If you or someone you know uses heroin or is considering it, you might wonder: What is heroin addiction? Why is heroin addictive? Heroin is an illegal narcotic affecting over a million people in the U.S. every year. Its fast-acting properties make this drug addictive, creating intense cravings that keep people using it. The safest way to heal is by enrolling in an accredited heroin addiction treatment program.
At Gulf Breeze Recovery, our heroin addiction treatment program helps men and women break their addiction to heroin, reducing the risk of relapse, overdose, and death. It is a much safer alternative than quitting alone, as we administer medication to reduce withdrawal and cravings. Patients will work with a certified therapist in group and private therapy sessions, far away from daily stresses and triggers.
To see how our heroin addiction treatment in Florida can benefit your recovery, call 833.551.2304 today to speak with one of our compassionate team members.
What Is Heroin Addiction?
Heroin addiction is a complex disorder to treat. No one starts using drugs or alcohol thinking they will develop a substance use disorder. However, the longer they use one or multiple substances, the more likely it will happen. The dangers of heroin addiction are due to how quickly heroin works and the intensity of the euphoric response.
When you use heroin, you ingest a substance that binds with mu-opioid cell receptors and signals a massive dopamine release. The more heroin you take, the more your body will need a steady supply to function normally. Over time, heroin addiction can cause several severe medical complications that include:
- Collapsed veins
- Chronic constipation
- Liver and kidney damage
- Endocarditis
- HIV/AIDS caused by sharing needles
- Hepatitis
- Pneumonia
- Skin lesions and abscesses
Why Is Heroin Addictive?
Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs on the streets today. It comes with a high rate of abuse and overdose potential. It is a synthetic opioid made from morphine and produces intense euphoria. This feeling makes it addictive, especially for those with an underlying mental health disorder.
The fast-acting effects of heroin are just one part of the reasons why heroin is so addictive. Other factors that impact a person’s susceptibility to heroin addiction include:
- A family history of addiction to heroin or other substances.
- Peer pressure to experiment with drugs.
- Those with unresolved trauma are likelier to turn to drugs and alcohol to feel better. Addictions caused by trauma are more complex to treat as, most times, people are unaware that the past trauma is affecting them.
- People who abuse their opioid pain medication and can no longer get a refill may switch to harder drugs like heroin to continue to feel similar effects.
Other factors that can make someone more susceptible to heroin addiction include symptoms of major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and other mental health concerns. These co-occurring conditions are more complex to treat, especially if one of the disorders is unknown.
Beat Heroin Addiction Today at Gulf Breeze Recovery
Why is heroin addictive? What is heroin addiction, exactly? At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we will answer your questions before beginning your treatment plan to help prepare you for your recovery journey. We understand the dangers of heroin addiction and the complexities of treating all aspects of the disorder. Therapists will work closely with each patient to uncover the reasons behind substance use and teach healthy coping skills to manage symptoms and triggers.
Discover all of the benefits of our heroin addiction treatment program by calling 833.551.2304 today or using our web portal. We’re ready to help you begin your recovery journey and guide you every step of the way.
