Heroin addiction is becoming a major epidemic across the United States, with more people than ever struggling with an addiction to the illegal street drug. One thing that fuels the addiction fire for heroin is that since many addicts aren’t honest about what drug they’re using, many loved ones are in the dark about how serious their family member’s addiction really is. Heroin is usually injected or smoked, though it can be snorted as well, and depending on the method used, you may even be able to see remnants of the drug or the paraphernalia left behind in a home or vehicle. It’s a fast acting drug, so it’s usually easy to see when someone begins feeling the effects of the drug.
Below are some of the most common signs of heroin addiction that you should watch out for in family members and friends. By knowing the signs early on, you’re not giving the addiction any more power than it already has, and you may be able to get help for yourself or a loved one who needs it.
Many users will have flushed skin and an extremely dry mouth, and they may doze off suddenly. Heroin tends to slow a person’s breathing, which is how a majority of people killed by an overdose die. When they’re awake, they’re not going to be as clear as they used to be. Most likely, their self control will begin to deteriorate. Some of the other common signs include severe itching or nausea, and they may often become ill, thanks to a lowered immune system. This is especially common with heavy use.
The most common red flag is an overall general downward spiral of a person’s life. If they’re showing the symptoms above and are having further problems with family, finances or work, there’s a good chance there’s an addiction involved, and unfortunately, heroin is often the culprit. Someone struggling with an addiction may wear long sleeve shirts to try and cover needle marks, or they may avoid seeing family and friends all together.
If you find yourself facing heroin addiction, or have concerns about a friend or family member, it’s important that you accept the information in front of you. It can feel easier to simply accept the lies about behavior than address it, but the sooner you can get help for your loved one, the better off they will be in the long run.
If you or a loved one have an addiction to heroin, it’s extremely important to get them help as soon as possible. The Springboard Center is prepared to deal with a wide range of chemical dependencies, and their medical detox program will help ease you out of the grip of the drug and into sobriety, so you can face your treatment and recovery with a healthy body and clear mind. Heroin addiction can be deadly, but there is hope. Take charge and call today: 432-620-0255.
