Heroin use and addiction is taking its hold in the US and across the world. It is a drug, which is derived from the addictive opium poppy plant. The psychotropic effects of opium can cause euphoric episodes, which can run for hours. Most of the users inject, smoke or snort the substance. There are people who have also developed opioid addiction from usage of prescription painkillers.
Since they are bent on altering brain connections, they tend to be highly addictive substances. People in the LGBTQ community also suffer from substance abuse to escape from prejudice and bigotry.
Signs & Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
When heroin enters the bloodstream, it converts to morphine. Morphine is known to be a pain reliever. But, its usage is also known to cause euphoric feelings making it a popular drug of choice. However, people develop a resistance to these feelings and need to take more of it to feel the same way. This leads to dependency where the problem begins. The dependency converts into addiction and might also lead to occasional overdoses. Here are some of the signs that you might be developing a heroin addiction:
- Mood swings
- Weight loss
- Skin picking leading to scabs all over the body
- Hallucinations
- Dry mouth
- Slurred and incoherent speech
- Delusions
- Self-isolation
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
We understand these effects might be harder to spot if you’re a loved one of a suspected user. Perhaps because drug users tend to hide their addiction from their family and friends. Here are some signs to ascertain drug usage if you are a loved one:
- Decreased hygiene
- Untoward personality changes
- Distancing and self-isolation
- Financial trouble
- Lying
Now, try to understand that Heroin and other opiate addictions are harder to cope. Nevertheless, it is not impossible to let go of heroin addiction. There are people who are ex-addictions but continue to live healthy and fulfilling lives. Be mindful that it usually proves daunting to shed without help from addiction treatment programmes.
Heroin Rehab: A beginner’s guide
When someone tries to let go of heroin, the mind tries to convince the addict that they will perish without the drug. This is simply not true. Hence, try to join treatment centers, which limit the usage of the drug. These can prove to be monumental in charting your way through recovery. Hence, it’s always advisable to take the help of a professional like Skyward Treatment. So, get in touch with us to start your sober journey now!