Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is a chronic health condition that causes compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and use despite the clear adverse consequences. Like other forms of drug addiction, it involves both physical dependence and psychological cravings.

Physically, heroin addiction causes powerful withdrawal when you miss a dose with symptoms including:

• Muscle and bone pain
• Restlessness and severe agitation
• Insomnia
• Diarrhoea and vomiting
• Cold flashes with goosebumps (often said to be where the phrase “cold turkey” originates)
• Uncontrollable leg movements (the source of the phrase “kicking the habit”)

The psychological hold of heroin addiction can be profound with the drug providing relief from stress and pain and ultimately overshadowing relationships, career aspirations and personal well-being.

The descent into heroin addiction can be swift and severe and begin causing issues before the individual is even aware there is a growing problem. It may stem from occasional recreational use or, as was seen during the American Opioid Crisis, develop from a different addiction to a prescribed opioid medication. In the US, this route saw many successful, law-abiding victims, the vast majority of whom had never used drugs before, losing their homes, families and businesses and, in many cases, ending up destitute.

Heroin’s chemical potential for addiction is rooted in its profound effects on the brain’s reward system. Upon entering the brain, heroin is converted to morphine and binds to opioid receptors, producing the intense high and sedation that it is known for. This surge in dopamine reinforces the drug-taking behaviour, making the brain crave these pleasurable sensations again. Over time, the brain’s natural ability to produce dopamine diminishes, leading to increased tolerance and dependence.

However, heroin is not a drug that is widely taken “casually” and there are various personal factors which increase the chances of heroin abuse and addiction:

While any level of heroin abuse is dangerous, being able to spot heroin addiction symptoms early can highlight the need for professional treatment. Some common heroin addiction signs to be aware of include:

• An increasing tolerance to heroin, so higher doses are needed
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop using heroin
• Wasting time, money and energy on heroin use
• Neglecting professional and personal responsibilities due to heroin use
• Continuing heroin use despite knowledge of adverse consequences
• Engaging in risky behaviours to procure or use heroin
• Experiencing heroin withdrawal symptoms such as muscle pain, insomnia and agitation when not using heroin

Heroin addiction and abuse can be incredibly damaging to health, relationship and personal and professional lives. Some of the most serious dangers include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Slowed breathing and heart rate
• Severe itching and skin infections from injection sites
• Chronic respiratory issues and lung infections
• Collapsed veins and cardiovascular complications
• Liver and kidney disease
• Severe constipation and gastrointestinal problems
• Brain damage due to hypoxia (reduced oxygen to the brain)
• Increased risk of infectious diseases (HIV, hepatitis) from needle sharing
• Severe depression, anxiety and emotional instability

Heroin overdose

Heroin overdose is a serious medical emergency that kills thousands of people every year in the UK. For anyone who is using heroin or who knows someone who is using, recognising these heroin overdose symptoms can potentially save a life:

• Shallow or stopped breathing
• Extreme drowsiness and inability to wake up
• Slow or erratic pulse
• Blue lips and fingernails
• Loss of consciousness or coma

If you witness any heroin overdose symptoms in yourself or someone else, call 999 immediately and tell the response team exactly what has been taken.

Heroin addiction treatment needs to address every facet of the condition, from physical dependency to the personal and social causes of heroin abuse. UKAT London Clinic takes an individualised approach to treatment, working closely with our clients to create a bespoke recovery plan that fits their needs and schedule. This plan will incorporate three important stages:

Heroin detox

Detox is the process of clearing your system of heroin under medical supervision and guidance.  UKAT London Clinic’s detox programmes are delivered by industry-leaving addiction and medical experts who will offer round-the-clock support. Detox breaks the physical element of heroin addiction to ready you for further treatment.

Bespoke heroin rehab

UKAT London Clinic’s heroin rehab programme offers a wide range of therapies and evidence-based treatment that is completely customisable. Our experienced rehab team will discuss your needs and help you create a treatment plan that will help you work through your issues and achieve your recovery goals. This plan can be delivered to fit around your schedule with each therapy providing unique opportunities and personal insights.

Aftercare and ongoing support

UKAT London Clinic knows that recovery is a lifelong journey and we provide all our clients with ongoing care and support. This includes the continuation of any therapies that you have found particularly beneficial and access to our Alumni Networks and aftercare groups.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with heroin addiction, UKAT London Clinic offers world-leading care in a comfortable, discreet environment. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to your healing and renewal and will provide personalised care at every stage. Contact us today to learn more about our bespoke heroin addiction treatment programmes and begin your path to lasting sobriety.