Treating Heroin Addiction

Heroin is an opioid that is naturally derived from the poppy plant and is highly addictive. The path to heroin addiction often begins with physical pain and emotional distress. Many people who develop a heroin addiction were initially prescribed opioids for legitimate reasons. However, as tolerance builds, individuals escalate their doses and seek a high outside their prescription.

Understanding the harrowing journey from curiosity to dependency is essential to addressing heroin addiction in our community.

Key Takeaways

Heroin is a highly addictive drug with no recognized medical use. Here’s what you need to know about heroin addiction:

  • Heroin addiction is a chronic disease that profoundly alters brain chemistry, leading to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Heroin abuse carries a high risk of overdose death.
  • Medication-assisted therapy and counseling help individuals with heroin dependence on their path to recovery.

Call The Recovery Team-Newton at (508) 978-2772 for information on how to deal with street heroin withdrawal symptoms.

Heroin Explained

Heroin, an illegal opioid derived from poppy plants, is a Schedule I controlled substance in the US due to its high abuse potential and no recognized medical use. It’s sold as white or brown powder or black tar, often injected but snorted or smoked.

When heroin enters the body, it is rapidly converted into morphine, which binds to opioid receptors in the brain and body. However, heroin abuse can lead to severe physical and mental health issues, making it a dangerous and illegal substance with far-reaching negative impacts on individuals and communities.

Effects of Heroin on the Body

Heroin, a highly addictive drug, can devastate the body and mind. Below are a few of the effects of heroin use.

Short-Term Effects of Heroin

  • Euphoria and relaxation
  • Slowed breathing and heart rate
  • Confusion and drowsiness
  • Respiratory depression
  • Constricted pupils and impaired coordination
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hypothermia

Long-Term Effects of Heroin

  • Physical dependence and addiction
  • Weakening of the immune system
  • Liver and kidney damage
  • Infectious diseases
  • Overdose and death
  • Respiratory problems, including pneumonia
  • Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety

Psychological Effects of Heroin Use

Heroin can have profound psychological effects on individuals who use it. These effects can vary depending on the dose, frequency of use, individual differences, and co-occurring mental health issues.

Here are some common psychological effects associated with heroin use:

  • Relaxation and Sedation: Heroin is a central nervous system depressant. As with other opioids, people who use heroin often experience a deep sense of relaxation and sedation. This can result in reduced anxiety and stress in the short term.
  • Emotional Numbing: Some people addicted to heroin report feeling emotionally detached or numb when using heroin, which can be a way to cope with difficult emotions or traumatic experiences.
  • Mental Clouding: Heroin can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties with thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving.
  • Anxiety and Paranoia: While some people use heroin to reduce anxiety, others may experience heightened anxiety or paranoia, especially during withdrawal or when the drug’s effects wear off.
  • Cravings and Compulsion: Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and adults who use it often develop intense cravings and compulsions to use the drug, leading to addiction.
  • Depression:  Researchers claim that chronic heroin use can contribute to developing or exacerbating depression. This could be related to the drug’s direct effects on the brain or the social isolation and loss of relationships that come with addiction.
  • Isolation and Social Loneliness: Heroin use disorder can lead to social isolation as adults prioritize drug use over relationships and responsibilities, further exacerbating psychological problems.

Heroin Addiction by the Numbers

According to the National Survey, in 2019, approximately 600,000 deaths were linked to drug use, with nearly 80 percent of these fatalities attributed to opioids and approximately 25 percent arising from opioid overdoses.

In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported approximately 14,000 heroin overdose deaths in the United States.

Heroin Addiction and Dependence

Addiction and dependence are severe consequences of heroin use. Addiction is the compulsive, uncontrollable urge to seek and use a substance despite harmful consequences. It leads to changes in the brain’s reward system, making quitting alone nearly impossible.

Dependence occurs when the body adapts to the substance, requiring the drug to function normally. Sudden cessation of heroin results in withdrawal symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety. Both addiction and dependence are treatable with therapy and medication, but overcoming substance abuse requires professional help and strong social support.

Signs of Heroin Addiction

Understanding when to get treatment is half of the battle. The following are common signs and symptoms of addiction:

  • Increasing tolerance and needing a higher dose to achieve the same effect
  • Withdrawal symptoms on attempts to stop heroin use
  • Loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities
  • Neglecting responsibilities in favor of heroin use
  • Failed attempts to cut down heroin use
  • Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from heroin use
  • Continued use of illicit drugs despite negative consequences
  • Cravings and a strong desire to use heroin
  • Social and interpersonal problems related to drug abuse
  • Neglecting personal hygiene and appearance

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, it is time to discuss treatment.

Treatment for Heroin Addiction

Several treatment modalities have proven effective in helping individuals break free from heroin addiction, each tailored to address specific needs and circumstances.

Here are some heroin addiction treatment options:

Residential Treatment

Residential or inpatient treatment provides a structured environment under health care providers where individuals can focus solely on their recovery. Patients at the treatment facility receive intensive therapy and support for a month or longer.

This comfortable, home-like environment removes them from triggers and offers round-the-clock care, making it suitable for those with severe drug addiction.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment programs offer flexibility for individuals who need to continue their daily responsibilities while receiving therapy and support for their addiction. These programs provide counseling, group therapy, and educational sessions, allowing participants to learn coping strategies and build a strong support network.

In addition, outpatient treatment suits those with mild addiction or those transitioning from more intensive care.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment combines methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone with counseling and behavioral therapies. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, enabling individuals to focus on recovery.

MAT is particularly beneficial for those with severe substance use disorder as it increases the chances of successful recovery and reduces the risk of relapse.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals with heroin addiction also struggle with co-occurring mental health disorders, known as dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both addiction and underlying mental health issues simultaneously.

Comprehensive assessment and therapy plans are designed to provide a holistic approach, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support for their mental health while tackling their addiction.