Millions of people in the United States struggle with opioid addiction. Many who develop prescription opioid painkiller addiction turn to heroin and quickly develop dependence. Others may experiment with heroin and find themselves addicted after a short time–and sometimes after just one use. In fact, an estimated 80% of heroin addicts began their addiction by abusing prescription painkillers.
Heroin is a powerfully addictive substance. People who develop heroin addiction require professional addiction treatment. After completing, they must find ongoing support to avoid relapse.
Heroin addiction is a complex condition. During treatment, people must receive evidence-based therapies to address the roots of their substance use. When people receive high-quality care and continuing support, they can put the disease of addiction behind them and work toward a healthier future.
This article will give you information about heroin addiction and treatment. You will learn what to expect during heroin rehab in Pompano Beach FL, and how to find help.
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists now to learn about our drug and alcohol addiction rehab programs.
Heroin Addiction: An Overview
Heroin is a potent, illicit opioid. Users ingest it by smoking or injecting it. Once inside the body, heroin quickly reaches the brain. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain.
Heroin affects parts of the brain related to emotional regulation, pain control, and pleasure. Users experience euphoria, which is a rush of warmth, pleasure, and contentment.
People may like the way they feel while using heroin. The intense pleasurable effects of heroin can make people want to use it over and over again.
In a short period, heroin can change the way a person’s brain works. These changes can make it very hard for someone to stop using heroin. People who develop heroin addiction will continue to use it, even when it causes severe, even life-threatening consequences.
People with heroin addiction must receive comprehensive treatment from a drug and alcohol rehab center. Comprehensive heroin rehab programs in Pompano Beach give people the treatment and support they need to overcome addiction and move forward.
Understanding the Effects of Heroin
Heroin use can cause many short and long-term effects, including addiction. Understanding these effects may help you recognize heroin abuse.
Heroin’s short-term effects can include:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Constricted (small) pupils
- Low body temperature
- Bluish hands and lips
- Itching
- Sensitivity to light
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Slow heart rate
People who abuse heroin may develop long-term problems, including:
- Malnutrition
- Poor appetite
- Lowered immunity
- Weakness
- Insomnia
- Chronic constipation
- Liver damage
- Kidney disease
- Heart valve infections
- Dental problems, including swollen gums and severe tooth decay
- Loss of sexual functioning and libido
- Bacterial infections, abscesses, and skin wounds from scratching
- Addiction
People with heroin addiction often live with significant medical, social, and financial issues. It is essential to seek treatment for heroin abuse and addiction as quickly as possible.
Many Pompano Beach, Florida centers offer addiction treatment programs. Finding one that provides safe, evidence-based care and ongoing support is critical.
What Happens in a Heroin Rehab in Pompano Beach?
Heroin addiction affects your body, mind, relationships, and every part of your life. People who become addicted to heroin must receive comprehensive treatment to address the complex roots of their substance use.
Here is what to expect during a rehab program.
Assessment
Before starting a rehab program, a doctor or addiction specialist will assess your needs. The assessment may include questions about your substance use, general health, family history of addiction, and more.
Your treatment team will use this information to determine whether you require inpatient or outpatient rehab. It will also guide your course of treatment.
Detox
People with heroin addiction often require a medically-supported detox program. During detox, your treatment team will monitor and treat withdrawal symptoms, which may include:
- Agitation
- General discomfort
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Bone pain
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- Sweating
- Chills
- Intense cravings
Your symptoms may begin within just a few hours of your last dose of heroin. Symptoms may peak during the first two days and gradually start to improve.
Detox treatment plans may include:
- Medications to reduce cravings and discomfort
- Mental health treatment
- Emotional support
- A safe, secure environment
- Round-the-clock supervision
Treatment facilities may offer inpatient and outpatient detox programs. Many people start their recovery in an inpatient program and later transition to outpatient care.
Rehab
After completing detox, you must continue treatment to address the roots of your substance use. Heroin addiction treatment plans may include:
- Medications
- Individual counseling
- Behavioral therapies
- Group therapy
- Family education and therapy
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, nutrition support, art therapy, and more
- Aftercare planning
It is important to find the South Florida heroin rehab that meets your needs. Contact the team at First Step Behavioral Health to explore your treatment options.
Choosing a Pompano Beach Heroin Rehab Center
If you or someone you love needs the support of a Pompano Beach drug rehab program, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at First Step Behavioral Health now to explore our substance abuse treatment programs.
Our admissions staff will verify your insurance plan, answer questions, and schedule an intake into our treatment center. Contact us now to get started!
