Overcoming an opioid addiction, such as heroin, can be challenging and daunting. But with the proper support and guidance, it’s possible to safely detox from heroin and start on the road to recovery.
Heroin is considered one of the most addictive substances in the world, and detoxing from it can be an arduous experience. As the body adjusts to the absence of the drug and begins to rid itself of toxins, various things may happen physically and psychologically. Understanding these reactions, known as withdrawal symptoms, is critical to safely detoxing from heroin.
To understand why heroin detox requires safety considerations, let’s first look at what happens when someone completely stops or dramatically reduces their heroin use.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal symptoms are both acute (short-term) and prolonged (long-term). Short-term symptoms typically begin within 8-24 hours after the last use. They peak between 1-3 days and can last up to 10 days. Common symptoms may include:
- Insomnia, sweating, and chills
- Anxiety and agitation
- Muscle aches and pains
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Long-term symptoms can last a few weeks or several months and may include a combination of:
- Fatigue, irritability, and depression
- Decreased attention span
- Difficulty making decisions
- Short-term memory problems
- Reduced concentration and focus
- General sense of feeling down (dysphoria)
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy (anhedonia)
The Importance of Seeking Professional Help for Heroin Detox
Trying to detox from heroin without supervision can be risky. In some instances, it can even be life-threatening.
For example, when someone suddenly stops or cuts back on an opiate, their tolerance level also begins to drop. If that person were to experience a relapse, they would find themselves at risk for a life-threatening overdose.
A professional detox program alleviates these concerns. Centers like Acworth Outpatient Detox provide education and support to help you overcome those first hurdles of withdrawal, reduce cravings, manage the earliest phase of your sobriety, and help you sustain it in the long term.
Find Freedom from Heroin Addiction Today
If you or someone you love has decided to stop using heroin, we’re here to help. Not everyone has the time for inpatient treatment, and we understand that. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Outpatient treatment programs like the one at Acworth Outpatient Detox are specifically designed to give people the support they need while allowing them to keep up with their work and family responsibilities.
At Acworth Outpatient Detox, we understand the pressures of life’s obligations and the need for independence. That’s why we believe in helping people by empowering them to make better decisions. With our staff’s exceptional care, Acworth’s unique model helps you cope with the emotional challenges of recovery and begin addressing the underlying issues that contributed to your substance use.
Our counseling services, individual case management, and 24/7 medical personnel line provide a comprehensive support mechanism to safely detox from heroin, manage withdrawal symptoms, and begin your recovery.
Contact us to learn more about our approach and see if outpatient detox is right for you.
