Heroin is a highly addictive drug that has dramatically impacted many communities for decades. Because of its highly addictive properties, heroin hurts not only those addicted to it but also their loved ones. By knowing the signs of heroin addiction in a loved one, you may be able to help them overcome a substance use disorder.
At Bonfire Behavioral Health, we proudly offer several treatment options for your loved one who may be suffering from heroin addiction. Often, addressing and healing a loved one’s heroin addiction requires the support of experienced professionals, such as our team. If you’re interested in learning more about our heroin addiction treatment, contact us online or at 603.617.4815.
Signs of Heroin Addiction
The effects of heroin can be scary. When somebody is in active heroin addiction, the physical and behavioral changes they undergo and exhibit can be quite alarming and dangerous.
Indicators of a loved one’s heroin addiction include:
- Changes in physical appearance – Many people in active heroin addiction stop paying attention to their appearance. This can be through rapid weight loss due to a lack of appetite or frequent nausea, or drastic outfit changes.
- Track marks – The most common way to consume heroin is through injection. Therefore, it is best to look out for needle track marks to be visible on a person’s hands, feet, arms, and legs.
- Infection: If a person has patches of dark skin, that can be a sign of infection and inflammation from needles.
- Changes in behavior – If your loved one is actively doing heroin, they may behave erratically and aggressively. Look out for changes in their behavior, particularly if they become increasingly more irritable.
Part of a loved one’s heroin addiction includes mood changes. For example, if they were extremely happy before starting heroin, they may appear extremely moody and defeated. If they had life goals set for themselves, they might no longer be interested in them. The effects of heroin can lead somebody to lose interest in their professional goals, familial responsibilities, and hobbies.
Many heroin users are not worried about the risks associated with heroin use, whether financially, physically, or mentally. Somebody in active addiction might do whatever it takes to finance their dangerous habit. In fact, they may do anything from stealing from loved ones to prostitution. These destructive behaviors can result in the loss of relationships that were once important to the person struggling. They may also engage in risky activities such as sharing needles or injecting unsafely, which puts them at risk for blood-borne diseases such as HIV.
What to Expect from Heroin Addiction Treatment
If all of the signs lead you to believe that your loved one may have a heroin addiction, the best thing you can do for them is lead them towards heroin addiction treatment programs.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is often used to minimize withdrawal symptoms and cravings in heroin addiction treatment programs. Previously, the only medication used for heroin addiction was methadone, which is another highly addictive substance. There are several medications used to help a person detox from heroin. The medication that the provider may choose will depend on a person’s health history, drug experience, and behavioral patterns.
Outpatient treatment with Bonfire Behavioral Health will help you develop healthy coping skills that you can use in real-life situations. We offer a community housing program if you do not have a safe home environment. This way, patients can live in a supportive environment with people who understand their struggles while undergoing treatment.
Explore Heroin Addiction Treatment at Bonfire Behavioral Health
If you believe that your loved one may be addicted to heroin, don’t wait another day to help them face their addiction. Contact us online or call Bonfire Behavioral Health at 603.617.4815 to discuss our heroin addiction treatment options and help your loved one get back on the right track.
