Heroin is an opioid made from morphine, in the form of tar or powder that can be injected, sniffed, snorted, or smoked. As you probably know, heroin use can easily lead to addiction, which is a complex condition that affects the reward system in the brain. As a result of heroin addiction, there may be an inability to control behavior, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms.
Identifying addiction and knowing when to reach out for help can be difficult. To make matters more difficult, withdrawal symptoms can be severe if the person has developed a dependence on a substance. For these reasons, rehabilitation at a dedicated facility with experienced, caring support staff is vital for recovering from heroin addiction. In many cases, it’s often a loved one reaches out and find help for someone they love.
No matter what stage of addiction an individual is in, if someone you love is currently in need of heroin addiction treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out immediately by calling us at 866.314.3222.
Signs of Heroin Addiction
Heroin has similar effects to prescription pain medication. Because of these similarities, many people addicted to pain medication become addicted to heroin instead when their access to a prescription ends. Heroin binds to opioid receptors in cells located in areas that include those involved in feelings of pain and pleasure and in controlling heart rate, sleeping, and breathing. People who regularly use heroin often develop a tolerance, which means that they need higher or more frequent doses of the drug to get the same effects.
People who become addicted to heroin will develop cravings for the drug and often prioritize obtaining and using heroin over other obligations such as work, school, or family. Changes in mood, personality, and behavior can be signs of addiction. People who are addicted to heroin may spend a lot of time thinking about and acquiring the drug. In addition, they may seek out new friends who use heroin or want to hang out in places they know people will be using the drug.
Many users of heroin report that they seek it out because it makes them feel good. Once addicted, they continue to use the drug because withdrawal symptoms make them feel bad.
Specific signs of addiction include:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Itching
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Flushed skin
- Slurred speech
- Sudden change in hobbies and friends
- Wearing long sleeves even in warm weather
- Paranoia
- Irritability
Heroin Addiction Treatment at Soledad House
At Soledad House, we specialize in women’s heroin addiction treatment, tailoring all of our programs specifically to meet the needs of women in recovery. We use a unique holistic approach that honors each woman’s body, mind, and spirit. We provide access to many in-depth tools that promote healing from addiction. Those tools include sober living, life skills training, and extended care. Finally, our ideal location on the beautiful California coast provides a sunny and healthy atmosphere to nourish a client’s body and spirit, and makes our premier addiction treatment center unique.
Signs of addiction point to the immediate need for an addiction treatment center. Treatment is needed to help individuals move safely through the risks of a withdrawal period of recovery. Once clients have safely completed the detox process, they are ready to advance to our addiction recovery programs. These focus on the psychological, emotional, and spiritual elements of leading a sober life.
Help Is Within Reach
Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction in a loved one can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face this challenge alone. With a dedicated team of professionals and a holistic approach to recovery, we’re here to guide you and your loved one every step of the way. Take the first step toward a brighter future by contacting us today. Your path to recovery starts here.
