Heroin addiction is a major problem in the United States, with millions of people struggling with an addiction to this fast-acting narcotic. Heroin is more potent than morphine and highly addictive. If you’re concerned that a friend or loved one may be using it, it’s important to recognize the signs of heroin addiction. Identifying these signs early can help you intervene and potentially save a life.
The Ranch PA is a full-service addiction treatment center that supports those struggling with addiction to heroin, cocaine, prescription opioids, meth, and other dangerous substances. Our heroin addiction treatment program focuses on the individual’s reason behind the abuse and will develop a comprehensive recovery program. We use the top therapies for treating addiction, including behavioral and holistic therapies and medication to ease any withdrawals, cravings, or other disruptive symptoms.
What Are the Signs of Heroin Addiction?
The poppy plant Papaver somniferum produces heroin, a natural painkiller. It poses an extreme risk of abuse and addiction and is 50 times more potent than morphine. The substance’s fast-acting properties create a euphoric rush that you can’t naturally replicate, and the longer you take it, the more your body craves it.
If you’re worried that a friend or loved one is using heroin, you should be familiar with the physical and behavioral signs of heroin addiction.
Physical Symptoms
Once a person is using heroin, it’ll cause their eyes to constrict, even in low light. They’ll experience drowsiness or “nodding off,” as well as other symptoms, which include:
- Slurred speech
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Weight loss
- Neglecting personal hygiene
- Constantly itching or scratching
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chronic constipation
People who abuse heroin will go to great lengths to hide any sign of the abuse, so you’ll need to pay close attention to their actions and behaviors.
Behavioral Symptoms
These signs are a little easier to recognize than the physical signs. You’ll notice they’re acting more secretly or deceptive. They may begin to have financial problems as heroin will cause problems at work, school, and home. They’ll neglect their responsibilities, lose interest in their favorite activities, and withdraw from friends and family. You may also notice they’re hanging out with different friends who’ll encourage drug abuse.
Other signs of heroin addiction include developing anxiety or paranoia, depression, memory problems, a lack of motivation, and intense mood swings.
What To Expect When Treating Heroin Abuse
There’s no cure for heroin addiction, but there are several treatment programs available that can reduce symptoms and give your body time to heal. If you’re considering enrolling in a heroin treatment program, here is what you can expect when treating heroin abuse.
Health Assessment
The team at our treatment center will first welcome you and run a complete health assessment to determine the length of the addiction and its severity. We’ll then develop a tailored treatment program consisting of group and private behavioral therapy, holistic therapy, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Medical Plan
To help ease any addiction withdrawals, cravings, and other depressive or anxiety symptoms, they’ll administer medications based on your plan. Medical staff will administer and monitor you throughout the program and adjust the medication as necessary. These medications provide temporary support, and your provider will taper you off them as withdrawals and cravings fade.
Behavioral and Holistic Therapy
Behavioral therapy is one of the best therapeutic options for treating all types of addiction. It works by focusing on the behaviors the addiction creates and finding new behaviors and actions to replace them. You’ll learn to recognize unique triggers and develop healthy coping skills to prevent a relapse.
Other behavioral and holistic therapies to treat heroin addiction include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Mindfulness practices
- Adventure therapy
Family Therapy
A strong support system can make the recovery process much easier and safer. Family therapy encourages parents, spouses, and children to participate and work through any lingering issues that may lead to a relapse. They’ll learn all about heroin addiction, how to create a stable and supportive home environment, and how they can become a part of the recovery process.
Enroll in Heroin Addiction Treatment Today at The Ranch PA
Recovery Ranch PA welcomes people from all walks of life who are ready to stop abusing heroin and ready for a positive change. We’ll create a tailored treatment program when you arrive at our treatment center in Wrightsville. You’ll work with a professional therapist who’ll dive deep into your past to develop healthy coping skills to stop the abuse once and for all.
If you or a loved one is abusing heroin, help is available. Complete our online form or call 717.969.9126 today to schedule a consultation and take that first step toward a better life.