Believe it or not, heroin addiction affects the entire family and can be incredibly destructive to the user. According to drugabuse.gov, an estimated 4.2 million Americans in 2011, age 12 or older, have used heroin at least once. An approximate 23 percent of those users will then become dependent. Since it’s extremely addictive in nature, the best rehabilitation plan for heroin abusers should include trained professionals and careful supervision.

Addicts often try to hide their habit, but if you suspect a loved one is addicted to heroin, look for the changes in disposition below.

Heroin Addiction: 9 Signs

– A decreased performance in school or work 

– Unkempt appearance or neglected hygiene.

– Many report a distant, glazed look in a heroin user’s eyes with small, constricted pupils

– Withdrawing from family and friends, finding a whole new set of friends

– Hostility or aggressiveness toward others is common, and taking dangerous risks like compulsive spending or stealing

– A loss of interest in hobbies and motivation

– Heroin weakens the immune system making a user more susceptible to infection. Look for a runny nose or labored breathing. Heroin also    causes constipation. Is your loved one reliant on laxatives?

– Memory loss, slurred speech, fatigue, poor motor function, and long heavy extremities

– Needle marks and surface skin infections at the injection site are very common

Heroin Detox and Recovery

Heroin abuse hurts both the user and their family and friends. Rehabilitation is most successful and safe when it includes the assistance of trained professionals.

Help for the loved ones of a user is just as important as help for the user. Seek help, now.  And know that you’re not alone. Call Turning Point Recovery Center, today for more information on our detox program and family support. If you are thinking of detoxing at home, then you must read our “Detoxing at Home” guide. It could be the difference between life and death

~Paul