Heroin is one of the most dangerous and addictive substances. It has the second-highest overdose rate, only behind prescription opioids.
This is why heroin addiction is a prevalent issue you should be wary of. Maybe you or a loved one is suffering from this problem, and you’re looking for clear signs.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry; we’re here to help. Let’s look at all the early red flags to watch out for.
Lack of Motivation
It has several signs that can be used to identify if someone is using or abusing the drug. One of the significant signs of heroin addiction is a lack of motivation. People who are addicted to heroin will often show a lack of interest in activities that they once found pleasurable or inspiring.
They may also start to avoid social interactions due to the roadblocks their addiction has created. They may appear lazy and apathetic about tasks requiring effort and concentration.
They may also have difficulty completing day-to-day activities involving organizing or planning. This lack of motivation can indicate someone is struggling with heroin addiction. It should be taken as a sign that professional help is necessary.
Financial Problems
Most notably, the costs associated with addiction begin to compound. Increasingly, more money is needed to maintain the habit. This strain on finances can become extremely damaging.
Additionally, due to the cost of heroin addiction, people may rely on small loans and pawn shops for money or begin to miss work days because of their addiction. Over time, significant debt caused by heroin addiction can create unmanageable financial insecurity. They ruin even the most responsible individuals.
The individual may prioritize obtaining the drug over any other financial commitments. Spending all of one’s money on heroin can put a person in debt. This can even result in the person resorting to illegal activities such as theft to get more money.
Sudden Weight Loss
The body does not have adequate nutrients and energy to sustain itself. This can occur due to decreased food intake, increased drug use, and increased physical activity. Individuals with heroin addiction may also appear to lose muscle mass instead of fat.
Withdrawal symptoms such as bloating and water retention can further contribute to sudden weight loss. The body is ridding itself of heroin, and the individual is not receiving the same amount of nutrients.
Bloodshot Eyes
This is caused by prolonged use, as those using heroin often experience disrupted sleep cycles due to being high. They will usually stay awake for extended periods, making their eyes bloodshot. As this alteration in sleep deprivation continues, the bloodshot eyes become more and more pronounced.
Those addicted to heroin may also experience redness around the nose, which is often associated with snorting heroin or rubbing their nose or eyes due to itching caused by the substance. It is essential to recognize the signs of addiction and seek help immediately.
Changes in Appearance
They may look cluttered with messy hair, clothes unsuitable for the weather, and visibly pale skin. Heroin addicts will also have bloodshot eyes and enlarged pupils. Behaviorally, they may seem lethargic and lack energy and their speech can be slow and slurred.
Addicts may prioritize finding and using more heroin. To acquire more heroin, a person may turn to crime, such as theft or burglary. It can cause a change in their overall demeanor.
It leaves them unable to maintain relationships, employment, or school commitments. Those who are addicted to heroin may withdraw from family and friends and begin to isolate themselves. This is to reduce the likelihood of disapproval or judgment.
Extreme Drowsiness
This is caused by the body’s inability to process heroin quickly, leading to fatigue. This drowsiness can be severe enough to interfere with someone’s ability to focus and concentrate on tasks. You are making it difficult to get through the day.
If someone you know is showing signs of extreme drowsiness or any of these other issues. It’s essential to reach out for help so that they can get back on the road to recovery.
Secretive Behavior
Secretive behavior is an unmistakable sign of heroin addiction. Heroin addicts commonly attempt to hide their addiction because of its associated stigma. They may try to mask their behavior by engaging in activities alone and may refuse to discuss their whereabouts or activities.
They will attempt to keep their drug use a secret by hiding supplies, asking friends and family for money, and avoiding eye contact when asked questions. A heroin addict may avoid friends and family and become moody and irritable.
They may become secretive and protective of their time, space, belongings, and conversations. It is essential to watch for signs of sneaky or evasive behavior. This is to catch an addiction before it spirals out of control.
Behavioral Cues
Furthermore, heroin addicts may become more reclusive. They isolate themselves from others or stay in their bedroom rather than interact with people. They may start to spend less time with friends and family while taking extra or longer breaks to inject themselves.
They may also become increasingly secretive and defensive when questioned or leave the room when discussing drug-related material. Financial difficulties caused by their addiction may become more noticeable once they manipulate or steal money to fund their habit.
Concentration and performance can suffer, too, as an addict’s motivation and work ethic take a hit. Knowing these signs can be beneficial in identifying and helping an individual in need of treatment.
Seeking Treatment
Heroin addiction can be a destructive force in the life of an individual. Heroin addiction manifests as physical, mental, and behavioral changes. It is essential for a person struggling with this addiction to recognize the signs and seek addiction treatment.
If these signs are observed, it is essential to seek professional help to begin the process of overcoming heroin addiction. In here are the treatment options you expect through counseling, support groups, medication-assisted therapies, and rehab facility. This can help one break the cycle of addiction and ultimately reclaim their life from the grips of heroin abuse.
Get Rid of Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction is a severe and life-threatening condition — if you or someone you know is displaying any of the signs mentioned above, please take it as a warning and take action to get help! Take action as soon as possible. Proper care and treatment make it possible to recover from addiction and live a fulfilling and healthy life.
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