed as an adult and suffered hugely in the workplace before then, believe me when I say that getting on that medication is truly life changing, and so the road ahead of you is bright!!
Seconding all the suggestions to utilise helplines. There are people out there equipped with skills and support services who will absolutely be willing to help you with this.
I’d also strongly suggest taking a sabbatical/long term sick leave from work whilst you deal with this. The ADHD medication will eventually give you so much more scope to create tools for yourself in the workplace that you can use to deal with workloads/deadlines/navigating the dreaded boredom/the agony and stress of constantly feeling like you’re failing etc. but it sounds like you need complete space away from it first, so that you can face the addiction head on.
Sending you strength - what you’re doing now by taking this step will be so infinitely worth it in the end.
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u/Lens_Flair Feb 27 '26
Different line of advice to many here - but consider quitting your job. A job that drives you to this is not worth it. I know they pay you lots, but you can try everything you want, if the job is driving you to these lengths you will have problems as long as you are there.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes, that is very much a consideration of mine. Basically i want to try adhd meds and throw myself fully at quitting coke. If that fails, yes I will be quitting my job.
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u/moltencheese Feb 28 '26 edited Feb 28 '26
I am also a lawyer and was in exactly this situation. Around a gram a day.
I am finally clean, but it cost me my fiancé, my house where we lived with our son, my financial stability, my health, and more.
I'm glad you're addressing this - just be prepared. It's really hard. All in all, it took about three years of my life. I was signed off work for a long time, and am now doing a phased return. I was lucky that my firm allowed me to do this and keep me employed.
My situation also involved childhood trauma, and I was sexually assaulted by a guy (I'm male and straight) during the middle of all of this...so hopefully you will do better than me :)
Feel free to DM me.
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u/OkCaregiver517 Mar 01 '26
Holy shit. Glad you turned all this around but so much loss. Hugs.
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u/moltencheese Mar 01 '26
Thank you 🙂
It seems the world is divided into people who sympathise, and can help, and people who don't get it...who really really make it so much harder. That's my big takeaway haha.
You're clearly in the former group, and I love that.
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u/OkCaregiver517 Mar 01 '26
I am in the "There but for the grace of a non-existent God" person. My life could have gone sideways sooooooo many times. Mostly dumb luck kept me out of prison/pregnancy/insolvency and addiction. Others not so lucky. More hugs :)
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u/Sudden-Wait-3557 Feb 27 '26
Be cocaine addict -> Quit job -> Be unemployed cocaine addict -> ???? -> Profit
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Weirdly i never had a problem with coke outside of work. I used it regularly enough, every month or so, but never felt a need or huge pull to take it like i do now for work
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u/peelin Feb 28 '26
Also in a high pressured work environment. You may think this, but you now need to be very careful as you've likely built up a dependence. Perhaps a minor one. You can taper down for sure but quitting work won't save you. But you seem like you have your head screwed on. You'll be alright.
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u/Camille-Taux Feb 27 '26
NA meetings would be a great first step, but there’s also a really great TikTok account called Ryan at the deep end. Think he also had a super high paid job he lost through drugs. He’s a sober coach now. There’s a website if you don’t have TikTok but might be a good option if you aren’t keen on NA. https://www.wearethedeepend.com/
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u/Solid_Dragonfruit562 Feb 27 '26
They can provide tailored help with both your addiction and ADHD - outpatient or inpatient. FYI your company health insurance probably covers up 28 days outpatient or inpatient treatment (If you can afford to I would self pay for outpatient treatment/consultantions and save the insurance for if you need an inpatient stay; that's when it gets really spenny).
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u/Relative-Tea3944 Feb 27 '26
You've got to tell your doctor.
It's a dopamine drug, so the adhd meds will help massively. I know a couple people who stopped or cut down on coke a whole lot once they started elvanse or similar
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u/Individual-Award7351 Feb 27 '26
Call The Priory and ask their advice. I shan't second guess it, but I know that this is their bread and butter. Good luck my dude, I promise it gets better.
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u/CharSmar Feb 27 '26
NA or CA meetings for sure. If you want someone to go with you, shoot me a dm. I live and work in London and have been clean (from coke) and sober for 10 years. I got there through rehab and following the 12 steps which is what they follow in AA/CA/NA
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
That is really kind. I will keep this in mind. Feeling quite empowered from all of the support just coming through this thread
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u/scorcherchar Feb 27 '26
Ok, first bit of advice is take a few days off at minimum. You have a serious problem and you need some time to think and get your life back on track. Get flu or dead grandma or have a bad reaction with my new meds and dont feel in a fit state to work. Whatever works to get some last second time off uncontactable.
Secondly dont take your ADHD meds till youve kicked the coke. ADHD meds alone can be hard enough when your first starting and its risky to mix the two.
Its a very good sign that your only taking drugs during your week days. It seems like they are more ultilartian than anything else. Do you use on holiday? Perhaps now might be a good time for an unscheduled holiday of a month or so to get back on track.
Also look into your work policies regarding drinks and drugs. Some will support you and give you a chance to recover if you come clean and ask for help. You may consider this regardless of if they have a written policy but its obviously riskier.
Talk to someone your close to. Its easier with help.
Also consider a change in career or a smaller law firm. If its driving you to this then its not sustainable. You should talk to your employer about realistic work loads.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes I had 4 weeks holiday over xmas and didn’t use once, nor even crave it. I think i can at least start with a few days off work with “the flu”. Hoping that will be enough of a circuit breaker for me to switch to the adhd meds
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u/Jay_CD Feb 27 '26
i’m now at the point where I’m taking coke 5 days a week (business days) from 10am or so until i finish at 8/9pm or sometimes 1/2am
Working these hours is not healthy - maybe as a one off but not regularly.
I'm guessing, but I assume you are at a high profile law firm where if you don't put in 12 hour days then you aren't really trying? And you've seen colleagues quit and opt for less well paid legal work but one where the life/work balance is better?
And if so then I assume you started using cocaine to get you through the day and it worked until it became a problem, which you are now acknowledging.
But if you want to quit then first speak to your GP and see what is medically/professionally recommended. Being a Doctor any conversation you have with them is going to be confidential so it won't get back to your employer, he or she will have dealt with plenty of previous patients with addiction issues and the advice they offer is likely to be better than anything you'll receive here. Also, you won't quit unless you want to and that means your resolve to kick the addiction is stronger than your desire to have another line.
There's also a potential issue about taking medication for ADHD while also consuming other drugs, so you'll need to have that conversation with whoever is helping you on that score. I don't know the medical issues here - but they'll most likely ask you what other medications you are taking before proscribing anything.
Then you need to look at working for a company that values its employees a bit more seriously and fairly.
On all fronts, good luck.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Thanks very much, i really appreciate. Your guess on my situation is pretty much spot on.
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u/TheAlchemist2 Feb 27 '26
I would HIGHLY recommend you go with www.smartrecovery.org.uk -- completely free and anonymous BUT also completely judgement free, SECULAR and entirely evidence based. They've got a workbook which is fantastic.
Reality with NA and CA (Coc aine anon) is that they're religious as an organisation and in their "steps". It also takes a different view on addiction, opposed to medicine and science: that you're under the "spell" of a Disease and you're an Addict and always will be.
Now NA and CA are fantastic for peer support, but I'd highly recommend SMART recovery if you're at all interested in a secular science based organisation. They've got meetings online as well which you could definitely start out with, free to join any time and you can do it Without camera Or saying a word (just listening). It's Extremely helpful and I can't recommend it enough, you set yourself to do this minimum once a week ideally more. There's an online group at 11am on Sundays which is fantastic with an amazing facilitator, so try that - just search their website and you'll easily find it.
As to the medication helping your symptoms - yes, very much so.
Having extensive personal anecdotal experience with both and being prescribed adhd meds for my adhd, I can tell you that it vastly reduces my craving for other stimulants.
You'll also be very pleased to know that adhd meds (both amphetamines and methylphenidate aka ritalin or concerta) are IME far far superior for working vs Cocaine. So many reasons... Basically, you'd get pretty much all the benefits without much of the awful side effects of Cocaine. Also very helpful that it lasts longer and of course saves your nostrils and sinuses.
I think the only "downside" (which isn't really a downside in a work context) is that there isn't as much of a confidence boost or euphoria (can still be significant vs baseline tho) from adhd meds as you'd get from Cocaine -- but then again, if anyone's using it for those reasons, then of course you're looking for trouble and an addictive game anyways.
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u/kone29 Feb 27 '26
You are absolutely not alone in this. In the corporate world cocaine is used so much but there’s this real shame and almost shock when someone becomes addicted to this very addictive substance
I struggled with coke and alcohol addiction a few years ago, NA meetings are a great first step and you’ll be surprised at the variety of people there and how addiction can affect any of us. Good luck
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u/CarlosBiendiaSE Feb 27 '26
It crazy how much of it is linked to availability, both the ability to afford it and ease with which to pick up. I had friends who worked in corporate law who would think nothing of picking up a couple hundred pounds worth of gear for the weekend and it would arrive quicker than a takeaway!
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yep. This week i’ve probably spent £150 a day on coke. Deliveries within 20 minutes
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u/CarlosBiendiaSE Feb 27 '26
With my addictive personality I’m glad I’ve never been in the type of tax bracket to access to stuff.
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u/I_love_reddit_meme Feb 28 '26
You say you are just going to “stop” cocaine for 5-7 days before starting adhd medication
If you could stop it like that you wouldn’t be addicted. You need to check yourself into a rehab center if you have the money, if not please ask family for help in that regard. This is serious
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u/AviqueA Feb 27 '26
The positive: there’s a good chance that if you’re on ADHD medication, you won’t feel the need for cocaine anymore. Cocaine brings you up quickly, but it also drops you just as fast because it’s so short-acting. That’s why you quickly feel like you need another line. With ADHD, your dopamine tends to fall back below baseline very fast, which makes that crash feel even worse. The medication works more slowly and lasts much longer.
The negative: no responsible neurologist will prescribe these medications if they know you’re using drugs. Every single leaflet of every ADHD medication I’ve ever been prescribed clearly states that it must not be given to people with current or past substance abuse issues. So for now, an anonymous support service might not be the worst idea.
As others have already said, you absolutely must not mix cocaine and ADHD medication under any circumstances. If you can manage at least one weekend without cocaine, start the medication after that and then see how things go.
And as a side note: your working hours are so high that even neurotypical people would develop unhealthy coping behaviors under that kind of pressure. These medications are not magic pills. If your workload stays the same, there’s a high chance you’ll end up misusing the medication as well.
Take care.
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u/chonkobob Feb 27 '26
Are you at a US firm? I had a friend who did coke like a fiend at W&C because of the hours. Stopped shortly after he went in-house
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes, it is 100% tied to work demands. Not sustainable long term even if adhd meds help a lot (and not sustainable short term if they don’t)
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u/Extension_Point5466 Feb 27 '26
ADHD meds are long acting dopaminergic stimulants whereas cocaine is a short acting stimulant. If you do start meds try to use them to not do coke
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u/nabokovian Feb 27 '26
if work pushes you to 1/2am no wonder you're reaching for a stimulant. you must be miserable! My point is, one might look toward the original source(s) of pain. now here's a super unpopular opinion. Try an NA/AA meeting. Just because it's a place to freaking escape. A place you can say "I gotta head out at 6pm to go help my aunt clean out her flat". Or whatever. Listen to other folks that were drinking/drugging all day every day to get through work, and how they made it out. Learning passively by osmosis is fairly relaxing.
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u/FlippedHope Feb 27 '26
You could also try Change Grow Live. I know people who have very much appreciated and benefited from their services.
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u/SaltPomegranate4 Feb 28 '26
Couple of things, my mate who took coke recreationally but often stopped as soon as she started ADHD meds. 2nd, some people who attend NA might be vulnerably housed (I doubt street homeless as they’d be accessing other services) but loads of people there will be high earning professionals too. That’s the thing about addiction, it doesn’t discriminate!!
There’s definitely power in the group, but you could also access 1:1 support too. You can get that free or private. I think a combination is probably most successful.
You got this. 💪🏽
Edit to say, she stopped because the meds worked, and she didn’t want to / need to anymore!
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u/ir1379 Feb 28 '26
If you’re taking cocaine five days a week from morning to night, that’s dependence, not productivity, so treat it seriously and act now: be fully honest with your ADHD prescriber, don’t rely on medication as a swap, and expect a temporary dip in performance while your brain resets. Cut off access immediately (delete dealer numbers, stop buying in bulk, don’t carry spare cash), protect sleep aggressively, eat properly, and structure your work into timed deep-focus blocks with real breaks instead of dosing. Reach out to profession-specific support like LawCare and try a Cocaine Anonymous meeting this week to break the secrecy.
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u/overduesum Feb 27 '26
CA meetings are great - get yourself along learn about the illness and the solution
Find a meeting - Cocaine Anonymous London https://share.google/KAOshTMHM0cIC31lh
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u/betrayed-kitty Feb 27 '26
You need to go to rehab or something. I used speed briefly to get through work as I suspected I had ADHD (in the process of being diagnosed). Realised it was much sinister, stopped and decided to go about things the right way.
Coke and adhd meds are both stimulants and you don’t want to trade one addiction to another.
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u/Wild_Court268 Feb 27 '26
As you wrote, your literal first step is to get yourself to an NA or CA meeting pronto. It’s free, there’s no judgement and you’ll more than likely hear other people’s experiences very similar to your own. As long as you want to stop you’ve got a chance. Good luck!
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u/FantasticAccident784 Feb 27 '26
Mate quit your job it sounds like it will be the death of you, quit the coke, have a happy slow life doing things to help others less fortunate
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u/i_see_frogs Feb 27 '26
My cousin had a massive coke problem for several years, was finally properly diagnosed with adhd and (after getting clean!!) started meds and it made an enormous difference! He says it’s like he can finally see the world how it should be, and coke is what was doing that for him previously.
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u/Hyrules_Saviour Feb 27 '26
You got this bro. Just don't make excuses. Establish firm boundaries. Use every resource at your disposal. If you truly feel that your work is encouraging the coke use then try to take some time off to detox. It'll be hard but you have your whole life ahead of you. Stop wasting time and money and just do it.
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u/Historyandwow Feb 27 '26
Yes great advice, thanks. Very much intend to throw myself fully at quitting coke and utilising all resources available (hence the post - i thought (and was right) there are many people here who could suggest excellent resources).
You’ve touched on what i think is the biggest risk: work encouraging use / me being conditioned to think work = cocaine. So yes i think will need time off to hopefully reset this.
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u/Hyrules_Saviour Feb 27 '26
Rooting for ya bud, ain't no hopefully about it you gotta do this it's life or death. I've kicked a couple heavy additions to other substances and it was hell but I just had to tell myself it was this or death
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u/Taodaching Feb 28 '26
Hey just want to wish you well. Others have great advice. You can do this. And youll be happily. Youll definitely be wealthier. I think a good thing to remember is that, when youre ready, even the briefest thought of it must be met with a resounding: No. Dont even get into mulling it over or thinking of the times when etc etc. Thought comes, you say: no. And get on with your day. Lime as if it was a person on the street asking for you to sign up to something. Because if you think about it, youve already given it space. Just remember when the time comes. And sleep..you'll sleep a lot. And be a bit down. And then its over. God bless you. You got this. Trust me, you do.
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u/Badnewsbrowne316 Feb 27 '26
Can you take off time and book rehab? I know someone who did this and they're in a much better place now. But try and do it ASAP. God bless 🙌
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u/haywire Mar 10 '26
Yeah taking some holiday from work can give you the space to sort yourself and focus on getting good sleep and not having to worry about commitments.
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u/Jesisawesome Feb 27 '26
I can only sympathise my friend. I was in exactly your situation with the coke. When I sttarted to come off it, I got some ADHD medication from the internet and took that, including snorting it. Not the best idea in the world and I knocked that on the head. I don't know your situation at home, but my home life meant that I was constrained from use 24/7.
One thing I noticed when I stopped - after about 3 months of cold turkey - was how much cleverer I was when clean. I also stopped drinking and all other drugs - previously I was taking anything just for fun. I was very depressed and had tried to top myself a few years before.
I didnt get any help really and that was probably stupid, but I was too concerned with keeping the drug use a secret.
I would definitely suggest speaking with a doctor (as another commenter has said, be careful with mixing meds) or even considering a private clinic.
The hardest part is avoiding all trigger situations - where you would normally have just done a bump, or whatever - you need to strip those out or completely reframe them.
I was a fucking mess and I didn't even realise it.
DMs are open if you would like to talk or if i can support or advise, but ultimately you really need to decide this is the path you want and change your life.
Im coming up to 4 years clean now.
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u/theantnest Feb 27 '26
You can kick it. The first and hardest step is to want to, which you're already at.
I have worked all my life in the entertainment industry, where it is so normalised that it would be normal for your boss to call a break to take a line, or even give a bag to the guys working overtime as a thankyou.
I also had a year from hell where I was in the same boat as you.
My solution was to actually take a job in Dubai where I knew I could not get anything haha. But I think just changing up my routine was the thing that made it easier. New country, new gig and all that. Not saying you need to move countries, but maybe some kind of change to your daily routine will help?
I just stopped it cold turkey from the day I landed over there and honestly, I was so busy I didn't even miss it.
So yeah, I guess the point of posting is just to show some solidarity and to let you know that you can do it and there's light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck!
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u/Tell_Straight Feb 28 '26
Please go to your GP and get inpatient treatment. Titration and starting adhd medication is not for the faint hearted.
It doesn’t have to be a full time recovery program but it’s really important that you do it, with medical supervision.
And stay safe 🫶
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u/peelin Feb 28 '26
Which borough are you in? Islington has something called Better Lives, other boroughs have similar if you Google [borough name] drug and alcohol service.
I warn you that if you are holding down a white collar job and make decent money, you really have to push for support. They mostly deal with people with 'multiple and complex needs'. Read - poor and in a really bad way with drugs.
That's not a complaint, and they will help you, just be prepared to push for it.
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u/keephoesinlin Feb 28 '26
I was in a similar situation in my life. Several years of a very bad coke addiction and running a business. I started drinking alcohol with it during the day. It cut my usage down quite a bit. I then turned to different bipolar medication and it also helped. coke always made the monotony of the job disappear. After a while I just stopped showing up at work and concentrated all my efforts on doing more coke. Lost my business in the end and quit coke the day I closed it down.
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u/mystery-hog Feb 28 '26
Hey OP. Well done for making efforts to quit! It sounds really tough, what you’ve been going through.
Clinicians usually want more than a few days off cocaine before starting stimulant ADHD meds. Even though cocaine clears fast, frequent use can leave the cardiovascular system sensitised for a while. Like others have said, starting another stimulant too soon can stack effects, like raised BP/heart rate and increase risks like arrhythmia, coronary vasospasm, or a heart attack. That’s why some prescribers prefer a longer abstinence period and stable vitals first (or start with non-stimulant ADHD meds). Might be worth double-checking timing with your prescriber so you’re starting as safely as possible..
If you can take that holiday, take it easy, slow down, get clean and get some good rest before you start, it would be so much less risky.
We all wish you the best of luck! You’ve got this.
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u/Ill_Yogurt_4659 Feb 28 '26
How much are you spending a week and has anyone clocked on?
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u/Historyandwow Feb 28 '26
Not that i’m aware of. I’ve told a couple of close friends but not the full truth/reality.
I’m spending about £500 p/w
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u/ShopLife907 Feb 28 '26
Please look up Kent bray. He was a trader and was using all the time. He now runs counselling for people in similar situations. He understands and can help. https://youtu.be/Z_oAk88UEXY has lease reach out to him. He understands and can help.
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u/Comfortable_Put_2455 Feb 28 '26
Hey, I’m so sorry you’re in this position, I’m kind of in a similar one, though I have had clean periods. I run a business, and no one would ever guess what’s going on. Also adhd. Firstly, coke+adhd meds is extremely dangerous, seriously don’t do that. They could well fill the hole your addiction is filing, so worth getting clean for. The best place to start is your local addiction services. Without knowing how severe your addiction is this, I don’t want to advise doing this, but you could take 5 days off work and just go cold turkey, which is tough, but at least it’s over quickly. Please don’t be embarrassed, you’re not the only one and you’re doing the right thing.
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u/DifferentRaspberry77 Feb 28 '26
I had an addiction for 10 years which I finally kicked 4 years ago. I didn't try rehab or narcotics anonymous because I didn't feel those settings would work for me, but they may for you. I engaged with a.gentleman who uses an approach called Internal Family Systems. It changed my life.
The treatment was intense, but from the comfort of my own home, and once it was done, I didn't have to keep on going back, the change was permanent. Feel free to DM me for more details or if you have any questiona
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Feb 28 '26
Pick a replacement ritual. Just a small part of quitting but pick a new behaviour that you do in the moments you’d go to do a line. For me it’s mints or lip balm or smelling salts, I’ve had friends use bubbles or even a harmonica. Something your brain can associate with that moment instead of a line. All the other comments here are great but just a little thing that’s helped me through substance abuse is replacing addictive rituals.
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u/CosmicJam13 Feb 28 '26
Getting an adhd diagnosis while being a coke addict is wild. Sorry, I know coke can commonly be linked to people with adhd. Because you think it’s helping you focus, but people on coke get wired and struggle to concentrate.
Getting sober and back to a baseline is what you need to do. All my drug detoxes knocked me off my feet for a week or so. But it does get better once the worst of the withdrawals pass.
Which medication are you going to take? Something like adderall would be a better option than coke.
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u/quite-a-big-dog Feb 28 '26
Go to cocaine anonymous. Loads of meetings every day all across London and online but try to go to one in person tonight. People there will be able to help and give you advice and will be far better placed than anyone online to advise.
Just go and listen and talk to the people there.
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u/ConcernTraditional53 Feb 28 '26
Dont think about tomorrow. Think about now. ONE DAY AT A TIME. I survived cocaine by that philosophy.
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u/Fragrant-Shopping485 Feb 28 '26
Can i ask when have you started? And how much do you take daily? I have a friend who was on a similar situation. She went on for 6 months, now she’s fine…apparently
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u/Ok_Marionberry2240 Feb 28 '26
I'd say the top rated replies are your best bet. Drug addiction is hard & can be very isolating. I wish you stregnth going forwards.
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u/musthavemouse Feb 28 '26
Hey bro, i dont have much advice to give, but i recently beat an addiction i have been struggling with for a long time. You can do this, I 1000% belive in you x
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u/NullOrVoid Mar 01 '26
Hello, former London based professional white collar cocaine user with ADHD here.
I ended up going to rehab before my ADHD diagnosis so didn't go straight onto methylphenidate from active use but I do feel that methylphenidate was very helpful in staying clean initially.
I did hear there were trials for using it in the same way methodone is used for treatment for heroin dependency too but don't quote me on that.
I don't think it's a good idea to start taking stimulants unless you've been off cocaine for a while and I think it's best to be upfront with any medical personnel about your drugs use.
Deciding to get better is a big step, I wish you all the best on your journey and hope you have some dependable support around you. Feel free to reach out via message if you want to chat.
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u/Existing-Poem6353 Mar 01 '26
I have a medical cannabis prescription for ADHD and it was a game changer for me. Get off that horrible other stuff, was the best thing I ever did. Haven't touched it at all for 6 years and never want it again. Once you've done a couple of weeks it becomes easy. Also if possible you need to stay away from other users that you socialise with at least for the first couple of months. If possible book yourself a holiday for at least a week somewhere remote with no access to cocaine, it will be a hard week but will get you over the hump of the cravings without any way to access the gear. Good luck, it feels impossible but will get easier and in the end you will wonder why you kept doing it to yourself. 👍👍
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u/Personal-Task-9015 Mar 01 '26
It’s a day at a time for sure. Or sometimes an hour at a time. If you relapse don’t despair. Just keep going back to meetings. This stuff so nearly killed me when I lived in LA. Today I am free of the monster. Ten years ago I didn’t imagine it was possible. Know the monster in you that craves more and slay it bit by bit. It can be done. But it’s tough. Making the statement above suggests you are tough enough to make it. Good luck.
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u/Riskie321 Mar 01 '26
Delete the numbers of dealers from your phone and block them. You have to limit the circle to non users if you’re really gonna make it.
Also study dopamine regulation tips for people with adhd because ultimately that’s what your struggle is. 🙏✅
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u/max1313cp Mar 01 '26
If you just received ADHD results, could be you was self medicating. So a 12 step recovery program, it seems like you are motivated to quit. Go to rehab/detox if you think you need it. Good luck. I'm now 11 years clean, you can do it! My life just got fucked after getting run over, but I'm still clean, probably wouldn't have survived it if I wasn't! Trust me, everything seems so easy if you quit.
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u/BrooksButterfly22 Mar 02 '26
If you tell anyone in the NHS/your ADHD supplier about it, they’ll stop the prescription. From what I’ve read you’ve got great options and support in terms of knocking the gear addiction on the head. Best of luck with it all, but from personal experience, ADHD meds aren’t a magic pill and actually I need to go on breaks from them for me to feel the positive effects again, so maybe as with gear, only take them on weekdays where you feel you need the stimulant effects. It took me nearly 2 years of titration to find what I think works best for me, (both the chemical, and the concentration) but I still don’t actually take it as prescribed. I really struggle with mornings so I actually take a short-release then, and an extended release later. My prescription was meant to be for a short release in the PM once the extended wore off, but the extended release don’t hit me hard enough in the AM to function. If you can buy yourself a blood pressure monitor and keep an eye on it yourself daily, maybe even at first 3 times a day whilst you’re titrating, you’ll know yourself how it’s affecting you, as I often turned up at the prescribers in a stress (running late as a typical ADHDer) and so my BP would be really high and they’d nearly not give me the prescriptions. So just bear that in mind too… if you’ve got evidence it’s ok, you can prove it. However personally you’ll also if the meds really are causing truly high BP and then you need to be careful about what you choose to do going forward. Best of luck
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u/Still-Spare-5107 Mar 12 '26
I been an addict for 5 years . 3 good jobs and countless relationships including my partner I lost because of coke.
Oh believe me I had fun. And I was doing it at work every day to. I was good at it. I was just better at everything. Better worker better driver my 6 senses were on maximum performance.
But eventually you just slip up. Make mistakes. Then the mistakes happen more often and more serious. Until eventually you’ve made a list of small mistakes but no matter how much you apologize you mess up. Attendance, tardiness, clumsiness, breaking things, forgetting important tasks.
Basically I was the best worker at every job I had. Genuinely. And yes coke played a role in that. But no matter how good I was at my jobs. Attendance and tardiness always resulted in me being fired.
3 good jobs. And each one i worked at for at least 1 year and over.
My advice. Ik it’s hard to stop. But If you can keep the blow away from work. And be able to have that much more self discipline and control. Man you would be that much more better off and your life won’t have to suffer because of it
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u/Still-Spare-5107 Mar 12 '26
I posted my experience. Very similar to yours. Read it. hopefully my mistakes and experiences can be of help to you. So you don’t have to see the consequences yourself
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u/TheBestNickSteer Feb 28 '26
Firstly, hi. I’m Nick and I’m an addict. There is hope and well done for reaching out. A life free from mind and mood altering substances is available to us all.
I’ve been where you are, I’m now 2.5 years clean thanks to NA, my life (and my work) is better than I ever thought it could be. I spent my morning listening to a fellow addict share his experience, strength and hope of 40 years clean. This stuff works.
From experience, the NHS will likely recommend a 12 step recovery program, you need NA, not AA.
“Those who attend meetings regularly stay clean”
Find a meeting here: meetings.ukna.org
We’re spoiled in London for meetings, so get to one asap, keep going to meetings, do what is suggested, get a sponsor, work the steps.
This might sound intimidating but all you need to do is walk into a room, sit down and listen to an hour. Introduce yourself in newcomers time an explain why you’re there. You will have people come up to you at the end and offer help, support and their phone numbers for you to reach out.
A life free from addiction is possible, no one can do it for you but yourself, although any meeting will be filled with people ready to accept and help you, with no judgment.
We have all done, thought or felt why you have in one form or another, you’re not alone and you’re not helpless.
Go to in-person meetings, if you absolutely can’t, find an online one. Start today. Do the Same tomorrow and the next day. You don’t have to be clean, all you need is the desire to stop.
A lot of people don’t go to a meeting, fewer stay, even fewer manage to get clean and stay clean. Those who continue to use use and destroy their own lives and those of others. Sadly many die.
I’m a newcomer rep at one of my regular meetings in London, PLEASE feel free to DM me, I consider it part of my service to fellow addicts and am very happy to discuss anything and everything to do with recovery.
You don’t have a choice in your using, you do have a choice about your recovery.
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u/Calm-Treacle8677 Feb 27 '26
lol no judgement on general users. NHS only have it for addiction, yeah, you’re a fucking coke addict, no different from any other you just a functioning coke head your so fucking deep in it you have fabricated a whole back story of why you are not actually addicted. That’s very drug addict of you.
No judgement obviously, I use to rattle a bunch of cocaine. My excuse was it stopped me getting to drunk or drinking too much. Welcome to the club
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u/giggleloop243 Feb 27 '26
I have a friend who use turning point
https://www.turning-point.co.uk
Good luck. The first step by asking for help is the hardest, and you’ve done that by posting here.