Heroin addiction is increasingly common across the United States. For the last several decades, the United States has suffered from an opioid epidemic. Contrary to common beliefs, many people who use heroin and other opioids maintain relatively normal lives. For some in the LGBTQ community, self-medicating with heroin relieves family stress, unresolved trauma, and emotional pain. People often take heroin to cope with bigotry, prejudice, and a lack of access to safe mental health care. Many in the LGBTQ community avoid treatment and need safe, inclusive detox and recovery programs.
If someone you love in the LGBTQ community is struggling with heroin, we can help. Our LGBTQ heroin addiction treatment in Hollywood, California pairs cutting-edge medical detox with psychological support. Learn more about La Fuente Hollywood’s programs and treatment for heroin addiction now by calling us at 888.903.9898.
Signs and Symptoms of Heroin Abuse and Addiction
Heroin is a semi-synthetic opiate derived from the opium poppy. Users inject, smoke, and snort heroin for pain relief and a euphoric high. When heroin enters the bloodstream, it converts to morphine. Morphine stops pain receptors and creates a euphoric effect, which is why heroin and other opiates are so popular. Some people use heroin when they’ve developed an opioid dependency from prescription painkillers like OxyContin. The more often someone takes heroin, the more they will need to feel the same effects. This can quickly lead to addiction, overdose, and heroin-related death. If you think someone you love is using heroin, here are the signs to look for:
- Hallucinations
- Slurred speech
- Changes in mood
- Weight loss
- Scabs from skin picking
- Lack of motivation
- Constricted pupils
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Delusions
- Avoidance and self-isolation
- Shortness of breath
- Warm, flushed skin
- Track marks from injection
- Sudden personality changes
- Distance and disinterest in other’s lives
- Financial trouble
- Lying
- Manipulating others
Heroin works by slowing down every system in the body. This can cause someone to act lethargic, confused, and disassociated while high. When the heroin wears off, they may act manic, paranoid, and aggressive. Attempting to stop using heroin cold turkey is rarely effective because heroin changes a person’s brain chemistry. Professional heroin addiction treatment is always the best option.
Finding Heroin Addiction Treatment Near Me
Heroin addiction treatment programs offer safe and effective detox from heroin and other opiates. Most programs provide a dual diagnosis for mental health and substance abuse. Today, at least half of people with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders and unprocessed trauma. A dual diagnosis program treats both at the same time for holistic recovery.
Heroin recovery often includes medically-assisted detox and medication management to help the brain adjust, reduce cravings, and keep people sober. Both residential and outpatient programs give clients psychological support and medication management. This approach can lessen physical and mental withdrawal symptoms allowing therapy to work more quickly. Both individual and group therapy help uncover the roots of addiction and create a community with others prioritizing sobriety. Some programs also include family therapy for those with families ready to work together to overcome the effects of addiction.
Finding the right program isn’t always easy. It’s important to find a program that fits your loved one’s needs and budget and provides a range of services. No two experiences of addiction are the same, which is why a program with both evidence-based and alternative therapies can offer a range of support to help clients find the tools they need for recovery.
Find Treatment for Heroin Addiction at La Fuente Hollywood Treatment Center
Unfortunately, the LBGTQ community is highly affected by heroin and other opiate addiction. If your loved one needs treatment, we can help. With varying levels of care, La Fuente offers inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient rehab programs for the LGBTQ community. With 24/7 medical care and board-certified doctors, La Fuente provides a safe and effective detox just for the LGBTQ community.
We believe our work at La Fuente heals individuals and the LGBTQ community. Many of our staff members understand addiction firsthand bringing their unique experiences of personal recovery to inclusive group therapy and family therapy session. With alums and aftercare programs, La Fuente is here for every step of recovery. Don’t let heroin take over your loved one’s life. Call us at 888.903.9898 to learn more about treatment for heroin addiction.
