Signs of Heroin Use

Heroin is a highly potent and addictive drug with one of the highest rates of abuse in the nation and around the world. With 560,000 people using heroin in the past year, it is likely that you know someone who is using the drug. You should be aware of the signs of heroin use, and encourage someone who is using heroin to get help.

Some of the most common signs of heroin use include dramatic changes in one's life. For instance, poor performance at work or school are signs to look out for. When someone is abusing heroin, he or she may not take good care of him or herself. This may result in poor personal hygiene, such as not taking regular showers and changing one's clothing or performing minor personal grooming tasks. Tendency Individuals using heroin often disregard the natural consequences of his or her actions and he or she may do reckless things to get their drugs. This can result in theft and other more serious destructive behavior that can put them in trouble with the law or those that are close to them. The most important thing to the heroin user is getting more of the drug and using it at all costs, even if they destroy their lives and relationships with others in the process.

Another common sign of heroin use is withdrawal relationships and normal activities. Heroin users will tend to discard productive and positive relationships and influences and choose more dangerous friends and acquaintances that can support their addiction. Individuals involved in heroin abuse may also become more secretive, desiring to be left alone by family members and friends. They will begin to withdraw from social and previously enjoyed activities, such as going out with friends or participating in clubs and organizations.

Individuals who think someone they know is abusing heroin should be aware of the signs of heroin use, so that they may encourage that person to get help.

While every individual is different, below is an overview of the most common signs of heroin use:

• A "lost" look in the eyes
• Apathetic or lethargic behavior
• Bouts of depression
• Chills and fever
• Constricted pupils
• Deceptive behavior with friends and family members
• Displays of hostility towards others
• Taking part in criminal or reckless behavior to support addiction
• Euphoria
• Loss of interest in friends or favorites hobbies/activities
• Being dishonest about one's whereabouts
• Needle marks on arms or other parts of the body
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Runny nose, sneezing or constant sniffing
• Shallow breathing
• Slurred speech
• Stealing money to support heroin habit
• Strong drug cravings
• Very little motivation and no desire to make future plans

If any of the above common signs of heroin use are noticed, and it is evident that someone you know if using the drug, contact your nearest drug treatment problem where a professional drug treatment counselor can guide you on what steps to take to get help. These signs could also be associated with other drugs of abuse, and it is important that the individual get the correct treatment as needed as soon as possible.