Heroin is one of the most commonly-known drugs, typically either used for self-medicating or for recreational purposes. It is an illegal, semi-synthetic drug that tends to create a sense of relaxed euphoria within just a few seconds if it is injected. 

Because of this fast euphoric state, people who use heroin can quickly become addicted, wanting to feel good more often and for longer periods of time. So, they keep using more frequently and eventually become dependent on the drug in order to even function on a daily basis. 

The real problem is that heroin continues to become increasingly popular throughout the country, and more people are not only depending on it but using it more frequently. 

The Effects of a Heroin Addiction

Heroin is considered an opioid. In many cases, it’s easy for users to hide their addiction for quite some time until the effects become too much to handle and the “craving” for the drug overtakes just about everything else.

There are also some physical side effects of heroin use that you can look out for, including: 

  • Dry mouth
  • Poor performance at work or school
  • Slurred speech 
  • Weight loss
  • Runny nose

Heroin addiction can also have an emotional and mental impact, creating behavioral changes in people who are dependent on it. Addicts will often lie or deceive even the people they love when it comes to getting money or drugs. They also might lose interest in things they used to enjoy or have trouble focusing. As a result, many heroin addicts spend a lot of time sleeping, and when they are awake they might feel disoriented or confused. 

Overcoming a Heroin Addiction in Indiana

Almost every heroin addiction recovery starts with detox. Unfortunately, detoxing from heroin isn’t an easy task. In some cases, the addict might not be able to function properly. It can cause serious side effects like sweating, crying, cold sweats, vomiting, aches and cramps, and even insomnia. 

Because heroin stays in the body for several hours after using it, detox effects usually start to take hold in about 12 hours. They usually start to wear off in just a day or two and are completely gone within a week for short-term addicts. 

Heroin addiction rehabilitation centers are absolutely necessary for overcoming the power of addiction. Treatment typically involves everything from one-on-one counseling to group therapy, and in some cases, medication. 

Rehab is about more than just “getting clean”. It’s about helping to prevent a relapse by giving you the tools and skills needed to break free from your addiction. 

If you, or someone you love, are struggling with a heroin addiction, taking the first step towards getting help can often feel like a leap of faith. But, it could very well be the first step that changes your life and gives you control once again. 

Heroin usage isn’t only dangerous, it can be deadly. In 2013 alone, there were over 8,000 deaths in the U.S. caused by a heroin overdose. Don’t let yourself or someone you love become another statistic. Contact us today for more information or with any questions you might have. 

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