Heroin addiction is one of the most severe forms of addiction. Because this substance is highly addictive, withdrawal from it can be intense. More so, many people can become addicted quickly, feeling unable to stop using on their own. Yet, some people may not notice what is happening to their loved ones initially. This can further worsen complications as they continue to use without getting the heroin addiction treatment they so desperately need. To help combat this issue, awareness of the signs of heroin addiction is vital.
When you come to Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge (PAATC), we offer the tools you need to overcome this powerful addiction. Our heroin addiction treatment is designed for adults and teens ages 18 and up looking for programs that align with their faith and core values. Contact our team today at 844.442.8673 for more information about our faith-based heroin addiction rehab.
Common Signs of Heroin Addiction
How do you know when someone needs heroin addiction treatment? It can be hard to recognize the signs of heroin addiction at first. Look for some of these typical signs of heroin addiction, so you will know when to seek out immediate help for yourself or your loved one.
1. Changes in Appearance
One of the most noticeable signs of heroin addiction is a change in how a person looks and feels physically. Flushed skin and dilated pupils may occur, and some people may develop painful and itchy skin that is otherwise unexplained. Many people also report having heavy feelings in their legs and arms. They may be tired all of the time, even if they do not do a lot physically to warrant it. In addition to this, many people also feel sick in general. Heroin addiction may also lead to a lack of appetite, so the person may drop weight quickly, becoming thin and frail.
2. Mental Health Disorders
Heroin addiction can lead to changes in a person’s personality. These changes may include instances of intense anxiety or depression. They may also exhibit signs of paranoia where they feel unable to control what is happening around them. Some people will hallucinate from heroin addiction, and delusions are also common. These are signs of heroin addiction that can be frightening to watch because you feel unable to help your loved one who is experiencing them. If the person was already struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, these might worsen in response to heroin addiction.
3. Physical Signs of Use
Look for signs of use to know when a person needs heroin addiction treatment. For example, they may have collapsed veins from injecting the drug into their body. Some may also have needle track marks on their arms. The injection sites may not be easily visible as some people choose to inject heroin in their legs or between their toes to hide the evidence of their use. In addition, they may wear long sleeves to hide track marks, so if your loved one is wearing long sleeves in hot weather, this may be an indicator of heroin use.
4. Intensifying Need to Use
Heroin addiction creates tolerance as well as dependence. That means the body needs more and more of the substance to reach the same level of high, and a person may become dependent on it. Once someone is dependent on heroin and tries to stop using it, they may feel intense pain and cravings for the drug. If a person is obsessed with heroin, that can be a sign of addiction occurring. They may fail to keep up with their responsibilities or let their relationships suffer as they put all of their focus on obtaining more heroin.
5. Understanding the Risks and Still Using
A person addicted to heroin understands that there are genuine and life-threatening risks associated with this drug. They know they should not use heroin, yet they continue to use it. Continuing to use heroin even after suffering adverse effects is a clear indication that a person needs heroin addiction treatment since they can no longer control their use.
Finding Heroin Addiction Treatment Is Critical for a Healthy Future
The sooner a person receives treatment, the better. Heroin addiction will worsen over time, often leading to health complications as well as overdose risks. Often, heroin addiction treatment can effectively eliminate these risks while also helping a person deal with their underlying health needs and changes. Our team offers comprehensive therapy program programs such as:
- Inpatient addiction treatment
- Outpatient addiction treatment
- Short-term clinical programs
- Faith-based addiction programs
- Complete addiction treatment programs
Turn to PAATC When You Are Ready for Heroin Addiction Rehab
Heroin addiction is one of the most devastating forms of substance use disorders, but we can provide the best possible treatment. Our Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge team can provide you with the tools and resources you need to thrive. Learn more about our heroin addiction treatment program when you call our compassionate counselors at 844.442.8673 today.
