Identifying Heroin Paraphernalia

Seeing heroin paraphernalia around can be a sign your loved one is addicted to this dangerous opioid. Recognizing these objects can be the first step to get them help.

Each day more than 115 Americans die from overdosing on opioids. Heroin is one of the strongest and most potent opioids currently used and is a common street drug in many areas of the country. Heroin use is both highly prevalent and highly dangerous, with sometimes fatal consequences. Being familiar with heroin paraphernalia can help you understand if someone is using heroin and recognize that they need help.

Heroin Use Statistics

Heroin use is somewhat common, but less commonly used than most other opioids. According to public health data, one in two hundred people between the ages of 18–25 use heroin. One in three hundred people over the age of 25 use heroin, and statistics even show that 0.3% of 8th graders are using heroin.

Heroin use is closely connected with the national opioid crisis. Statistics show that 80% of people who use heroin first abuse prescription opioids. Some have expressed concern that the recent crackdown on opioid-based pain medication may be driving people addicted to pain medications to heroin as these medications become less available. While the national response to the opioid crisis has been expanding, opioid-related deaths continue to grow in the United States.

Social Isolation, COVID-19, & Substance Abuse

As the COVID-19 pandemic has affected life across the world, one downside it has created is increased substance use. While data is still just beginning to emerge, surveys show that 20% of people with a substance use disorder have increased their substance use during the pandemic.

Increased stress caused by the pandemic and free time with nothing to do at home are thought to contribute to increased substance use. As people try to cope with social isolation and the fears caused by the pandemic, many experts believe that substance use problems will continue to increase.

Types of Heroin Paraphernalia

There are three main ways that heroin is used, and heroin paraphernalia will vary based on the method. The most common method is injection, but heroin may also be smoked or snorted. Some of the most common types of heroin paraphernalia include:

Signs of Heroin Use

There are several signs that heroin is being used, aside from the discovery of heroin paraphernalia. Heroin and other opioids slow the body’s nervous system. This results in physical symptoms such as:

• Slower breathing
• Decreased responsiveness
• Small pupils
• Slurred speech
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness or loss of alertness

Someone who is injecting heroin may also have scars that look like lines in the arms’ veins. If someone who has used heroin is breathing slowly or not responding well when you talk to them, they may be overdosing and you should call 911 immediately.

There are also general behavioral signs of drug addiction that may help you recognize if substance abuse is occurring. These signs include:

• Poor performance at work or school
• Changes in friend groups
• Missing obligations
• Increased isolation or withdrawing from social settings
• Big changes in behavior
• New financial problems
• Legal problems
• Decreased hygiene or decreased attention to personal appearance

These signs are not specific to heroin but should be considered when evaluating someone for potential heroin abuse.

What To Do If You Find Heroin Paraphernalia

If you find heroin paraphernalia, you should ideally seek out a mental health professional for advice on how to talk to the person about their substance use. The Recovery Village’s addiction experts can guide you on the best approach and whether an organized intervention may be necessary.

Addiction treatment can help your loved one if they’re struggling with a heroin addiction. Treatment generally begins with medical detox and inpatient care, but may also include medication-assisted treatment and teletherapy options to receive treatment at home during COVID-19.

Finding Help for Heroin Addiction

If someone you love is struggling with an addiction to heroin, they don’t have to struggle alone. The Recovery Village at Baptist Health has a strong record of helping those with heroin addiction achieve long-term recovery. Reach out to one of our caring team members today to learn more about treatment options that can help your loved one start the path to a heroin-free life.

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