The UK is one of the biggest users of cocaine on the planet. Last year, it was one of the major factors in a surge in drug deaths, reaching record highs in the country, while it’s completely changing cultures, such as nightlife, watching sport and more.
More people are needing drug help to overcome their cocaine habit, while more people are starting to use it too, for all manner of reasons too. The accessibility of it is a large contributing factor to this, and it’s especially common in some quarters compared to others, whether that be on the terraces of football grounds or after work in white collar industries.
If you’ve dabbled in cocaine or even find yourself developing a problematic relationship with it, then understanding why you’re taking it is a must. It will help you to get to grips with the reasoning, as well as how you can look to work your way off the substance and towards a healthier lifestyle.
So, why are so many people taking cocaine across the UK at the moment?
Table of Contents
Coping with Stress and Pressure
The most common reason people are using cocaine is to deal with the stresses and strains of daily life, much in the same way they are with alcohol. That could be pressures at work, the cost of living crisis, relationship problems or anything else in our daily lives.
Cocaine is a stimulant so it can temporary mask feelings, particularly of things like exhaustion. It’s why it’s so common in the hospitality industry.
Of course, that burst of energy is short lived and the comedown from it can often leave people feeling worse than before. That can fuel a cycle of cocaine abuse that is very difficult to escape.
Seeking Confidence and Social Ease
While we might have a pint for “Dutch courage”, it’s a similar story with cocaine. The drug is often associated with nightlife and parties and people use it as it creates a sense of confidence and lowers inhibitions.
For those that struggle with insecurity, social anxiety or shyness, it can appear to make nights out and interactions more enjoyable, but that comes at a cost as over time people feel like they need cocaine to be a part of their night, undermining genuine self-confidence and creating this false persona.
Chasing Pleasure and Excitement
The brain’s reward system plays a central role in cocaine use. Cocaine increases levels of dopamine, the chemical responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. This surge creates an intense sense of euphoria and energy. For thrill-seekers or those who feel bored or dissatisfied in daily life, the drug can seem like an instant route to excitement.
Unfortunately, the brain quickly adapts, meaning that the same amount of cocaine produces less of a high over time. Users may find themselves taking more and more in an attempt to recapture that original rush, deepening the struggle.
Escaping Difficult Emotions
Cocaine use is not always about seeking pleasure – sometimes it is about avoiding pain. People facing grief, trauma, loneliness, or depression may turn to cocaine as a way of numbing or distracting themselves from uncomfortable emotions.
For a short while, the drug may provide relief. Yet this escape is temporary, and the underlying issues remain unaddressed. Over time, the comedown from cocaine can intensify feelings of sadness or emptiness, leaving individuals caught in a cycle of using to avoid emotions that the drug itself worsens.
Influence of Environment and Peer Pressure
Sadly, even in 2025 peer pressure is a real thing and the behaviour of others can have a big impact on how we behave around the drug. If friends or colleagues are normalising cocaine, then it can feel very difficult to resist.
Learning to say “no” is incredibly important here, but many aren’t strong enough to do that, succumbing to the pressure in fear of social rejection.
What Can Change?
If any of the above is something you can relate to, then don’t fear, you aren’t alone. Many people are experiencing this, but what you should know is that there is help out there.
There are many rehab centres, therapists and support groups out there that can give you the platform you need to move away from cocaine and towards a sober lifestyle, while reaching out to friends and family can provide the emotional support you need.
It isn’t sustainable to live your life using cocaine. There are so many dangers, but understanding the reasons you’re taking it is a positive first step towards sobriety and long-term health and happiness.
