Heroin Addiction in Norfolk, VA

Heroin is a serious drug that can turn a recreational user into an addict almost overnight. The fact is that once you're addicted to heroin, trying to quit on your own can be an extremely difficult process. That's why heroin addiction in Norfolk and throughout the state has reached epidemic proportions.

Just because you're addicted to heroin today doesn't mean that you have to use tomorrow though. Many people have suffered from heroin addiction, some for years at a time, before getting professional addiction treatment in Norfolk. The right care can help you turn your life around too.

Heroin Effects: Why is Heroin So Addictive?

It's common knowledge that heroin and other opiates are extremely addictive drugs. Many people, even the people dealing directly with heroin addiction in Norfolk don't understand why. Heroin works on a few different levels when it comes to addiction.

Mental addiction is common among addicts because the drug creates a feel-good sensation in the brain. This occurs because heroin binds with pleasure receptors and pain relief when it is used. In the past, heroin and other opiates were used as numbing agents before medical procedures because of its strong pain relieving properties. If you suffer from substance abuse, alcohol treatment in Norfolk can help you.

Physical addiction also takes hold of people who use heroin very quickly. The feel good sensation and the addictive properties make it hard for many people to quit. Addicts who try to quit on their own often end up using again because of severe withdrawal symptoms that cannot be controlled.

How Is Heroin Used?

Heroin addiction in Norfolk is far too common, but not all addicts use the drug the same way. Common methods for using heroin include:

  • Snorting. Snorting is a common way of taking heroin in the United States. That's because snorting doesn't require any special equipment. Controlling dosages in this manner can be especially difficult however.
  • Injecting. Injecting is what people regularly turn to when they want a faster high. It can be very dangerous though because overdose can happen very quickly. Sharing needles with others can also lead to infection and health problems including HIV, hepatitis and more.
  • Smoking. Smoking heroin has become more and more common in recent years, particularly with young users. The drug is sometimes smoked from a special pipe or mixed with other drugs like marijuana, putting users in even more danger.
  • Ingesting or swallowing. Sometimes referred to as "parachuting," this method of use involves swallowing heroin, often in capsule form or with liquids. This method of use can be very dangerous, especially if heroin is taken with alcohol.

Heroin Addiction Signs and Symptoms

Heroin addiction can come on quickly for recreational users. Being able to spot the signs isn't always easy, even for addiction. Common heroin addiction signs and symptoms include:

  • Feeling the need to use heroin every single day. Many addicts have to use multiple times each day just to feel normal again.
  • Using heroin even when you want to quit. Using heroin more than you planned to is also a sign that you may be an addict.
  • Trying to quit using heroin but being unable to do so. Addicts often can't quit on their own.
  • Having trouble at work or school because of your heroin use.
  • Avoiding situations where you can't use heroin.

Why Should I Enter a Heroin Addiction Rehab?

Heroin addiction can take over your life in a very short period of time. Once you're addicted, it can be hard to even know where to turn for help. There are drug and alcohol treatments and treatment centers that can help you change your life though.

Battling heroin addiction in Norfolk can be a long, hard process. The fight isn't over once you're clean and sober either. For many addicts, the real struggle begins when they return to normal life.

With the right treatment program behind you though, and a supportive aftercare program ahead, you can live clean, happy, healthy and sober for good. Make the call today and start the process of changing your life for the better. Call Norfolk Drug Rehab Centers now for help (877) 804-1531.

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