Heroin is a well-known illicit opioid drug. Unlike prescription opioids, heroin is often the street drug of choice for opioid users who can no longer obtain prescription pills. Gender differences among heroin users can be found in various aspects. Generally, males tend to initiate heroin use at a younger age compared to females, and they are more likely to use it in a social context. On the other hand, females often report using heroin to self-medicate for problems such as depression and anxiety. Females are also more likely to escalate from initial use to dependence more quickly than their male counterparts. These differences highlight the importance of gender-specific interventions when addressing the issue of heroin use.
The need for specific women’s recovery programs in Colorado has never been greater. Addiction treatment programs for women offer targeted therapies and support programs to address the particular needs of women battling substance use disorders. A treatment program for women with a heroin addiction can literally be the difference between life and death.
If you are a woman residing in Colorado and struggling with heroin addiction, reach out to a local professional addiction treatment center today.
What Is Heroin?
Heroin, scientifically known as diacetylmorphine, is an opioid drug that is synthesized from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of poppy plants. Heroin can be a white or brown powder, or a black sticky substance known as black tar heroin. It is typically injected, snorted, or smoked to produce a euphoric state.
Symptoms of Heroin Use and Dependency
Heroin use is associated with numerous physical and emotional symptoms.
Physically, users may experience the following symptoms:
- Dry mouth
- Flushed skin
- Constricted pupils
- A heavy feeling in the extremities
- Slowed breathing
Over time, repeated heroin use can lead to more severe health issues like collapsed veins, abscesses, and liver or kidney disease.
Emotionally, heroin use often leads to drastic changes in behavior. Users may display signs of:
- Euphoria
- Drowsiness
- Mental confusion
Over time, continued use can result in dependency, where users develop a strong urge to keep using heroin even when it starts negatively impacting their lives.
Heroin and Depression – Is Heroin a Depressant?
Heroin is indeed classified as a depressant. This means it slows down brain function and impacts the body’s ability to perceive pain. While it may initially produce feelings of euphoria and well-being, these effects are temporary. Over time, heroin can contribute to the onset of depressive symptoms such as feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and persistent sadness.
Moreover, for individuals already suffering from depression, heroin use can amplify these feelings. The cycle of euphoria and withdrawal can exacerbate existing depressive symptoms, leading to a worsened state of mental health.
Treatment for Heroin Addiction
Overcoming heroin addiction often requires professional intervention. This can take various forms, including therapy programs, detoxification, and medication-assisted treatment.
Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management, can help individuals understand their addiction and develop coping strategies. Detoxification is the process of removing the drug from the body, often under medical supervision, due to the severe withdrawal symptoms that can occur.
Medication-assisted treatment involves the use of medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These drugs work by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain as heroin, but more gently, helping to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Contact a Colorado Heroin Addiction Treatment Center Today
While heroin is a depressant, and its use can lead to severe physical and mental health issues, it is essential to remember that help is available. With proper treatment and support, overcoming heroin addiction is possible. Reach out to a local treatment center near you for heroin abuse treatment today.
