Heroin Addcition
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an illegal, highly addictive opioid drug derived from morphine, which is extracted from the seeds of the poppy plant. It typically appears as a white or brown powder, or a black sticky substance known as “black tar heroin.
People use heroin for various reasons, which often starts with a desire to experience the euphoric “high” it produces. When heroin enters the brain, it quickly binds to opioid receptors, causing a surge of intense pleasure and a sense of well-being.
This euphoric “high” can be especially appealing to those struggling with emotional pain, trauma, or other mental health issues. Additionally, some individuals turn to heroin after becoming addicted to prescription opioid medications, which may be more difficult or expensive to obtain.
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Is heroin addictive?
Heroin is extremely addictive; it is one of the most addictive illicit substances available.Repeated use of heroin can lead to the development of tolerance, meaning that over time, the person needs more of the drug to achieve the same effect. This is often followed by physical dependence, where the body becomes accustomed to the drug, and withdrawal symptoms occur if use is reduced or stopped.
Heroin addiction is characterised by compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and use, despite the harmful, and even deadly, consequences. The addiction can develop quickly, and due to its potency and the way it alters brain chemistry, heroin is one of the most difficult substances to quit without professional help.
Heroin addiction is a severe and life-threatening condition, but recovery is possible with the right treatment and support. If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, it’s crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible. Early intervention can make a significant difference in achieving long-term recovery and restoring health and well-being.
Signs and symptoms of heroin abuse and addiction.
Recognising the signs of heroin abuse and addiction is crucial for getting help early. Symptoms can vary but often include:
Physical Signs:
Behavioural signs:
Psychological signs:
Treatment for heroin addiction at the rehab centre.
Treatment for heroin addiction typically involves a combination of medical, psychological, and behavioural approaches. The most effective treatments are comprehensive and tailored to the individual’s needs.
Ibiza Calm is a specialised treatment clinic that provides rehab treatment for individuals who are struggling with heroin addiction and dependencies. The goal of the treatment is to help individuals understand the underlying causes of their problem and develop the tools and strategies needed to maintain abstinence in the long term.
The rehab centre offers a comprehensive approach to recovery from heroin addiction, including medical detox, therapy, and support groups. The Ibiza Calm team comprises experienced healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, who work together to provide the highest level of care and support to each patient.
Key components of residential heroin addiction treatment at Ibiza Calm
Inpatient treatment at the rehab centre includes:
Detoxification (detox): This is the process of safely managing withdrawal symptoms when a person stops using heroin. Medical supervision is often necessary because heroin withdrawal can be intense and, in some cases, life-threatening. At Ibiza Calm detox is overseen by our medical director, Dr Manuel Rodriguez.
Medication management: Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can be used to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping to prevent relapse. These medications are most effective when combined with therapy counselling and other support services. Alongside Dr Rodriguez, our team of highly qualified, licenced, medical professionals support clients through their detox and withdrawal, constantly monitoring medications to ensure they are effective and well-tolerated.
Individual and group therapy: Counselling and therapy are critical components of treatment, helping individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and rebuild their lives. Regular one-to-one sessions with one of our specialist therapists and facilitated group sessions provide support to all our clients.
Family therapy: Involving family members can help to rebuild relationships, improve family dynamics, and educate them about addiction and recovery. All our treatment programmes include a family support group. Any family members can attend, weekly online, from the moment their loved one enters the treatment clinic.
Aftercare planning: Long-term recovery from heroin addiction involves ongoing support, such as continued therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes to prevent relapse. As part of our tailored treatment programmes, all clients are introduced to the aftercare therapy group before leaving the clinic, ensuring they are confident of ongoing, continued support.
What is heroin withdrawal?
Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person who is dependent on a substance, such as heroin, abruptly reduces or stops using it. Dependence develops after prolonged or heavy use of a substance, where the body and brain adapt to its presence and begin to rely on it to function normally. When the substance is suddenly absent, the body reacts, leading to withdrawal symptoms.
Given the intensity of heroin withdrawal, it is generally recommended to undergo the process under medical supervision, in a specialist detoxification (detox) facility. Medications may be used to ease symptoms, making the withdrawal process safer and more comfortable.
Symptoms of heroin withdrawal
The symptoms of withdrawal can vary depending on the substance, the duration and intensity of use, and the individual’s overall health. For heroin and other opioids, withdrawal symptoms can be particularly severe and can include:
Early symptoms:
Later symptoms:
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