Heroin addiction is a severe and life-altering disease that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. If you suspect a friend is struggling with heroin addiction, it can be challenging to know what to do or say.
It’s essential to recognize the symptoms of heroin addiction in a friend so that you can help them seek the necessary heroin addiction treatment. Learning the signs of heroin addiction and how you can help your friend may lead them to lasting wellness.
BrightView offers heroin addiction treatment that is tailored to each individual’s needs. This can include detox, therapy, medication assisted treatment, and support groups. With the right treatment plan and support system in place, recovery from heroin addiction is possible.
Call 888.501.9865 today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive treatment options for heroin addiction.
Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction
Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug that can quickly take hold of an individual’s life. This illegal substance is typically injected, snorted, or smoked to produce a powerful high that can lead to dependence and addiction.
Heroin addiction is a complex disease that affects the brain and body. It’s essential to recognize the symptoms of heroin addiction in a friend so that you can help them seek the necessary heroin addiction treatment.
Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction symptoms fall into three categories: physical, behavioral, and psychological. Some common signs of heroin addiction include the following:
Physical Symptoms
Heroin addiction can cause several physical symptoms in your friend, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Constricted pupils
- Itchy skin
- Runny nose
- Constipation
Respiratory suppression and slowed breathing are also a dangerous side effect of heroin use that can lead to overdose and death.
Behavioral Symptoms
Your friend may also exhibit behavioral symptoms if they are struggling with heroin addiction. These can include:
- Decreased motivation
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Secretive behavior
Changes in appearance are also common, such as weight loss, track marks on the skin from injecting heroin, and poor hygiene.
Psychological Symptoms
Heroin addiction can also affect your friend’s psychological well-being. Some common psychological symptoms of heroin addiction include:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
Memory loss can also occur, making it difficult for your friend to remember important events or conversations.
Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction
Recognizing heroin addiction signs can be difficult, but it’s important to know what to look for. Some common signs of heroin addiction include:
- Changes in behavior or mood
- Isolating themselves from friends and family
- Spending money on drugs instead of necessities
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Changes in appearance
Another common sign of heroin addiction is making excuses, which is a common sign that a person is in denial about their substance use and behavior.
How You Can Help
If you suspect a friend is struggling with heroin addiction, it’s essential to approach them in a supportive and non-judgmental manner. Here are some steps you can take to help your friend:
Start the Conversation
Talk to your friend about your concerns. Be honest and direct, but also show that you care about their well-being.
Offer Support
Let your friend know that you are there to support them. Offer to help them find heroin addiction treatment or attend support groups with them.
Encourage Professional Help
Encourage your friend to seek professional help for their heroin addiction. BrightView offers outpatient heroin addiction treatment that is individualized to each patient’s needs.
Be Patient
Recovery from heroin addiction is a long and challenging process. Be patient and offer your support throughout your friend’s journey.
Call BrightView Today to Start Heroin Addiction Treatment
Heroin addiction is a severe and life-altering disease that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. By recognizing the symptoms of heroin addiction in a friend, you can help them seek the necessary heroin addiction treatment.
Contact BrightView today at 888.501.9865 or online to learn more about our individualized heroin addiction treatment options.
