Addiction is a disease that takes over the mind and body. The person suffering from it loses control, which will lead to the use of heroin or the need to use it. Unlike other diseases, addiction is a hidden one.
If this is a problem you or someone around you is facing, you should be aware of the dangers of heroin. With this knowledge, you or the person suffering it will seek substance abuse treatment rather than hiding it.
Keep reading as we tell the common signs of heroin addiction below. Let’s get into the awareness information here with this article.
Changes in Sleeping Patterns
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It is not uncommon for individuals abusing heroin to experience drastic changes in their sleeping patterns. Lack of sleep can be a direct result of heroin use as the stimulant effect of the drug can cause them to feel alert and energized even without rest.
Insomnia is also linked to heroin addiction as users tend to become preoccupied with finding more of the drug. This can lead to a disrupted sleeping pattern.
As a result of restlessness, heroin addicts will often be sleeping during the day and staying awake at night. These are all common signs of heroin addiction and should be addressed immediately to prevent further substance abuse.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Heroin suppresses one’s appetite, so those addicted to the drug may have an unhealthy body weight. Furthermore, they may also have a negligent attitude towards their nutrition.
It is common for heroin users to consume large amounts of unhealthy junk food rather than preparing balanced meals. When problem users stop opting for proper nutrition, it can lead to weight loss.
This weight may be depleted from fat or muscle, depending on individual metabolism. This makes the user undergo drastic weight reduction in a short amount of time, losing weight in both face and body.
In addition, they may often become anorexic within just a few months. Furthermore, it is accompanied by looking pale and displaying circles under their eyes. So if you suspect someone is showing these signs, it’s best to seek professional help right away.
Sudden Change in Financial Situation
One of the key signs or the factor of heroin addiction is nothing but, an intense craving for the drug. This causes the users to spend more and more money to obtain the heroin. They may also engage in unethical behaviours to get money to buy the drug, including:
- theft
- fraud
- selling of items
- borrowing of money
- requesting external financial help
Because of the high cost of buying heroin on the black market, individuals may find themselves struggling to pay bills or even skipping out on important things like rent. They may even resort to desperate measures to acquire more and more drugs.
These can all add up to a financial burden that creates a sudden financial crisis for someone who finds themselves addicted to heroin.
Having Drug or Paraphernalia Around the Home
Having drugs or paraphernalia around the home is a common sign of addiction. Common indicators may include
- smaller glass pipes
- a metal spoon with burned edges
- syringes
- cotton filters
- baggies
- aluminum foil with burn marks
- blank capsules
These are all pieces of equipment that can be used to prepare and inject heroin. In addition, heroin users are also likely to hoard small bags or wallets that may contain traces of the drug.
Furthermore, it can also be accompanied by other drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana. Recognizing these things will help identify if the person is a heroin user and must get them the help they need.
Decreased Hygiene
Decreased hygiene is another common indicator of heroin addiction. People struggling with this type of dependency may neglect basic hygiene, such as:
- showering
- brushing teeth
- combing hair
- changing clothes
In addition, they may also be seen through the presence of sores, infections, bruises, or needle marks from their injections. A person may also typically wear long sleeves and long pants, even in warm environments, to hide tracks from injection sites.
Thus, decreased hygiene can be a key sign in identifying a person’s addiction to heroin and should be monitored for those suspected of struggling with these drugs.
Constant Secretive Behavior
Secretive behavior is one of the most evident signs of heroin addiction. This can involve activities such as:
- staying out late
- avoiding conversation
- lying about their whereabouts
- making up excuses or stories
They might also withdraw from loved ones and be dishonest when asked specific questions about their activities. Also, heroin addicts may become more isolated and have frequent mood swings, anxiety, and paranoia.
Additionally, they may start to lie about their level of drug use, including the frequency and amount they are taking. What’s worse is that they might go to extreme lengths to conceal their addiction from others.
These behaviors are often indicative of a person’s struggle to keep their heroin use a secret. Therefore, it can further signify an individual’s need for heroin treatment as they attempt to reverse the effects of their addiction.
Persistently Feeling Tired
People addicted to heroin often report the feeling of constantly being exhausted. Experiencing the inability to concentrate, mood swings and an overall disinterest in things they used to find enjoyable can also be signs of addiction.
Physical symptoms include an increased tolerance for pain and a slowed breathing rate. Moreover, they may even suffer from kidney and liver damage.
Using heroin can lead to mental exhaustion, as it reduces energy levels and makes people feel lethargic and sleepy. All of these can affect daily life including work, school, and socialization.
Cravings or Opiates
Heroin cravings are one of the most obvious signs of addiction to the drug. Furthermore, these cravings are intense as well as can be very hard to resist. They involve an almost overwhelming need to use the drug and the hunger can last hours or even days.
This is usually a sign that the person’s tolerance has built up, so they will require more of the drug to experience the same effects. It is important to take these signs seriously and ask for help from a professional if necessary.
To help those who are suffering from addiction, read and learn more from Nirvana Recovery today!
Exploring the Most Common Signs of Heroin Addiction
Drug addiction is a serious and potentially deadly condition that affects millions of people. By recognizing the common signs of heroin addiction and taking action to help those you care about, you can make a huge difference in their lives.
Don’t delay! If you suspect a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to get them the help they need.
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