It’s no secret that addiction is a serious problem. Every day, people struggling with addiction face many challenges. They may feel hopeless and helpless, like there’s no way out. But there is hope. Heroin addiction treatment can help those who are struggling with addiction change their lives. It can provide a path out of addiction and a way forward with healthy coping skills. Emotional support and evidence-based care help those in treatment work through the underlying causes of addiction in a safe and supportive environment. Reach out to a heroin addiction treatment program in Florida today to learn more.
How Heroin Addiction Develops
Heroin is an illegal, highly addictive drug made from morphine, a natural substance taken from the seedpod of the poppy plant. It can be a white or brown powder or a black sticky substance known as “black tar heroin.” People usually inject, sniff, or smoke it. When people use heroin, they feel a”rush (a surge of pleasure), followed by feelings of relaxation and contentment. However, these effects are short-lived and are followed by other effects, including drowsiness and slowed thinking and movement.
As time goes on, people need more and more of the drug just to feel normal. This is called tolerance. People who are addicted to heroin often have other mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety disorders. They may turn to drugs to try to self-medicate their symptoms. Treatment for mental health disorders and addiction generally requires specialized care from providers who understand the relationship between these conditions.
What Heroin Addiction Treatment Involves
Treatment for heroin addiction generally includes behavioral therapy and medical care. Why is medical care so important? First, because heroin addiction is a chronic disease, people will likely need long-term care to manage their symptoms and prevent relapse. Second, because heroin withdrawal can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, people in treatment may need medication to help them through the detoxification process.
Behavioral therapy offers people the opportunity to work with a therapist to identify and address the underlying causes of addiction. It can also help people develop healthy coping skills and build a support system. Treatment generally takes place in an outpatient or inpatient setting, depending on the severity of the addiction and other factors.
During therapy, people will work to:
- Identify triggers and learn how to avoid or cope with them
- Recognize and manage heroin cravings
- Avoid places or people who may trigger heroin use
- Develop healthy coping skills
- Address underlying mental health disorders
The Benefits of Heroin Addiction Treatment
Treatment for heroin addiction can save lives—literally. An overdose can cause respiratory failure, which can lead to death. Heroin addiction treatment can also help people:
- Regain control of their lives
- Build a support system
- Learn healthy coping skills
- Address underlying mental health disorders
- Get on the path to recovery
In addition to saving lives, treatment can also improve quality of life. Employment, relationships, and physical health can all improve with treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction, reach out for help today. There are heroin addiction treatment programs in Florida that can help you or your loved one get on the path to recovery.
Find a Heroin Addiction Treatment Program Today
Heroin addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide every year. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to opioids like heroin, don’t wait—get help today at an accredited heroin detox center. Early intervention can make a big difference in long-term outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help. With professional help, those in recovery can learn how to live sober, productive lives.