Heroin addiction is a terrifying disease. Many people become addicted the first time they take this powerful opiate. What may have seemed like a simple experiment can become a life-destroying disease almost immediately. The complicated psychological nature of heroin addiction may also make it difficult for a person to seek the help they so desperately need.
Why Is It So Hard to Ask for Help with Heroin Addiction?
Heroin addiction is a combination of at least two disorders. The body becomes physically dependent on heroin very quickly. It replaces naturally occurring “feel good” chemicals in the brain, meaning the user will feel a wide range of potentially severe withdrawal symptoms when it leaves their system. Physical pain, flu-like symptoms and skin crawls might cause a person with a severe sickness to seek a doctor’s help.
But heroin is also psychological disease. It chemically re-wires certain neural pathways, literally changing the way the brain works. Instead of seeking help, heroin addicts are more likely to hide their disease, diminish it, make excuses for their behavior and find ways to treat their condition with more drugs. This almost always involves dishonesty with close friends and loved ones and even illegal activities that could lead to prosecution. Shame can also be a strong deterrent to getting help. The addicted mind tells the addict anything it needs to in order to get more heroin. This is one of the main reasons it is so hard for addicts to ask for help.
Where to Go for Heroin Addiction Help
Recovery from heroin addiction is difficult, but definitely possible with the right help. The most effective treatment programs address the physical addiction, the psychological addiction and any underlying or co-occurring psychological disorders that may have led to the addiction in the first place and may be undermining recovery. Not all treatment programs are equal and it is important that the addict finds the best possible treatment for their unique condition. Don’t be afraid to ask difficult questions of any program you are considering. Does the program offer Medically Supervised Detox to help relieve the worst symptoms of withdrawal? Do they offer Dual Diagnosis Treatment to identify any other conditions you may have? Do they have a fully developed rehab program to bring healing to your mind, body and spirit? The best programs offer all of this in a confidential, respectful, restful and comfortable environment.
Get Heroin Addiction Help Today
Our toll-free helpline is operated 24 hours a day and our specially trained counselors are ready to help you find the help you need. Call any time and let us answer your questions and help you discover a future free of heroin. Your health, your relationships and your life are waiting for you on the other side of this valley. We can help you find the freedom you crave. Don’t waste another day. Call today.
