Adolescence is a difficult time, even without a heroin epidemic. Complex changes related to developing and maturing lead to awkward emotions, self-esteem problems, and anxiety. Peer pressure and socializing can create stress, as can balancing academics, personal development, and hobbies. Since the human brain’s decision-making centers are constantly evolving until your late 20s, teenagers are especially prone to poor decision making and risky behaviors. Unfortunately, recreational drug use is relatively common during young adulthood and adolescents. While alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco are the most common drugs teenagers’ experiment with, many teens can also gain access to harder prescription medications. The heroin epidemic has impacted nearly every community in the United States, including high schools and college campuses. If it is affecting you, it’s time to find a heroin addiction treatment center in California.
The Heroin Epidemic
The heroin epidemic has led to record rates of addiction and overdoses. Drug-related deaths are the most common cause of accidental death in the country. Street heroin is especially dangerous, as highly potent opiates like Fentanyl have regularly been used to cut heroin, playing a role in the prevalence of fatal overdoses during the heroin crisis. Heroin is a powerful opiate that is stronger than prescription opiates like Vicodin and Percocet. It is also physically addicting. One of the many dangers of heroin is that oftentimes users choose to inject it, which leads to a higher risk of overdoses and contracting infections like Hepatitis C and AIDS. Heroin causes an intense rush, which occurs because it forces your brain to release excessive amounts of dopamine. Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter that is responsible for pleasurable feelings. Sings of heroin use and addiction include:
- Finding paraphernalia, such as aluminum foil, razor blades or syringes
- Changes in personality
- Changes in physical appearances, such as weight loss or pale skin
- Wearing long sleeves in hot weather
- Engaging in criminal activity, such as theft
How to Treat Heroin AddictionÂ
While addiction is a chronic condition, treatment can drastically increase recovery outcomes. Heroin addiction oftentimes causes physical dependency, meaning that when you immediately stop using, you can experience painful and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of heroin withdrawal can include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Sweats, chills, tremors, and shakes
- Depression and anxiety
- Restless legs, cramps, and pain
- Insomnia
- Seizures and dehydration
Inpatient and outpatient programs can both provide evidence-based and holistic treatments that help improve your chances for recovery. Inpatient programs are residential and are best for severe addictions or when a higher level of care is beneficial. Outpatient programs are great step downs from inpatient treatment. Group and individual therapy are designed to help improve your decision-making process, conflict resolution skills, and coping skills. Triggers and cravings are intense, especially in early recovery. Treatment helps teach you how to deal with negative emotions and thoughts and change negative behaviors.
Destination for Teens Can Help
The heroin epidemic has impacted millions of Americans because it’s pull doesn’t discriminate. People are susceptible to addiction regardless of their age, race, income or background. Destinations for Teens, the best heroin treatment center California offers for teens, is here to help. To learn more about our programs, call us today at 877.466.0620.