Heroin Addiction
The popularity of certain drugs come and go according their price and availability, but through the years, the opiate heroin has remained one of the most widely used illicit substances in the world. Through injecting, smoking or snorting heroin, thousands of people begin using the drug every day, despite its addictive nature and the serious risks associated with it.
How Addictive is Heroin?
Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs in the world. Over 25% of those who use heroin on a "casual" basis become addicted to the drug. That percentage is higher than rates of addiction to other major drugs including cocaine and marijuana. In fact, only caffeine and nicotine are considered to be more addictive than heroin.
Signs that an individual is using heroin
There are several classic symptoms and signs exhibited with those who are caught up in the midst of a heroin addiction. Those with family or friends who may be involved with heroin should learn this information and seek help for the individual as soon as possible. Tell-tale signs of heroin use include:
- Infections or scabs around the body
- Poor, unkempt physical appearance
- Lying to friends and family members
- Stealing money to obtain drugs
- Inability to keep commitments
- Long, unexplained absences
- Sudden deterioration of work or school performance
The hazards of heroin addiction
Heroin is one of the most dangerous drugs in the world because of all the potential health hazards associated with its use. In addition to the general toll it takes on the body and the mind, there is also the exposure to infectious diseases, most prominently HIV/AIDS. Sharing needles among heroin users has led to a high rate of this disease, and others, among addicts.
Also, the unpredictably of the drug has led to many overdoses. When an addict buys heroin off the street, they often do not know the strength of the dose they are receiving, or whether or not it has been mixed or "cut" with toxic materials.
Getting help for the heroin addict
Because few heroin addicts will admit to anyone that they have a drug problem, and will want to continue using the drug at all costs, a drug intervention may be required. Interventions must be held only after consulting a professional interventionist and should take place in a safe, non-threatening location. Provided that the individual comes to grips with his addiction, the next step is drug rehabilitation and a treatment facility that understands the special needs of the heroin addict. In drug rehab, the individual will get help with the physical and psychological dependence on the drug, and learn the skills needed to re-enter their old lives without fear of relapse.
Michael's House is a residential drug treatment facility that is committed to rebuilding the lives of those who have become addicted to heroin. Through detoxification, counseling and overall drug treatment for the body and the spirit, Michael's House achieves great things for those who may have lost all hope. Contact Michael's House today at 1-877-345-8494 , and get a second chance on life.
