Come Down

The term “come down” is colloquially used to describe the often unpleasant phase that follows the euphoric effects of drugs. This period is characterised by a return to baseline or even sub-baseline levels of wellbeing making it an essential topic for understanding within drug use and addiction.

History and Origin of ‘Come Down’

The phrase “come down” in relation to drug use can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s, during a surge in recreational drug experimentation. As drug use moved from purely medicinal to recreational, users needed language to describe the various stages and effects they experienced. The term aptly describes the descent from the peak of a drug-induced high.

When Can ‘Come Downs’ Occur?

A come down can occur after the peak effects of almost any psychoactive substance wear off. The timeline and intensity will depend on the specific drug, the dose, the user’s physiology and the presence of any other substances in the user’s system.

Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines): A come down can be experienced as fatigue, irritability and depressive feelings. These effects can start within hours of the drug wearing off.
Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines): Users might experience anxiety, insomnia and restlessness.
Hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, psilocybin): While these substances often have a more prolonged and less defined comedown, users can still feel exhausted, disoriented or even depressed once the primary effects wear off.

FAQs on ‘Come Downs’

Q: Is a come down the same as withdrawal?
A: Not exactly. While both relate to drug use, a come down typically occurs shortly after using the substance and is the immediate aftermath of the high. In contrast, withdrawal can start hours to days later and can last much longer, indicating physical dependence.
Q: Are come downs only associated with illegal drugs?
A: No. Even legal substances like alcohol or prescription medications can have a come down phase.
Q: Can come downs be dangerous?
A: Yes. Especially if the drug use was heavy or combined with other substances. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe depression or anxiety.
Q: Can you avoid a come down?
A: While some people might not experience noticeable come downs, reducing the dose, staying hydrated, eating well and getting enough sleep can mitigate some of the symptoms. However, the only surefire way to avoid a come down is to avoid drug use.
Q: Is the severity of a come down indicative of the quality of the drug?
A: Not necessarily. While impurities in drugs can contribute to the severity, even pure substances can lead to powerful come downs.

Misconceptions about ‘Come Downs’

Instant Recovery: Many believe that after a night’s rest, one can recover from a come down. However, the body might need more time, especially after using potent substances.
“Natural” Means Safe: Some think that natural drugs like cannabis or psilocybin don’t have come downs. While they might be milder, they still exist.
Mood Equals Come Down: A low mood the day after using isn’t always a come down. Various factors, including lack of sleep or dehydration, can also contribute.

Understanding come downs is fundamental for anyone considering drug use or those in the throes of addiction. Recognising the repercussions of the euphoria provides a more rounded view of substance use, emphasising that the highs often come with lows.

Navigating the “Come Down”: The Aftereffects of Substance Use

Every high has its low. The soaring feelings of euphoria, heightened sensations and amplified emotions can be intoxicating, both figuratively and literally. However, the period that follows this high, often termed as a “come down,” can be one of the most challenging parts of drug use. But what exactly is a come down and how does it manifest in the body?

A “come down” is a descent from the peak of a drug-induced high, often bringing with it feelings of fatigue, irritability, depression, anxiety, insomnia and even physical symptoms. This phase isn’t just about feeling mentally low; it’s about the body trying to recalibrate and find its equilibrium after being subjected to intense psychoactive effects. This process can be both physically and mentally exhausting.

For example with stimulants like cocaine, the body has been operating in overdrive. As the effects wear off, there’s a profound sense of fatigue and a need for extended rest. With depressants, the opposite can happen with feelings of anxiety and restlessness taking the forefront. Hallucinogens, which distort one’s sense of reality, can leave an individual feeling disoriented and mentally drained.

Understanding the toll a come down can have on the body and mind points to the significance of having professional guidance during the recovery process. If you or someone you know is regularly experiencing these “lows,” it may be time to seek help.

Choosing the right rehab is a important step to ensure that individuals get the care tailored to their needs. Every person’s experience with substance use is unique and understanding the rehab process can alleviate concerns and make the transition smoother. With specialised addiction treatment options, individuals can address the root causes of their substance use and equip themselves with tools to handle come downs and potential relapses.

South Africa offers numerous rehab centers, each designed to cater to different needs. Whether it’s in the bustling city of Johannesburg, the administrative hub of Pretoria, the scenic landscapes of Cape Town, the vibrant Durban, the serene settings of Mpumalanga or the picturesque Garden Route, there’s a place that can help navigate the challenging parts of recovery.

In conclusion, while the allure of a high can be tempting, understanding and acknowledging the inevitable come down is crucial. The effects can be taxing but with the right support, recovery and a life of sobriety are within reach.

At We Do Recover, we're grounded in the belief that to overcoming addiction issues starts with something as simple as a phone call, email or an online chat with us. Our team, has vast experience as addiction counsellors and interventionists, is ready to offer you the support you need right from the start. Our core mission? To provide you with clear, direct help, ensuring you and your loved ones steer clear of treatments that don’t work and find the effective support you deserve. We know all too well how pressing the need is to confront the growing challenges of addiction and how crucial it is to reach out sooner rather than later. Through our blend of personal touch and professional expertise, we’ve guided countless individuals on the path to recovery and we can help you too.