Most people who abuse heroin will go to great lengths to hide their abuse from friends and loved ones, making it challenging to recognize when they have a problem. The warning signs of a heroin addiction include physical and behavioral changes that are easy to spot if you know what to look for. Those who abuse heroin will experience changes in their physical appearance and potentially develop life-threatening illnesses if the abuse continues.
At Arkview Recovery Center, we work with people from all walks of life who are struggling with an addiction to heroin, cocaine, alcohol, or other dangerous substances. Our team has experience treating all types of addiction and the underlying causes that are fueling it. Patients will work with a behavioral therapist in group and private therapy sessions to develop new coping skills to manage their symptoms and triggers. For more information about our heroin addiction treatment program, call 717.744.0756, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Drug Use
Heroin is a potent semi-synthetic opioid made from the poppy plant Papaver somniferum. It looks like a fine white or brown powder that is dissolved in water and then injected, snorted, or inhaled. Its effects are fast-acting and cause intense euphoria and well-being that can be very addicting, especially for those who live with depression or experience daily stress.
Heroin addiction symptoms include physical signs that can vary depending on how they abuse the substance. Those who inject heroin directly into the bloodstream will have puncture marks and track lines on their arms, legs, and other areas. They may wear long sleeves or pants to hide their abuse; some people inject heroin between their fingers and toes. If they smoke heroin, it can leave burn marks on their fingers and lips, and it can leave a sweet or chemical-like smell on their clothes or person.
At Arkview Recovery, we offer heroin addiction treatment for individuals who are abusing this dangerous substance and need help quitting. Our programs include residential and outpatient treatment programs that utilize behavioral and holistic therapies and medication-assisted treatments for an all-encompassing recovery experience.
5 Warning Signs of a Heroin Addiction
Recognizing the warning signs of drug use is imperative if you know someone abusing heroin or other drugs. If the person continues abusing heroin, it can lead to serious physical complications, cognitive decline, and death.
Here are five warning signs of a heroin addiction that you should be familiar with:
- Physical warning signs – Heroin abuse leaves behind tell-tale physical signs that include bloodshot eyes, pinpoint pupils, sudden weight loss, constantly feeling itchy, and other changes in their appearance. Other physical symptoms include:
- Flushed skin
- Sleeping all of the time
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
- Finding glass pipes, syringes, or other drug paraphernalia around the home
- Psychological symptoms – Abusing heroin for an extended period can produce cognitive decline and other serious mental health issues. Depression and paranoia are common with heroin abuse, as is trouble regulating emotions and behaviors. Heroin abuse causes brain shrinkage in the area of the brain that regulates these functions.
- Behavioral signs – People who abuse heroin will begin to act secretively and pull away from friends and family. You may notice they experience frequent mood swings, failing grades or poor work performance, and a decline in personal hygiene.
- Cognitive signs – Heroin abuse significantly impacts a person’s ability to think clearly. It can also make people feel disoriented and have difficulty making complex decisions. Heroin abuse can also cause a lack of self-control, make it harder to pay attention for long periods, and negatively affect short-term memory.
- Financial signs – One clear sign of heroin addiction is having money issues. Drug abuse can be expensive and affect your ability to perform at your best, leading to financial ruin, unemployment, and homelessness.
If you recognize any of these warning signs of drug use, the safest way to beat the addiction and get healthy is by enrolling in an addiction treatment facility. They have the knowledge and skills to treat the addiction safely and significantly reduce the risk of relapse during the program and long into the future.
Learn More About Heroin Addiction Symptoms at Arkview Recovery Center
At Arkview Recovery Center, we support men and women ready to stop letting heroin addiction consume their lives. During our heroin addiction treatment program, patients will work with a behavioral therapist using several beneficial therapies.
Take that first step toward a better life by calling 717.744.0756 today to discover how our heroin addiction treatment programs can support your recovery journey.
Kyle is Lead Therapist at Arkview Recovery Center. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has years of experience working directly with individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health disorders. Being in long term recovery himself, Kyle is very passionate about the recovery process. He is heavily involved in the local recovery community in which he enjoys his commitments to service and giving back. His specialty is in group therapy and developing clinical staff. Kyle brings to Arkview a holistic approach to recovery, specializing in mindfulness, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
