Signs and symptoms of Smack (Heroin) addiction
The signs and symptoms of heroin addiction will vary among users based upon genetic makeup, amount of drug used, frequency of use, and dependency on the drug. The most common symptoms of heroin addiction include the following:
- Depression
- Euphoria
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Hostility toward others
- Agitation and irritability
- Lying about drug use
- Avoiding loved ones
- Weight loss
- Scabs or bruises as the result of picking at the skin
- Delusions
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Decreased attention to personal hygiene
- Possession of burned spoons, needles or syringes, missing shoelaces, glass pipes
- Inability to fulfill responsibilities at work or school
- Increased sleeping
- Apathy and lack of motivation
- Decline in occupational or academic performance
- Slurred speech
- Shortness of breath
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Dry mouth
- Going “on the nod” during conversations
- Forced, pressured speech
- Track marks on arms and legs
- Warm, flushed skin
- Constricted pupils
- Extreme itching
- Stashing drug in various places around the home, car, and work
- Periods of hyperactivity followed by periods of exhaustion
Causes and Risk Factors
Addiction is not a well understood condition; researchers can’t explain precisely why one person becomes addicted to smack/heroin while another does not. It’s thought that addiction is the result of a number of genetic, physical, and environmental risk factors working in tandem to produce an addiction. The following are the most commonly cited causes for the development of a heroin addiction:
Genetic: It is now known that addiction has a genetic component. Teens who have a parent or sibling who struggle with addiction are more likely than their peers without a similar history to develop an addiction.
Physical: Chronic use of a substance gradually changes the structure and functioning of the brain, as seen in numerous neuroimaging studies. It’s currently unclear precisely the role these changes play in addiction.
Environmental: It appears that addiction has an environmental component – teens who were raised in an environment in which caregivers or parents used drugs or alcohol are more likely to use drugs and alcohol later in life. In addition, teens who begin to experiment with drugs and alcohol at earlier ages are more likely to later develop an addiction.
Why Consider Treatment?
Smack/Heroin addiction is a chronic and relapsing disease that needs to be treated as soon as possible. The long term effects of smack/heroin abuse and addiction can destroy an individual’s life, leaving them broke, jobless, and totally socially isolated. Eventually, after prolonged use, the structure and function of the brain changes, leading to the development of tolerance and dependence.
The fully dedicated staff here at Aarambh has lots of experience helping individuals kick their smack addiction and go on to live fulfilled, sober lives. While initially heroin causes a rush of pleasure, the negative consequences soon outweigh any sense of fleeting euphoria. We know how difficult it is to decide to get help, but it is a step in the right direction. Our amazing team of health professionals will get you through detox, set you up with an effective treatment plan, and teach you the skills you need to get back to a higher level of functioning.
