The opioid epidemic continues to wreak havoc across the United States. Heroin is an illegal opioid drug that is extremely potent and dangerous. It affects the pleasure and pain centers in the brain. After using heroin, individuals experience a rush of euphoric feelings, making it also highly addictive. When someone continually abuses the drug, it significantly impacts their brain chemistry, as their brain stops producing its own pleasure chemicals. They then begin to physically and psychologically rely on heroin to feel joy.
Heroin use disorder causes severe side effects on a person’s health and well-being. Quitting drug use and becoming sober is not easy because when someone struggling with addiction stops using, they experience intense physical withdrawal symptoms. However, with the right treatment, recovery is possible. At Northpoint Nebraska, we take an integrated approach with our heroin addiction treatment program to help patients every step of the way.
Understanding Treatment for Heroin Addiction
The first step in treatment for heroin addiction is detox. This involves flushing the drugs completely out of your system. It is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging and should not be attempted alone. Individuals going through detox will experience intense withdrawal symptoms that should be monitored in a safe environment.
Some common heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sweating
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- insomnia
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea and abdominal cramping
- Muscle spasms
- Respiratory issues
- Depression
Trying to quit by yourself is dangerous and can lead to significant health consequences. The safest and most effective way to go through heroin detox is to find a professional addiction treatment facility. At Northpoint Nebraska, our staff offers the support patients need to get through detox safely and effectively. While heroin detox can be uncomfortable and painful, it’s the critical first step in treatment for heroin addiction. Once patients become sober, they can continue their heroin use disorder treatment in our various inpatient programs and services.
Who Needs Heroin Use Disorder Treatment?
If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction, it’s vital to seek professional treatment. If left untreated, heroin abuse can have severe side effects and can even lead to death. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction can alert you that someone needs heroin use disorder treatment.
Some of the signs and symptoms of heroin use disorder are:
- Flushed skin
- Shallow or slow breathing
- Itching
- Intense cravings
- Sweating
- Neglecting responsibilities at home or work
- Poor hygiene
- Changes in friends and hobbies
- Engaging in secretive behavior
For those looking for more information about heroin addiction or treatment for heroin addiction, do not hesitate to call our dedicated staff at 888.351.3834.
Finding the Right Program for Heroin Treatment for You
It can be easy to focus only on treating the physical side effects when it comes to heroin addiction treatment. However, patients must also work on improving their mental health and reflecting on their past to uncover the causes of their substance abuse. Northpoint Nebraska takes a holistic approach to treatment to help those in recovery heal physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Some of the heroin addiction treatment programs we offer at Northpoint Nebraska are:
- Drug detox and rehab
- Co-occurring disorders treatment
- Medical detox program
- Relapse prevention program
- Family therapy program
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy program
By participating in our evidence-based programs for heroin treatment, patients learn to identify their triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Our staff works with those receiving treatment to help them feel prepared and motivated to take on a healthier, sober lifestyle. Everyone’s experiences with addiction and recovery are different, so we create individualized treatment plans for each patient to best meet their specific needs.
Heroin Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Nebraska
To learn more about heroin addiction treatment and the various programs we offer, contact Northpoint Nebraska at 888.351.3834.