Heroin is a highly addictive opioid that’s become a growing public health concern that affects individuals, families, and communities across the United States. For example, in 2021, over a million people reported using heroin in the U.S. Like other addictions, heroin addiction is possible but difficult to hide, and there are always signs that keen-eyed loved ones can look for.
This article will explore eight key indicators of heroin addiction and highlight some intervention strategies and methods for maintaining your mental health in the process of supporting a loved one with addiction.
1. Constricted Pupils
One of the most noticeable physical signs of heroin use is constricted pupils, often described as “pinpoint pupils.” Pupils constrict because heroin affects the central nervous system, causing the pupils to become unusually small, even in dim light.
2. Dry Mouth and Flushed Skin
Heroin use can lead to dehydration, resulting in dry mouth. Users may frequently lick their lips or complain of thirst. Additionally, heroin causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to flushed or warm-looking skin. This flushing may be particularly noticeable on the face and neck.
3. Heavy Limbs and Slowed Breathing
People under the influence of heroin often appear very tired and slow. Their limbs may seem heavy, and their movements slow and uncoordinated.
Additionally, one of the most alarming and potentially risky effects of heroin is that it significantly slows breathing. This respiratory depression is a direct effect of how the drug impacts the nervous system and is one of the most dangerous aspects of heroin use, potentially leading to death when the drug is taken in high doses.
4. Secretive and Deceptive Behaviors
As addiction takes hold, individuals often become increasingly secretive and deceptive. They might make frequent excuses to leave suddenly, hide their belongings, or become defensive when asked about their activities. This secrecy usually stems from attempts to hide their drug use and obtain more heroin without others noticing.
5. Neglecting Responsibilities and Personal Hygiene
Heroin addiction can lead people to neglect essential responsibilities. This neglect might manifest as frequently missing work or school, failing to pay bills, or neglecting family obligations. Personal hygiene also often takes a toll, with a noticeable decline in appearance, including unwashed clothes, unkempt hair, and poor oral hygiene.
6. Sudden Changes in Friends, Hobbies, and Interests
A person struggling with heroin addiction may suddenly change their social circle, often distancing themselves from friends and family who don’t use drugs. They might abandon long-standing hobbies or lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.
New friendships may revolve around drug use, and their interests may narrow to focus primarily on obtaining and using heroin.
7. Mood Swings and Erratic Behavior
Heroin use can cause dramatic shifts in mood and behavior. A person might seem euphoric and content shortly after using but quickly becomes irritable, anxious, or depressed as the drug wears off. These mood swings can be rapid and intense, leading to unpredictable behavior that may be out of character for the individual.
8. Cognitive Issues and Poor Decision-Making
Long-term heroin use can significantly impact mental functions. You might notice the person having trouble concentrating, struggling with memory, or making increasingly poor decisions over time. People with heroin addiction may also have difficulty following conversations or completing tasks that require focus.
And as happens with any drug dependence, financial problems often arise due to impaired judgment and the prioritization of drug use over other responsibilities and needs.
Intervention Strategies for Heroin Addiction
If you suspect a loved one is using heroin, it’s essential to approach the situation with care and concern. Follow these general steps if you want to intervene and encourage them to get professional help:
- Choose a calm moment to talk when the person is not under the influence.
- Express your worries without judgment, focusing on specific behaviors you’ve observed rather than making accusations.
- Offer support and encourage them to seek professional help, as overcoming heroin addiction requires medical and psychological treatment.
Be prepared for denial or resistance, as many people struggling with addiction have difficulty acknowledging the problem. Provide information about treatment options and offer to help them find resources. In some cases, a formal intervention with the help of a professional interventionist may be necessary.
Support for Families and Loved Ones of People With Addiction
Dealing with a loved one’s heroin addiction can be incredibly challenging and emotionally draining, so family members and friends must seek support for themselves as well.
Look for support groups like Nar-Anon, which are specifically for families affected by addiction. Groups like Nar-Anon can provide valuable coping strategies and a sense of community by being surrounded by others facing similar challenges.
Additionally, consider individual or family counseling to help navigate the complex emotions and dynamics that arise when dealing with addiction.
Finally, remember to take care of your physical and mental needs. Maintain your routines, engage in self-care activities, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Encourage People With Heroin Addiction to Seek Help
Spotting that someone close to you has a heroin addiction can be life-saving. With a good understanding of physical signs like constricted pupils and slowed breathing, behavioral changes, and psychological shifts, you may be able to identify a problem before it becomes even more severe.
If you notice these signs in someone you care about, don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are many resources available for both individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones, like the SAMHSA National Helpline.
With proper support and treatment, recovery from heroin addiction is possible. Remember that addiction is a chronic disease, not a moral failing, so approaching the situation with compassion and understanding is the best way to support recovery.
