Heroin is an extremely addictive, destructive drug. You might have noticed some changes in a loved one that cause you to suspect drug use. People who have drug or alcohol addictions are rarely honest about their use, so asking them outright probably won’t give you any answers. Instead, you’ll have to carefully observe them and try to figure out if they’re using, and if so, what they’re using. If you suspect heroin abuse, there are common signs of heroin addiction you can look out for in order to help your loved one get the treatment he or she needs.
4 Common Signs of Heroin Addiction
Visible track marks are a huge sign of heroin addiction, but heroin users are often very aware of hiding obvious signs like these. They may wear long-sleeved shirts and pants even in hot weather. Look for more subtle clues that point to addiction, such as:
- Paraphernalia like burnt spoons and rubber tubing
- Continuous nodding off/sleepiness
- Sores on the skin
- Loss of appetite, leading to weight loss
As a concerned family member or friend, you may have to do some sleuthing to find other signs of heroin addiction. While you might feel uncomfortable with this, remember that heroin addiction is a matter of life or death. Anything you can do to help someone who’s dependent on a substance could save a life.
How You Can Help Someone Showing Signs of Heroin Addiction
If you ask your loved one if he or she is using heroin, don’t expect the truth if the person is actually using. People with drug or alcohol addictions very often deny there’s a problem. It’s one of the addictive behaviors that prevents them from seeking help. Sometimes, they come around before it’s too late, but other times, loved ones have to step in.
You have to be honest about the damage the drugs are doing to them and to the people they love. It’s not easy admitting that someone you care about is addicted to heroin, but it’s crucial to face the facts so that you can help.
Let the person know you’re there for him or her when he or she decides to get treatment for the addiction. Be supportive and encouraging, but stand firm when you tell your loved one that he or she must get clean. You’re doing this because you love this person and want him or her to enjoy a healthy, happy life, not one consumed by drugs or alcohol.
Addiction Treatment That Makes a Difference
Here at Crestview Recovery, we’re dedicated to helping people attain sobriety. We provide a wide variety of substance use treatment and individualized plans that take each client’s needs into account. Our trained professionals have your long-term recovery in mind.
Substance use treatment programs include:
- Heroin addiction rehab
- Meth addiction rehab
- Cocaine addiction rehab
- Alcohol addiction rehab
- Opioid addiction rehab
Addiction doesn’t have to control you any longer. Our quality rehab facility can help you overcome your addiction. Contact us today at 866.262.0531—we’re ready to help you begin your recovery.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
