Heroin addiction is a devastating yet a reversible condition that may damage both the psychological and physical condition of a person. It is considered as one of the most painful addictions in the world and heroin rehab can be a lifelong process.
Heroin Addiction
The number of those who suffer from heroin and opiate addiction in the United States is both shocking and unprecedented. More than half a million over age 12 years old have reported to have used the substance at least once in their life. This means that every year, there are thousands of individuals are trying the drug for the first time. And because heroin is highly addictive, it is no surprise that the numbers just keep on increasing.
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an addictive drug derived from morphine which is obtained from the opium poppy. As a morphine derivative, a drug that is used medically to alleviate severe physical pain, heroin provides the same effect as it interferes with the brain’s ability to perceive pain. Before, it was introduced in the market as a substitute for morphine because it was thought to be safer and less addicting. But now, we know that it is the opposite. Heroin is much more addictive than morphine and because of this, it has been estimated that heroin is one of the most addictive substances ever created.
Generally, heroin comes in powder form, color ranging from white to dark brown. It may also be presented as a tar-like substance, a kind of heroin known as the Mexican black tar heroin. Heroin users commonly inject or snort the drug while some would heat them on foil and then inhale the smoke with a straw.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
For heavy users, heroin withdrawal can begin as early as 4 hours after cessation. Without another does, the symptoms worsen. Known as the “dope sickness”, the anticipation of trauma only adds to the need of taking another dose. This then becomes a cycle of nightmare of anxiety and fear.
For those who are brave enough to face the undesired withdrawal effects, the condition deteriorates over the next 48 to 72 hours and then slowly resolves. It should be noted that this does not only involves psychological cravings but also severe physical symptoms.
Heroin withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Restlessness and irritability
- Insomnia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremor and shivering
- Restless leg
- Excessive sweating
- Repeated yawning
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Chills
Heroin Rehab Options
Treatment for heroin addiction is difficult. It involves various strategies for treating this substance addiction. Before an individual can enter into the core of heroin rehab program, he or she should first complete the drug detoxification process. This is where an individual go through the withdrawal under the supervision of medical professionals, monitoring the detoxification process to make sure it is safe. This step is essential because the physical dependence must be eliminated and to ensure that the patient is stable to continue with the counseling.
There are 2 major types of drug rehabs for heroin and opiate addiction: outpatient and residential treatment. Although both of these have detoxification, therapy, counseling and aftercare programs, each is designed to help a particular type of person.
Outpatient Drug Rehabs. This type of heroin rehab is ideal for people who cannot leave their responsibilities at school, at home or at work. This is also the drug rehab option for those who are not willing to enter into residential treatment. As an outpatient, they are required to attend the treatment during the day and then are free to do as they please for the rest of the day. However, it is important that the patient lives in a low-risk environment to prevent relapse.
Residential Drug Rehabs. This involves living in a treatment facility for a period of at least 30 days. It is a comprehensive treatment experience where patients are monitored and is cared for 24/7. Moreover, they are required to get involved with various activities designed to change their behavior and giving them tools they need to maintain a sober life.
Florida drug rehabs provide helpful and beneficial ways in overcoming heroin addiction. Find your local heroin rehab and decide the treatment option that would suit your needs.
