Heroin addiction is a serious problem in the United States and around the globe, with millions of men, women, and teens abusing this lethal drug. Recognizing the different signs of heroin addiction is important to know if you know someone who is abusing drugs or alcohol. The high heroin produces is very intoxicating for individuals who struggle with depression or frequently feel stressed due to work or school commitments and can develop an addiction much faster than others.
At 7 Summit Pathways, our goal is to help you and your loved ones who are struggling with heroin addiction at our accredited addiction treatment facility. We use the latest treatment modalities that have proven results in treating addiction and the underlying causes behind it. Our team uses a combination of behavioral therapy and medical support to create a comprehensive treatment program with proven results. If you are searching for heroin addiction rehab near me, check out 7 Summit Pathways by calling 813.212.7149 today to speak with our friendly team.
Why Is It Hard to Spot Heroin Addiction in Friends and Family?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse shows a steady climb in the number of drug overdose deaths since 1999 caused by heroin and other types of opioids. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, those numbers jumped dramatically, and they continue to climb higher. It is vital to learn the different heroin addiction signs and what you can do to help stop misuse.
People who abuse drugs or alcohol will go to great lengths to hide the abuse from friends and family. There are several reasons why they do this, from shame and embarrassment to not wanting to appear weak in front of others or simply not knowing how to ask for help. Many people grew up being told to keep their problems to themselves, leaving them with an unhealthy opinion about the benefit of mental health therapy and how it can help. This can make spotting the signs of heroin addiction very difficult if you don’t know what to look for.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we have the experience necessary to treat addiction to heroin, alcohol, cocaine, and other dangerous substances. We work with individuals and their families and teach everyone about the dangers of heroin addiction and what it takes to maintain lifelong sobriety.
4 Signs of Heroin Addiction
Here are four signs of heroin addiction that you should be familiar with if you know someone who is using this dangerous narcotic:
1. Physical Damage
One of the telltale heroin addiction signs is the external and internal physical changes it causes. Heroin abuse can lead to permanent brain damage and other serious medical conditions. Those who inject heroin into the bloodstream will have track marks on their arms and legs. Some users will inject the drug in between their fingers and toes to hide these signs. Other physical signs of heroin abuse include:
- Constricted or pin-point pupils
- Nausea and vomiting
- Worsening hygiene
- Suddenly falling asleep
- Severe weight loss
- Constipation
- Tooth decay and gum disease
2. Psychological Harm
Heroin addiction causes serious psychological problems and can lead to depression, paranoia, and a decline in cognitive function. Heroin changes the delicate chemical balance within your system and disrupts neurotransmitters from functioning properly. It can also lead to low levels of oxygen in the brain. This can cause hypoxia, coma, and death.
3. Behavioral Changes
Heroin users will also display changes in their behaviors as the addiction consumes their thoughts and pushes them to continue the abuse, no matter what. Common behavioral changes caused by heroin addiction include:
- Acting irrationally and experiencing frequent mood swings, which can sometimes be violent.
- Changes in the friends they hang out with.
- They act more secretive and will lie about their activities
- Participating in increasingly risky behavior
4. Signs Around the Home
Abusing heroin leaves telltale signs at home or wherever they abuse the drug. Look for glass pipes or bongs, burnt spoons, pieces of tin foil, plastic bags with a powdery substance, and small straws or broken pen casings that are used to snort the substance.
Learning the various signs of heroin addiction is important to know if you or a loved one is abusing any amount of heroin. Despite any personal beliefs about addiction, anyone who uses heroin will develop a strong chemical dependence and addiction over time.
Find Heroin Addiction Rehab near You at 7 Summit Pathways in Tampa
At 7 Summit Pathways, we welcome all who are struggling with addiction to heroin, alcohol, cocaine, or other dangerous substances. During recovery, we talk about the dangers of addiction and how it can change your personality and behaviors. You will work with a therapist and your peers to develop and fine-tune coping skills, learn how to be better communicators, and develop life-long relationships that will support your sobriety.
Today is a great day to stop letting heroin addiction ruin your life. Call 813.212.7149 or send us a message online to get started.