One of the best solutions to the rising heroin addiction epidemic is seeking early treatment. Seeking early treatment will not only benefit the person’s health, but can also provide a supportive community and an aftercare program that helps the patient fully recover from heroin addiction. Seeking early treatment will aid patients in preventing dependence on the drug and may reduce their risk of relapse or overdosing on heroin.
Heroin is a highly addictive drug that is responsible for thousands of overdose deaths.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 2002 and 2013, the rate of heroin-related overdose deaths nearly quadrupled, and more than 8,200 people died in 2013. The alarming rates of overdose deaths have caused a nationwide epidemic in the United States. The causes for the heroin addiction resurgence is from increasing rates of addiction to opioid prescription drugs and the supply of heroin in the United States has increased, causing more people to access and afford the drug.
Recognizing the Risk Factors of Heroin Addiction
Recognizing the risk factors associated with heroin addiction is the first step towards seeking early treatment. It is vital to focus on the risk factors of heroin addiction to prevent dependence on the highly addictive drug, especially for young adults. In 2013, over 681,000 people, ages 12 and over, used heroin.[1] It is evident that heroin addiction has reached people of all ages, racial backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels. With the largest population of heroin addiction being young adults, ages 18-25, it is absolutely essential to recognize warning signs of heroin users and immediately refer them to treatment facilities.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies has identified risk factors to recognize misuses of opioid prescription drugs that may lead to heroin addiction:
- Having a history of mental health-related illnesses such as depression, anxiety, or experiencing suicidal thoughts
- Experiencing high levels of chronic pain that may lead to the use of opioid prescription drugs
- Having a history of alcohol or other drug abuse increases the likelihood of addiction to opioid prescription drugs
- Participating in delinquent behaviors or being involved in social groups that engage in destructive behaviors involving drugs
- Having personality characteristics that include anger or impulsivity
- Experiencing abuse during childhood or being a part of an overall unsupportive family
Why Seeking Early Treatment is Vital in Recovering from Heroin Addiction
Seeking early treatment in recovering from heroin addiction will provide individuals with a chance to be cared for by a community of professionals that are trained to meet the needs of all patients who are struggling for purpose. The professionally trained staff of pastors, counselors, and therapists at Covenant Hills understand the depths of heroin addiction and the risk factors associated with the use of prescription opioid drugs.
Covenant Hills offers a faith-based approach that ensures a journey for the patient that is filled with spiritual fulfillment and a lifelong opportunity to feel supported and cared for by God. The staff facilitates individual and group therapy sessions and provides a community of support to patients to help them avoid a relapse and instill purpose again back into their lives.
Often, addiction is caused by a detachment of one’s self-worth and an overall disconnection with the community of God. Seeking an early treatment option at Covenant Hills exposes the patient to relationships that are built on transparency and accountability necessary to avoid a strong physical and mental dependence on heroin. Covenant Hills provides a multifaceted program that helps individuals establish productive coping mechanisms to avoid dependence on heroin addiction and instill a strong connection with God. Establishing a strong spiritual foundation during treatment for heroin addiction will cleanse the individual’s mind, body, and soul and will ultimately nourish the body with the the strength needed to overcome heroin addiction.
Covenant Hills Treatment Center offers a Christian-based approach to helping anyone suffering from an addiction fully recover and live the life of their dreams. Their diverse program options, individually-designed quality care, highly trained professional staff, and prestigious accreditations meets the needs of all individuals. Covenant Hills is equipped in helping anyone struggling with an addiction restore their spiritual foundation by restoring their connection with God.
If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, call Covenant Hills treatment specialists today at 800.662.2873 for a free and confidential assessment. #surrender
[1] http://www.samhsa.gov/capt/sites/default/files/resources/heroin-brief.pdf
