Heroin is a highly addictive opiate drug that is among the most commonly abused drugs in the United States. Heroin is synthesized from morphine, a substance extracted from the opium poppy plant. Heroin is generally found as a white or brown powder, and it can be injected, smoked or snorted. In addition to the many dangerous side effect associated with heroin abuse, the use of needles brings with it the risk of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. Regular heroin use causes tolerance and dependence. Tolerance refers to the brain and body getting used to the effects of the drug so that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. The cycle of dangerous increases in dose and regularity of use can lead to overdose and death.
Detoxification Is Only the First Step in Heroin Addiction Recovery
On the surface, detox may seem like the cure for heroin addiction. Many who struggle with heroin addiction might feel that if they could only put an end to the physical addiction, they are strong enough to stay away from the drug. While this is an understandable thought, it is rarely, if ever, true. Addiction is not a solely physical phenomenon but instead affects individuals psychologically and emotionally. Without treatment for all aspects of heroin addiction true recovery is unlikely to occur.
Detox is the process by which a toxic substance is completely removed from the body. Abruptly ending heroin use can be extremely dangerous. Once the body becomes dependent on a substance like heroin, the shock of being deprived of it can be deadly. If not fatal, the body’s reaction to a lack of heroin can be severe. The symptoms of this reaction are known as withdrawal symptoms. Heroin withdrawal can be dangerous, and the detox process should not be attempted alone. The trained medical staff at a rehab facility can provide treatment and supervision that will keep you as safe and comfortable as possible throughout the process.
Therapy, Counseling and True Recovery from Heroin Addiction
While detox addresses the physical side of heroin addiction, additional treatment including counseling and therapy is important when it comes to addressing the psychological and behavioral side of addiction. Once the body is clear of heroin, continued support and treatment through therapy and group counseling is necessary for true recovery. Detox can get you off heroin physically, but full rehab and treatment will help you stay off of it for good.
Get Help for Heroin Addiction Now
If you or somebody close to you struggles with heroin addiction, it is important that you get help. Trying to quit on your own is dangerous and unlikely to be successful. Rehab that includes detox, withdrawal treatment and therapy provides a good chance for lasting recovery. Call our 24 hour toll-free helpline to speak to a trained addiction counselor who can help you find the treatment you need. Don’t wait another day to get help. Call now.
