Megan Hull is a content specialist who edits, writes and ideates content to help people find recovery. As a Florida born-and-raised... read more
Wendy J. Weber is a pharmacist with almost 20 years of experience in acute care clinical practice, hospital... read more
Heroin is a drug that is wreaking havoc on cities and towns around the United States. What often begins as prescription pain pill abuse often turns to the use of heroin.
Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs available today. Despite its addictive qualities and high overdose risk, many people continue to use this opioid drug. For some people, the destruction of heroin becomes apparent very quickly, while it can take longer for others. There are even people who are addicted to heroin that can maintain a job while they use the drug, but this doesn’t often last for long.
When you have a family member who is addicted to heroin, you tend to feel the impacts just as much if not more so than the person using the drug. Addiction is often called a family disease because of the ripple effects it has on everyone around the person who is addicted.
So what can you do? Heroin addiction can cause the person who is addicted to lash out against you and place blame on you. It can also lead to lying, stealing and risky behaviors.
While you can’t cure an addiction to heroin, you can help someone who is addicted to heroin by taking action with specific steps and support:
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700Another way people often enable rather than help a person addicted to heroin is by covering for them or lying to help prevent people from discovering what’s really happening.
It’s important that when you’re looking at how to help someone who is addicted to heroin, you learn to say no, set boundaries and remain firm.
It is possible to provide support without enabling. This means you can love someone who is addicted to heroin without providing them a shield from the negative consequences of their actions. You can find more healthy ways to support them, such as helping them find a treatment program or going to therapy sessions with them.
You can also speak with a therapist who has experience dealing with addiction.
If other members of your family don’t already know, you need to make them aware. One of the worst things you can do for someone with a heroin use disorder is to try to conceal their addiction, as it often makes the problem worse.
You may even be able to provide financial or emotional help for a treatment program, which would be an example of positive support.
Ultimately, while there are few things you can do to help someone who is addicted to heroin. A good first step is to take care of yourself and find a support network that will allow you to remain strong, even against manipulation. Start learning what you can about the disease of addiction and heroin use, and then research treatment options. You should also learn to set clear, healthy boundaries and be firm in your resolve to stick to them.
To find more resources for someone you love, contact The Recovery Village today. With treatment facilities across the country, a representative can help you find a program to fit you and your loved one’s needs.
