Heroin is a highly addictive opioid that has gained frequent media attention over the last couple of years. Chances are, many people have heard something in the news about heroin and its devastating impact on society. Many people become addicted to heroin because they like how it makes them feel. Heroin is largely made up of morphine, which is derived from the poppy seeds of certain types of poppy plants. The poppy plants can be found in some parts of Asia, Mexico, and Columbia. Heroin is also known as “Black Tar”, “Hell Horse”, “Horse”, “Big H”, and “Smack”. It can be used in its pure form or mixed with other substances, like cocaine. Heroin can be snorted, injected, and smoked. It can appear as a white powder or as a black, sticky tar substance.
Why is heroin so popular?
Heroin is appealing to drug users because it is fast-acting and creates intense feelings of detachment and relaxation. Feelings of happiness and diminished sensitivity to pain are also experienced by heroin users. Sometimes, those who are using pain relievers containing an opioid for chronic physical, bodily discomfort may use heroin as well. Heroin affects the opioid receptors in the brain and this brings about the rush of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure. Those who seek pleasurable feelings too often may start to rely on the use of heroin all the time. It is easy to abuse heroin and people who are hooked on this addictive substance are called addicts. Addicts have a compulsive need to use a drug (or other substance) and disregard the negative consequences that the habit causes. Addiction is a disease that can become chronic and detrimental on a mental and physical level. It not only affects the addict but the people (co-friends and family) around them.
What are the signs of heroin abuse?
Using heroin may feel good at first, but eventually, the body starts to get used to it and the addict will need to use it more and more often to achieve the same high. Signs of excessive heroin use are constipation, slurred speech, depression, memory issues, falling asleep suddenly, and constricted pupils. Long-term use of heroin often leads to drastic changes in the user’s appearance and behavior. Aggression and a disheveled appearance are typically observed. Addicts become edgy and irritable and the only thing that they are focused on is getting their next high. Their priorities shift and taking a bath or grooming takes a seat on the back burner. Problems in school or work may arise, as addicts usually neglect what was once important to them.
What are treatment options for heroin users?
There are several ways to treat heroin addiction. First and foremost, the addict needs to detox from the drug. This means that they have to stop using heroin so that the drug leaves the body system. The addict will experience withdrawal symptoms, like vomiting, muscle aches, diarrhea, insomnia, and excessive sweating. There are several medications that can help reduce the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. Some of the meds used include methadone and naltrexone. These medications help reduce cravings and physical symptoms. Inpatient and outpatient recovery centers can help those who want to kick the habit. There are many qualified health professionals and addiction specialists that can increase the chances of staying clean. Certain types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy, are effective in changing the mindset of an addict. In general, CBT can help people cope with stress and reduce feelings of anxiety. Behavioral therapies can help recovering addicts recognize triggers that may cause potential drug relapses.
Implementing a successful recovery takes effort and hard work. If you are ready to change your life for the better, we are here to help. Call now at 844-844-3463 and let us help you live the life you deserve.