Heroin is a popular drug of choice. Once upon a Time Street drugs were only found in larger cities, but now small towns are even feeling the effects of dangerous drugs. Heroin is so popular that, according to a White House report from 2014, there were currently 1.5 million heroin users.
That number only accounts for chronic users, not those that are only occasional users. The most important thing to know when it comes to heroin is what addiction looks like and what can be done about it.
How to tell if it’s Heroin
Heroin is classified as an opiate. Addicts of heroin are said to be “chasing the dragon.” This term relates to the instant euphoria they feel the first time they inject it. The following highs are never as good as the first. But the addict keeps on trying to reach it.
Heroin users tend to find it hard to stay awake; they get a dry mouth and may display a white crustiness at the corners of their lips from this dryness. They also will exhibit slurred speech and may look flushed.
This drug slows breathing, which is why overdose is likely to be a death sentence. The user will also experience confusion and a lack of self-control, which can lead to another dose, and possibly death.
You’re also likely to find drug paraphernalia. This includes syringes, tubing, spoons or even small pipes. It mostly depends on how they are doing it. Heroin can be smoked, injected or snorted. Injection is said to get the drug into the system faster and be the best high.
Heroin Addiction Treatment
It’s hard to let go of an addiction, but when it comes time for an addict to seek help, rehab is the only way to go. Drug rehab offers help through withdrawals, treatments to get over addiction, one on one and group therapy and a chance to learn to better take care of you.
One of the most popular and main treatments for heroin and other opiate addictions is methadone. This drug is taken orally.
Probably the worst part of addiction is withdrawal, which is why it is important to seek professional help when kicking any drug habit. Withdrawal for heroin addicts can be even worse, including nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and muscle spasms. Withdrawal could be part of the reason many addicts find it hard to stop.
On top of the need for rehab, the other most important thing any addict needs is support from their friends and family. Addicts need to know they aren’t alone and that someone is there that loves them and wants them to succeed at getting clean and living a healthier life.