An individual addicted to heroin can experience shifts in behavior, personality as well as health. This article will discuss the characteristics of heroin use and what sort of actions and behaviors to look out for when dealing with an individual addicted to heroin.
Attributes of Heroin Addiction
Taking heroin causes a rush of euphoria for a minutes and is followed by a state of drowsiness that can last for hours. A sudden drop in energy levels and feeling sleepy at odd times is an indicator of heroin use. Such sluggishness can also manifest mentally and the individual’s speech can be slow or slurred and they can seem confused. There can be a drift into and out of consciousness.
Anti social behavior is a common indicator. An individual with an addiction will go to any lengths to fund their habit., including stealing, drug dealing and even prostitution. The individual may have financial troubles since they have most likely depleted their own funds and resources.
An individual with an addiction will exhibit drastic shifts in personality. They tend to be loners and keep themselves isolated. In company they can appear aggressive. They can tend to experience high levels of anxiety or panic. When such an individual seeks out company, it is usually the company of other people who are similarly addicted.
There may be genetic disposition towards addiction. While there are no definitive studies on such a link, except for one, scientists have long tried to find a co-relation. Some individuals can use heroin once or on occasion and never develop the habit, while others can find the drug incredibly intoxicating and can become hooked very easily. Therefore, if an individual has immediate family members who are battling with addiction, then it’s a possibility they will too.
Dealing with Heroin Addicts
One of the best ways to deal with an individual who has an addiction is through an intervention. An intervention is a face to face meeting, which is recommended by experts, where the individual’s family, friends and loved ones gather to communicate with the individual that their habits are destructive to themselves and to others. It is also crucial to tell the individual one’s own feelings about their habits, and not alienate them by playing the blame game.
In many cases it is important to find a third party mediator to be a guide for the intervention. The mediator can help with the process of the intervention, as well as recommend treatment facilities should the intervention be successful.
Do you have a loved one struggling with heroin addiction? We can help with their recovery. Call The Villa to learn more.