Heroin is one of the most potent drugs available, second only to fentanyl. In recent years, heroin use has been on the rise across all demographics.1 Heroin dependence and addiction are complex conditions that require professional interventions for successful recovery.
The heroin addiction treatment program at Hill Country provides comprehensive medically assisted detox and therapy to address not just the symptoms but the underlying factors that contribute to addiction. As leaders in addiction treatment, the experienced, caring team at Hill Country knows that individualized treatment is essential for helping clients break the cycle of addiction. If you or a loved one needs help to stop using heroin, we are here to help. Contact us using our online form or call 1.844.675.1628. Staff is on hand 24 hours a day.
Understanding Dependence vs. Addiction
The terms dependence and addiction are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Understanding the difference is key to identifying the best treatment program for your needs. Both dependence and addiction begin with substance abuse. As substance abuse becomes more frequent, dependence becomes more likely. Having a substance dependence increases the risk of addiction. Following is a closer look at dependence vs. addiction:
Dependence
Dependence refers to a psychological or physical reliance on a substance. With increased substance abuse, the body and mind become dependent on it to feel “normal.” Tolerance develops, meaning higher or more frequent doses are needed to achieve the desired effects. When a person reduces the dosage or stops using the substance, they experience physical withdrawal symptoms, which are similar to flu symptoms, and mental withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, depression, and cravings.
Dependence can occur without addiction. For example, someone dependent on prescription painkillers to manage chronic pain may be dependent on them without demonstrating drug-seeking behaviors.
Addiction
Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease characterized by the compulsive seeking and use of substances despite adverse outcomes resulting from substance use. Addiction involves dependence but goes beyond because substance use becomes the primary focus of daily life, typically at the expense of all other priorities and responsibilities.
The American Psychological Association (APA) publishes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the guideline for diagnosing mental health conditions. In 2013, the DSM-IV replaced the terms “substance abuse” and “substance dependence” with “substance use disorder” (SUD). Substance use disorder is now the diagnostic term for addiction and is classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Dependence Can Save Lives
Heroin dependence is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. There is no such thing as a “safe” amount of heroin. The risk of overdose is present with every use, particularly when heroin is laced with fentanyl, which is often the case.2
If you or someone you know is using heroin, it is vital to recognize the signs of heroin dependence, which can include the following:
- Tolerance, or needing more heroin to produce the same effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using heroin
- Having physical and psychological cravings for heroin
- Neglecting work, school, or home responsibilities
- Breakdown in personal and professional relationships
- Experiencing financial or legal issues related to heroin use
- Withdrawal from family, friends, and previously enjoyed activities
- Spending the majority of time getting, using, or recovering from heroin use
- An inability to stop using heroin despite the negative consequences
The stigma associated with heroin dependence and the desire to avoid painful withdrawal symptoms are common barriers to seeking treatment. At Hill Country, we understand these obstacles and provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free treatment environment with a medically supervised heroin detox program.
Break Free from Heroin Dependence at Hill Country Today
As a leader in addiction and co-occurring disorders treatment in the San Antonio, TX, area, Hill Country relies on evidence-based and holistic therapies to help individuals and their families heal mentally, physically, and spiritually to overcome heroin dependence. Through our commitment to individualized care, we meet you where you are to ensure your treatment program supports your current needs and recovery goals. Call 1.844.675.1628 to speak with a member of our team or complete our online form.
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