Heroin is among the most highly addictive and most deadly drugs. There are many surprising facts, perhaps little-known facts, about heroin use, addiction, and recovery. One aspect of recovery is concerned with breaking the addiction. The professional team at San Antonio Recovery Center understands addiction, the downward spiral, and the path to recovery.
Do you need to know more about heroin addiction rehab? Call us today at 866.957.7885.
Effects of Heroin Use
It does not matter how you use heroin. The result is always the same. You can become addicted after just one use of the drug. There are a variety of short-term and long-term effects, each one with potentially devastating effects on the individual with the addiction issues. Some short-term effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin flushing
- Mental functioning issues
- Severe itching
Some of the long-term effects of heroin abuse include:
- Body abscesses
- Pneumonia and other potential lung complications
- Liver or kidney disease
- Collapsed veins in individuals that inject heroin
- Damaged tissues inside the nose in those individuals that snort or sniff the drug
The side effects of using heroin do not begin to describe how dangerous the drug is and the other effects of addiction. However, San Antonio Recovery Center understands the devastating effects of heroin addiction and offers comprehensive treatment to help break the addiction cycle.
Shocking Heroin Addiction Statistics
Heroin is a highly addictive drug that is capable of causing slowed or shallow breathing, coma, and even death. There has been a recent surge in the use of heroin across all income levels. The treatment team at the San Antonio Recovery Center understands that heroin addiction affects people of all ages and income levels, and our staff welcomes clients into heroin detox and then a comprehensive addiction treatment program.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2018 alone there were an estimated 670,000 people aged 12 or older with a heroin use disorder in the United States. That’s less than 1% of Americans age 12 or older. Of those people, about 74% reported using heroin in the last year.
Additionally, SAMHSA noted that there were an estimated 81,000 first-time users of heroin aged 12 or older in 2018. Young adults aged 18–25 are particularly vulnerable to developing a heroin use disorder—more than one-third of people who have ever used it meet the criteria for addiction.
Sadly, the number of heroin-related deaths has more than quadrupled between 2010 and 2018. One particular danger is the fact that users often use another drug or drink alcohol along with using heroin.
Another shocking fact is that using heroin often increases the risk of dangerous risky behaviors. Injecting the drug puts the person at risk for HIV, hepatitis C, or other serious health issues. Some people commit illegal acts for money to purchase heroin. This can lead to run-ins with the law and potential jail time.
Breaking an Addiction to Heroin
Breaking an addiction to heroin is an incredibly challenging journey that requires support and professional help. It is not something an individual can do on their own. Seeking heroin detox in a reputable treatment center is often the first step in an individualized treatment plan. This provides a safe and controlled environment for breaking free from the grips of heroin addiction.
Now, you might be wondering, “How long does it take to break a heroin addiction?” Well, the answer to that question is not a simple one. The duration of recovery varies from person to person. However, receiving detox care and comprehensive treatment at a specialized heroin addiction rehab program is crucial in initiating the recovery process.
Recovery from heroin addiction is a unique path for each individual. It’s important to take a holistic approach to healing and recovery, addressing not only the addiction itself but also the underlying factors that contribute to it. By using a holistic approach to treating the whole person, and not just the addiction, true and lasting recovery can be achieved.
How Does Heroin Addiction Treatment Work?
Heroin addiction treatment is a process that helps an individual overcome their dependence on the drug. Treatment typically begins with detoxification, followed by counseling and therapy to help the individual understand their addiction and how to cope with triggers and cravings.
Some people may require medication to manage withdrawal symptoms or help with the detoxification process. Aftercare and support groups are also important components of treatment, as they can provide ongoing assistance and accountability. Treatment for heroin addiction is typically done on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on the severity of the addiction. Some treatment facilities also include 12-step programs for additional support.
Most treatment programs last for 30 days, but some may be shorter or longer, depending on the needs of the individual. relapse prevention is an important part of treatment, as it helps individuals identify their triggers and develop coping strategies to avoid using again. Heroin addiction is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. With the right help, people can overcome their addiction and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Get Help Today and Break the Chains of Addiction
Taking the first step toward stopping the vicious cycle of heroin addiction starts with contacting us for an assessment and development of a treatment plan based on your own needs after you complete the detox process. It is possible to start the healing process. Addiction therapy services such as meditation therapy, recreational therapy, family therapy, and animal therapy are some options.
Begin your new path to freedom and break free from the devastating effects of addiction, including heroin addiction. Contact San Antonio Recovery Center today at 866.957.7885, or contact us online to get started on overcoming your addiction by going to a quality rehab program.
