The widespread availability of heroin and the relatively low price of the drug have caused a heroin epidemic. Unfortunately, this problem affects big cities and small towns across the country. While some people try heroin after developing a painkiller addiction, other people become addicted after experimenting with the drug.
The Heroin Epidemic Affects Everybody
The average small town does not seem like the epicenter of a heroin epidemic. Yet in 2019, there were more than 67,000 drug overdose deaths in the country. More than half of these deaths were from opioids like heroin and painkillers.
In a small town, everyone is affected by the heroin epidemic. Close-knit families and communities are torn apart by heroin abuse. The drug affects individuals across every demographic and region. For example, some communities have responded by requiring schools and paramedics to stock naloxone for heroin overdoses. As with any disease, heroin addiction costs communities time and effort to treat. Individuals struggling with heroin addiction need the resources necessary to heal from the disease of addiction. It’s not a process that can be done alone. To overcome heroin addiction, we all need to learn to be supportive.
There are many reasons why small towns are affected by this drug. Many teenagers try the drug out of boredom or curiosity. In some cases, an individual develops an addiction to a prescription painkiller. When the prescription runs out, they may turn to heroin as an opioid substitute.
Signs of Heroin Abuse
If a loved one has a heroin addiction, there are some indications that they may have a problem. This fast-acting opiate causes symptoms of euphoria. Also, it causes skin flushing, dry mouth, and feelings of heaviness shortly after it is used. Further, the individual may have memory problems and difficulties in making decisions. But other than finding syringes, pipes, or heroin residue, there are other signs that someone has a heroin addiction. For instance, family members may notice signs such as:
- Nausea, vomiting or constipation
- Changed eating habits or weight loss
- A tendency to fall asleep suddenly
- Slurred speech
- Scratching
- Wearing long sleeves to cover the arms
- Financial problems or difficulties at work
Many individuals try to hide their addiction. So it may not be easy to tell. Furthermore, they may become secretive or lie to hide their drug abuse. But if they do have an addiction, they need to get help.
Getting Help
Heroin addiction treatment is available. At a treatment center, patients can safely detox from heroin. Our expert staff supervises patients at all times to prevent and manage withdrawal symptoms. During treatment, patients can get help through programs, including:
- Heroin detox program
- Individual therapy program including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Group therapy program
- A compassionate, supportive environment
- Medical detox program
- Family therapy program
No one deserves to live with the pain and despair of heroin addiction. So if you or a loved one needs help, there’s a Houston drug detox ready for your call. Serenity House Detox & Recovery will help lay the foundation for their long-term sobriety. To find out how, contact us today at 866.516.8356.
