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What Are Signs of Heroin Addiction?

a person sits with their fingers arched in front of their face as they wonder about the signs of heroin addiction

Heroin abuse continues to affect millions of teens and adults each year, despite the known dangers of this addictive narcotic. Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction can be difficult, as many people will hide their abuse from friends and family. Luckily, there are tell-tale signs that you can look for that indicate a drug problem. If you know someone who is abusing heroin, the best thing they can do for their physical and mental health is to enroll in an addiction treatment center.

At BRC Healthcare, we work with people who are struggling with an addiction to heroin, opioids, alcohol, or other dangerous substances. We are a full-service treatment center with residential and outpatient treatment programs that utilize the latest in behavioral therapies and medical support. Residents will work with a certified therapist in group and private therapy sessions in a discreet facility surrounded by their peers and caring professionals. To learn more about our Austin, TX heroin rehab center, send us a message online or call 888.559.2036 today to speak to our friendly team.

Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction

Recognizing the signs of heroin abuse is not as easy as you might think. Sometimes the signs of heroin addiction are very clear, such as needle and track marks on arms and legs. Other times the signs are more subtle, like experiencing mood swings, depression, or memory loss. Millions of people still feel ashamed or embarrassed over their addiction and will hide their abuse from those closest to them.

If you suspect a friend or loved one is abusing heroin, here are some of the common signs of heroin addiction that you can look for:

  • Physical signs of heroin abuse include flushed skin, runny nose, nausea and vomiting, slurred speech, balance and coordination problems, tremors, and odd smells on the person. Keep your eye out for drug paraphernalia like burnt spoons, needles, and glass pipes or bongs around the home.
  • Behavioral symptoms of heroin use are harder to notice, but there are clear signs, such as a drop in personal hygiene, skipping school or work, becoming more secretive, and pulling away from friends and family. You may notice they are hanging out with different friends or start wearing long sleeves and pants during the summer.

If you spot any of these warning signs of heroin addiction, the safest way to recover is by enrolling in a heroin rehab facility. At BRC Healthcare, our facility welcomes all who are ready to stop abusing heroin and regain their health and vitality.

The Benefits of Enrolling in a Heroin Rehab Center

If you know someone who is abusing heroin and ready to accept help, here are some of the benefits of enrolling in a heroin rehab center:

  • Addiction education – Our residents will learn all about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse so they can understand what heroin is doing to them and what it takes to stop the abuse. Addiction is a treatable, lifelong illness where symptoms can appear at any time. The skills patients learn during therapy will help them maintain their sobriety no matter how stressful life becomes.
  • Medication-assisted treatments – To ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings, medical staff will administer medications that are approved to treat addiction through an accredited treatment program. These medications are only meant as temporary relief. As your symptoms begin to fade, medical staff will reduce the dosage of medications over time to avoid any negative side effects.
  • Psychotherapy – Talk therapy is crucial for people to succeed in their recovery efforts. Clients will participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy and other types of therapies that have proven results in treating addiction. Other types of therapies used in addiction recovery include:
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
  • Meditation, creative expression, and other holistic therapies

Knowing the warning signs of heroin addiction can prevent a loved one from destroying their mind and body. Heroin is a dangerous, fast-acting narcotic that, if left untreated, will cause permanent health complications, severe psychological problems, and a shortened lifespan.

BRC Healthcare’s Austin, TX Heroin Rehab Center

At BRC Healthcare, our team is familiar with the signs of heroin addiction, and our programs have a high rate of success in helping individuals reach their recovery goals. An experienced therapist will sit with each resident to run a full assessment to determine the right program for the severity of their symptoms. Those who can’t control their drug use will start therapy in our residential treatment program until they can confidently abstain from heroin abuse with minimal supervision.

If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, today is the perfect time to make a new start. Contact us at 888.559.2036 today to schedule a tour of our accredited heroin addiction treatment center.