Non Physical Signs of Heroin Addiction

Drug Abuse and Addiction - HelpGuide.org

You’re undoubtedly really concerned if you fear someone you care about is taking heroin. Heroin addiction can have life-altering consequences, and convincing someone to get help can be difficult. Naturally, you’ll want to confirm your suspicions before saying anything, and knowing the nonphysical indicators of heroin addiction can help.

Although addiction is a highly individual disease, persons who suffer from it typically exhibit similar symptoms or behaviors. So, today, we’re going to go through these indications of heroin addiction and provide you with some clear, concrete next actions to help your loved one stay safe and overcome addiction.

Heroin Addiction’s Non-Physical Symptoms

  1. Valuables or money often go missing

Addiction is a costly habit that often takes precedence over everything else. If a person cannot buy heroin on their own, they may steal money or possessions to support their habit. This could entail stealing from friends and relatives, as well as criminal activity.

  • Drug paraphernalia

Because heroin can be misused in a variety of ways, some physical indications of abuse may not be apparent. Heroin is smoked, snorted, or injected. While many people equate track marks with heroin consumption, you might not find them on someone you suspect is abusing the drug. It’s possible they’re using heroin if you see charred spoons, glass pipes, syringes, or needles in their possession.

  • Legal wrangles

Heroin is a controlled substance, and being found in possession of it or driving while under the influence can result in legal consequences. Many will face legal ramifications as a result of the extent to which some may go in order to obtain it.

  • Shifts in mood

Heroin usage can cause a person’s mood to fluctuate dramatically. It is fairly common for heroin addicts to become erratic or hostile. You may notice that they are easily upset, impatient, or antagonistic toward others. They may also experience depressive mood fluctuations, which cause them to withdraw from friends, family, and social activities.

  • A skewed perception of reality

Heroin has a wide range of mind-altering adverse effects that can linger for a long period. Hallucinations can be frightening and prompt people to act out. They may fear things that aren’t actually there, describe sensations like bugs crawling all over their skin, and develop scabs as a result of picking at their skin. Although not everyone who consumes heroin will experience hallucinations or paranoia, this side effect has been related to long-term use. 

What Should You Do If You Think Your Loved One Is Suffering From Heroin  Addiction?

There is hope if your loved one is suffering from heroin addiction. There are various actions that can be taken to assist someone who is addicted to heroin or other opiates. An intervention may be required if someone refuses to seek help. Opioid addiction treatment clinics like Taylor Recovery Center can assist someone in this process if they are willing to accept that they have a problem. The treatment approach, which usually begins with detox and residential treatment and continues with sober living and outpatient treatment, can best prepare persons in recovery from addiction for life following treatment.