Heroin addiction is a growing problem in the US, with increasing addiction rates every year. In fact, it can be difficult to recognize the signs of heroin addiction as many people will go out of their way to hide their illness. If you feel a loved one is struggling with addiction, heroin addiction treatment can help them get on the road to recovery. Moreover, talking with your loved one about their heroin addiction may be what saves their life from this treatable illness.
At Arkview Recovery Center, our heroin addiction treatment center in PA will help residents with heroin addiction. Our treatment programs are not one-size-fits-all. We create individualized programs based on the patient’s current mental and physical health, including the severity of their addiction.
If you are concerned that a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, call 717.744.0756 today to learn more about recognizing the signs of heroin addiction.
Signs of Heroin Addiction
Heroin is an opioid from the poppy plant Papaver somniferum. It binds with the opioid receptors on cells in the brain and throughout your body. It releases a massive amount of endorphins responsible for the euphoric feeling that lasts for a short period.
With continued use, even in small amounts, the body stops the natural production of these endorphins. Your body can never produce the same euphoria without more heroin. At that point, the more you use, the more your body will crave it.
Extended use of heroin can lead to severe physical and mental side effects that include:
- Infections in the heart lining and valves
- Damaged skin tissue due to snorting
- Collapsed veins due to injection
- Constipation and stomach cramps
- Sexual dysfunction in men
- Irregular menstrual cycles for women
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain sensitivity
If you believe someone you know is addicted to heroin, look for these behavioral signs of heroin addiction:
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Mood swings, sometimes violent
- Lying about their actions and whereabouts
- Increasingly irritable and agitated
- A lack of motivation
- Paranoia
If you also begin to notice sudden weight loss, scabs, and bruises on their arms or legs, it is time to talk to them about their drug use and offer to help get them into a heroin rehab center.
Talking with Your Loved One About Heroin Addiction Rehab
Getting someone who is struggling with addiction to admit they have a problem and that they are ready to accept help is the first step in their addiction recovery. You cannot force someone into recovery and expect good results. Addiction is a very deceitful illness, even to the person with the addiction. In fact, it changes the person’s brain chemistry to the point where their only concern is feeding the addiction.
Talk with your loved one in a warm and non-confrontational setting. Tell them why you are concerned for their health and wellbeing. Avoid any accusatory tone or phrases such as, “This is your fault” and “Look what you’re doing to the family.” Many patients report not being aware of what their actions are doing to others, and even if they are aware of it and the harm they are causing themselves, they are powerless to stop.
The first conversation you have with your loved one may not go as planned, but it can help open their eyes to the pain they are causing others and to themselves. Be patient, gentle, and persistent. Your efforts will help.
Arkview Recovery Can Help Your Loved One if You See Signs of Heroin Addiction
At Arkview Recovery, we are a heroin addiction treatment center in PA that can help you or a loved one with heroin addiction and other mental health illnesses. We combine behavioral therapy, family counseling, and other proven methods for breaking your addiction and helping you understand the cause behind it.
For more information about understanding the signs of heroin addiction, call 717.744.0756 today to help a loved one begin their heroin addiction rehab.
