Have you noticed changes in your loved one lately that have your instincts telling you that something is wrong? They could be unusually distant, regularly asking for money or maybe they have lost weight unexpectedly.
At first, you worried they were sick or depressed. But there seems to be more to it than that and your gut tells you it could be addiction.
Truthfully, it can be challenging to identify a heroin addict. Unlike how they are often depicted on TV and in movies, heroin addicts don’t always have visible track marks on their skin or shake uncontrollably. However, knowing the signs of heroin addiction can help you confirm what your loved one is struggling with and even save their life.
In fact, given the most recent government data, Ohio ranks second highest in the country for opioid overdose. So, what does a heroin addict look like? The answer to this question has never been more important. Keep reading to learn the answer.
The Early Signs of a Heroin Addict
One of the reasons why heroin is so dangerous is because using even a few times can result in dependence. It’s also important to note that new heroin users are less likely to inject the drug into their bodies. While it’s easier for a new heroin user to avoid detection, here are some early sign of heroin addiction:
- Frequently Borrowing Money: New heroin users often spend a lot of money in a short time frame and need more in order to maintain their addiction.
- Increased Secrecy: Be on the lookout for your loved one wanting more privacy or not giving details about their activity. Those struggling with heroin addiction try to hide it and can get defensive if asked about their shady behaviors.
- Isolation: Has your loved one become more isolated from their friends, family and even their job? If your loved one is abusing heroin, their addiction will take priority over everything else in their life.
What Does a Heroin User Look Like?
It’s no surprise that heroin users will put in a lot of effort to hide their addiction. But that doesn’t diminish the need for them to seek heroin addiction treatment. If your loved one is past the early stages of their addiction, here’s what they may look like and act like:
- Your loved one has noticeably lost weight and constantly looks exhausted. They may even look like a ghostly version of the healthy individual they used to be.
- They no longer seem to talk about or participate in the hobbies they used to enjoy.
- They have drastic mood swings that sometimes occur out of nowhere.
- They now struggle to complete routine tasks and responsibilities.
Be on the Lookout for Withdrawal
One of the most obvious signs of a heroin user is the signs of withdrawal. Withdrawal occurs when the body is fighting against the chemical dependency of heroin. Heroin withdrawal has strong symptoms, so it’s often easy to spot when someone is experiencing them. If you already suspect your loved one is struggling with a heroin addiction, be on the lookout for withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Severe Pain: When the body craves heroin, intense aches and pains occur. The pain is often so severe that some people will cry or not be able to remain still.
- Symptoms that Mirror the Flu: Heroin withdrawal shares many symptoms with the flu, including nausea, fever and cold sweats.
- Vomiting and Upset Stomach: While it’s not the most pleasant thing to witness, vomiting is a very difficult thing to keep secret and is almost always a key withdrawal symptom.
Find Evidence-Based Heroin Addiction Treatment at Silver Maple Recovery
If your loved one is suffering from heroin addiction, it’s time to get them the help they deserve. Silver Maple Recovery uses evidence-based therapies to break the cycle of addiction.
Contact us today or give us a call at (855)-762-7531. Our caregivers are available 24 hours a day to answer your call and hear your story. Hope is within reach and together we can help you push forward to a healthier life.
