3 Signs That Your Friend is Addicted to Heroin

Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction

Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction isn't always easy. Since many addicts are secretive or reluctant to discuss their drug use, it's essential for friends, family members, and loved ones to learn to spot the signs and symptoms of addiction. And although the signs of heroin addiction can vary on an individual basis, this condition typically affects users in ways that affect mood, behavior, and appearance.

Psychological Changes

Heroin use can lead to several changes in mood and overall psychological well-being. A few of those changes include the following:

• Mood swings - In cases of heroin addiction, mood swings are often dependent on whether or not the addict is under the influence of the drug. For example, while under the influence of heroin, users often seem happy or relaxed; when craving the drug, addicts may display agitation, irritation, or combativeness.
• Depression - Heroin use can often lead to depression and other complications relating to mood. Depression is often characterized by overwhelming feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and problems within relationships.
• Anxiety - Anxiety is often present in heroin addicts, especially in those in need of a "fix." Anxiety is characterized by nervousness, shaking, irritability, insomnia, etc.

It's important to note that while depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are often symptoms of addiction, they can also be contributing factors of substance abuse. As a contributing factor, psychological illness can often lead to self-medicating as a means to relieve emotional pain. Because of its relation to substance abuse, many drug rehabilitation facilities often offer various forms of treatment for depression and other types of mental illness.

Sign 2: Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are extremely common in individuals suffering from heroin addiction. These changes in behavior can be subtle or extreme and may include the following:

• Social isolation or ignoring old friends in favor of fellow addicts
• Neglecting responsibilities - This can include missing school or work, as well as failing to fulfill obligations at home or with family.
• Risky behaviors - This can include many activities and behaviors, a few of which may be driving under the influence, having promiscuous or unsafe sex, or sharing hypodermic syringes.
• Illegal behaviors - Heroin addiction often leads to criminal activity. In order to fund a growing and expensive habit, many users turn to theft, fraud, prostitution, or drug distribution as a way to make quick cash.

Sign 3: Changes in Appearance

At first, heroin addiction may not produce any obvious physical signs or symptoms. However, as dependence grows, heroin addiction can produce several outward effects. For example, the following effects are common in cases of heroin addiction:

• Unkempt appearance - It's not uncommon for heroin addicts to neglect their appearance. A lack of grooming, bathing, etc. is to be expected in cases of heroin addiction.
• Poor complexion - Drug abuse can have various effects on skin, health, and complexion. For example, heroin can cause the skin to become either dry and flaky or oily and waxy. Also, acne breakouts often occur as a result of heroin use.
• Signs of intravenous drug use - Many heroin addicts inject the drug intravenously. This is often evidenced by the appearance of needle, or "track," marks on the arms, hands, wrists, or feet. Also, some users inject heroin in spots that are easily hidden, such as in the groin, the thighs, or under the tongue.
• Weight fluctuations - Weight loss is common among heroin addicts; however, some users actually gain weight as a result of addiction. Any fluctuations in weight may signify a problem.
• Other physical effects - Constricted pupils, profuse sweating, bloodshot eyes, and problems with coordination are common side effects of heroin.

Getting Help

Watching a loved one face the perils of heroin addiction can be a frightening experience. Thankfully though, effective drug rehab treatment is available. When suggesting treatment to a loved one, it's important to remain calm and supportive, yet honest and firm. Research available treatment methods and, if necessary, call in a trained interventionist or addiction specialist.