Heroin is also known as the horse, H, and smack, and in the past thirty years, the use of heroin has skyrocketed through all levels of society and all parts of the United States. This opiate is known to be extremely addictive, and though it is a myth that a person can become addicted after one use, prolonged exposure to this drug does lead to an addiction that is very difficult to shake. In Arizona specifically, over the last few years, it has been the third most abused drug after amphetamines and marijuana.

Heroin’s ability to ruin lives and to cause damage in a ripple effect in all who are around the user is famous. Some people believe that heroin addiction is something for older people or hardcore users, but the truth is that there are growing numbers of people under 30 who have at least sampled the drug.

If you or someone you know is having issues with this dangerous controlled substance, it is important to remember that there are things that can be done. Addiction is not the end of life. It is a challenge, and it can be a dangerous one, but there are many people who have been addicted to heroin and gone on to live satisfying lives without it. Whether you are having issues with the drug yourself or you have a friend or a family member who is dealing with this issue, it is essential for you to consider how to break the cycle of addiction.

Cut Off Contact

Peer pressure isn’t just something that happens to children and teens. It remains a scientific fact that you are inclined to act in a way that is similar to the people around you. Even if you are not all completely identical, there is the fact that you are inclined to like the same things and to enjoy the same activities. If you share a drug habit with your friends or acquaintances, that means it will be that much harder to stay off of the drug. Cut off contact with people who use drugs, and recovery gets much easier.

Let Someone Know

There are some people who manage to defeat heroin addiction on their own, but for the most part, a support system is instrumental in making sure that you can move forward. In our society, heroin addiction and drug addiction of any kind is not a simple issue. You may be weighed down with feelings of fear, shame, and disgust, and you may be terrified that the people around you will feel the same. The truth is that doing it alone removes a lot of accountability for recovery. Having someone who knows what you are going through can make a huge difference in your ability to break this cycle.

Craving Replacement

It seems simple and trite to say that you need to replace the craving for heroin with something else. However, this is exactly what you need to do. Heroin cravings are physical things. They are urges that will overtake your body, and if you focus on them, you will find that this addiction becomes harder to beat than ever. There are many options for craving replacements. Some people will use things like herbal supplements, especially ones that are designed to instill calm and peace in the body. Other people choose to replace the cravings with certain food. Still, others battle the cravings into submission with exercise or some kind of physical activity. This is something that can make a huge difference to your recovery.

Realize You Are Not Alone

Drug addiction is a dramatically isolating experience. People believe that they are all alone, and then when recovery needs to happen, they shy away from the company of others. They may think that no one understands them or that they are beyond help from “normal” people. The truth is that drug addiction is a common problem, and there are people and facilities out there that are designed to help. A rehabilitation center is a place that can do a world of good if you come to it with the right attitude. Be willing to reach out, and you may be surprised to see who reaches back.

Heroin addiction is a terrible thing, but it is something that can be overcome. If you or someone close is having issues with heroin, now is the time to seek help!