Heroin Addiction Treatment in Chattanooga

Understanding Heroin's Impact on Body and Mind

Heroin creates feelings of euphoria and relaxation. However, these surface level effects are only a fraction of the impact that the drug has on the body and mind. In the short term, a person who is using heroin may experience effects such as itching, nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, dry mouth, impaired mental function, and slowed heart rate and breathing.

As a person continues using heroin, their dependence on the drug increases. This causes a person to require more of the drug to experience the same effects. At greater quantities, heroin causes more severe damage. Long-term heroin use often causes organ damage and effects on the brain that can permanently alter a person’s mental abilities.

Immediate Help for Heroin Addiction

Heroin is not only extremely addictive, it is deadly. When a person is struggling with heroin abuse, time is of the essence. They must get professional help as soon as possible.

Identifying an addiction is the first step to recovering from it. It is important to be aware of the signs of heroin use so you can identify an issue and begin moving toward recovery.

Heroin use may exhibited through signs such as:

• The presence of paraphernalia, such as needles
• “Track marks” (needle marks on the arms, hands, legs, and other spots on the body)
• Financial difficulties
• Avoiding obligations and interaction with friends and family
• Feeling/appearing sluggish or irritable
• Behavioral changes
• Secretive or dishonest actions

Safe Heroin Detoxification and Withdrawal Management

Heroin use creates a chemical dependence that is difficult to break. Once the body gets used to using heroin, it can create negative effects when the addiction is not fed. This can lead to severe symptoms during the period known as withdrawal.

Because dependence on heroin is so strong, medical detox programs are often necessary parts of treatment. Detoxing, rather than quitting “cold turkey” allows a person who is struggling with addiction to safely taper down use and limit the severity of withdrawal symptoms. We offer medication assisted treatment for people who are in need of this method of addressing addiction.

Long Term Effects of Heroin Use:

• Insomnia
• Collapsed veins
• Stomach cramping
• Liver & kidney disease
• Depression
• Damaged tissue
• Infection of heart lining

Comprehensive Recovery Programs at Chattanooga Recovery Center

We offer multiple programs that can serve as an essential part of your recovery. In addition to our medication assisted treatment program, we offer a partial hospitalization program that offers medical support in combination with the therapy and structure of a typical recovery program. For people who have obligations that they must fulfill and cannot participate in an immersive program, we offer an intensive outpatient program that allows patients to continue living at home. We also have a night outpatient treatment program for people who are unable to complete treatment during the day.

Start Your Journey to Recovery Today

From the start, we are here to guide you toward recovery. Your first phone conversation with our team is an opportunity for you to answer questions and learn more about Chattanooga Recovery Center, while we learn more about you and your situation. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you begin treatment.

Local Resources for Heroin Addiction Recovery in Chattanooga

In Chattanooga, the impact of heroin addiction is felt deeply within our community. Local resources, such as the Chattanooga Department of Health, provide valuable information and support for those struggling with substance use. The city has seen a rise in opioid-related issues, making it crucial for residents to understand the available help and how to access it. If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of heroin addiction, you are not alone, and there are pathways to recovery right here in our city.

Many individuals in Chattanooga experience pain points related to addiction, including financial strain, social isolation, and health complications. The local economy can make it difficult for those in recovery to find stable employment, which adds to the stress of overcoming addiction. Additionally, the stigma surrounding substance use can lead to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek help. Understanding these challenges is essential for effective recovery, and our programs are designed to address them head-on.

Local government entities, such as the Hamilton County Drug Court, are working tirelessly to provide support and resources for those affected by addiction. They offer programs that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, recognizing that recovery is a journey that requires compassion and understanding. By connecting with these resources, individuals can find the support they need to navigate their recovery journey.

At Chattanooga Recovery Center, we are committed to helping our community heal. Our comprehensive recovery programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of Chattanooga residents, ensuring that you receive the care and support necessary to reclaim your life. Whether you are seeking detoxification, outpatient treatment, or ongoing support, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Heroin Addiction FAQ

• What does heroin do to your brain?
  Heroin is a synthetic opiate that mostly masks pain. When used, heroin binds to specific neurons in the brain that release dopamine and serotonin to reduce pain and induce relaxation. With continued use, the receptors break down and stop producing dopamine on their own because they become dependent on the heroin to do it. Heroin addiction can cause these changes permanently to the brain, which results in depression and anxiety when the drug has not been recently used.
• What does heroin do to your body?
  Heroin can wreak havoc on your body as much as it can your brain. One of the most dangerous side effects of continued heroin use – not even necessarily severe abuse – is the risk of collapsed veins. The drug can destroy the tissues of your veins, as well as your heart’s inner lining and valves. Cardiovascular failure may occur without warning. Heroin abuse is also known to cause severe liver and kidney damage.

Complete our contact form or call (423) 226-5331 to get in touch with our team and get started on your path to recovery.