Heroin is an illegal opiate drug made from morphine. It can be injected, snorted or smoked to produce a euphoric high. Heroin addiction is a serious problem that results from regular use and physical and psychological dependence.
Quitting Heroin on Your Own
Although many “do-it-yourself” treatments and detox programs are available, quitting heroin use on your own is not advised. Most “do-it-yourself” programs only address detoxification. Detox is a necessary part of quitting heroin, but detox and recovery are not synonymous. Although your body is cleansed of heroin toxins, dependence and addiction have not been addressed. A high percentage of “do-it-yourself” remedies lead to relapse. In addition to the higher relapse rate, individuals who stop the use of heroin on their own experience severe withdrawal symptoms that include the following:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Bone and muscle pain
- Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea
- Excessive sweating
- Heroin cravings
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
If heroin use is stopped while under medical supervision, doctors can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and ensure patient comfort and safety. This produces a greater chance for a successful withdrawal.
What Heroin Rehabilitation Should Look Like
If you or a loved one is suffering from heroin addiction, please seek help immediately. Do not try to stop using heroin on your own. Because heroin addiction is such a severe issue, the best option for rehab is an inpatient treatment center. A good rehab program will offer the following:
- Medically supervised detox services. Detox rids the body of all of the heroin-related toxins and helps end physical addiction. During this stage of recovery, medical professionals are available to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and to monitor physical stability.
- Inpatient therapy and counseling. Inpatient therapy and counseling is vital to a recovering heroin user’s recovery. Professional psychologists and therapists will help patients deal with the emotions associated with quitting heroin use. They will address the issues that led to heroin use and will provide strategies for avoiding relapse. Therapy can come in a variety of forms including group therapy, art therapy, equine therapy, individual counseling sessions and behavior modification therapy.
- Aftercare. After leaving an inpatient rehab facility, the patient should receive aftercare. Aftercare includes outpatient therapy or counseling sessions, group sessions and support groups. Aftercare provides support and accountability for the recovering heroin user.
Heroin Addiction Help
If you or a loved one is suffering from heroin addiction, we are here 24 hours a day to answer any questions you might have. We can help you find a treatment center that will address your physical, psychological and emotional needs and provide a lasting recovery. If you are concerned about treatment costs, our professionals will help you verify insurance benefits. Call our toll-free helpline today. One phone call can change your life forever.
