Nobody chooses to become addicted to drugs; when they do, though, it can have a devastating effect and can literally destroy the persons life. The first time an individual takes an illegal drug such as heroin, he or she is making a choice. However, if this person continues to take this drug, he or she is running the risk of developing a tolerance to it and becoming addicted.
Heroin is an extremely addictive drug that initially produces a feeling of well-being in the user. The problem with heroin is that those who take it can get hooked very quickly. When users develop a tolerance to heroin, they may be tempted to take larger doses, which can increase the risk of overdose and death.
It is important to note that tolerance to heroin drops quite quickly when it hasnt been taken for a few days. Many heroin addicts in recovery run the risk of overdose if they relapse and attempt to take the same high doses that they were taking before they quit. Heroin causes very strong cravings, which can continue for many months while in recovery. It is no surprise, therefore, that many recovering heroin addicts will relapse.
Tragedy
Kingsdown Parish councillor Kerry Barnett has spoken of the death of her brother Ross Dickason from a heroin overdose. She said Ross began using drugs at the young age of fourteen after experiencing abuse in childhood. Ross had two children, and Kerry said he was working hard to stay clean for his family. He quit heroin in 2000 and had not taken the drug for more than ten years.
Nevertheless, Ross entered a programme of rehabilitation in South Africa for treatment for a cannabis addiction. While there, he was prescribed the strong sedative zopiclone to help him sleep. Tragically, this drug produces similar effects to opiates such as heroin, and Ross found himself struggling once again with a heroin addiction.
Devastating Consequences
Kerry said, Within months, his whole life fell apart from this medication; they were giving him as much as he wanted and he was putting everyone through hell. He went to prison and, when he came out, he was addicted to just about everything. He lost everything after that his kids, his partner he was completely out of control.
When Ross came out of prison, he developed deep vein thrombosis, which is a common complication suffered by heroin users. He had to have his leg amputated, and just three months later, he was dead from a heroin overdose.
Kerry said, If Ross was here now and he was able to have a coherent conversation, he would be devastated about the mess he has caused. He grew up in an abusive environment; he would never want this. The hardest part is that his children do not believe they had a father that loved them because all they can see is that he chose drugs over them.
Kerry was keen to point out that, while the mental health teams working with Ross were amazing, he needed specific help for addiction and not support for mental health issues. She said that Ross was a victim of the system we put addicts into.
The pathology report on Rosss body found a fatal dose of cocaine, cannabis, codeine, and heroin had been taken, but the coroner said it was unclear whether Ross had taken a stronger dose than he meant to. She added that his death could well have been accidental.
Help for Addiction
A heroin addiction is devastating to those affected as well as to the people they love. If you or someone you love is suffering because of this deadly drug, contact us here at Rehab Helper today. We can provide you with information and advice on how to overcome this addiction and start to live a clean and sober life.
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