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Symptoms of Heroin Addiction in a Friend

ADVANCE MINDS • April 13, 2025

Advance Minds Blog

A safe space to explore subjects within the community such as mental health, substance abuse and personal identity.
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Noticing signs of heroin addiction in someone you care about can be both heartbreaking and confusing.

The earlier you recognize the symptoms, the sooner you can help them find support and treatment.


🚩 Behavioral Signs

Changes in behavior are often the first noticeable signs:

  • Sudden withdrawal from friends and family
  • Neglecting responsibilities (work, school, or home life)
  • Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
  • Secretive behavior or lying
  • Borrowing or stealing money frequently


🧠 Mental and Emotional Changes

Heroin impacts mood and cognitive function. Look for:

  • Extreme mood swings
  • Periods of drowsiness or “nodding off”
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Lack of motivation or energy


💉 Physical Symptoms

Heroin use has a range of physical effects:

  • Constricted (pinpoint) pupils
  • Track marks on arms or other injection sites
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Runny nose or frequent nosebleeds (if snorted)
  • Flushed skin or itching
  • Slow or shallow breathing


🧳 Paraphernalia You Might Find

You may come across items that are often used with heroin:

  • Burnt spoons
  • Syringes or needles
  • Rubber tubing or belts (used as tourniquets)
  • Foil with burn marks
  • Small baggies with powdery residue


❤️ How to Help

Approaching a friend about heroin addiction is difficult but crucial:

  • Be compassionate, not judgmental
  • Choose a calm, private time to talk
  • Encourage them to seek professional help
  • Offer to support them through the process
  • Educate yourself on addiction and treatment options



✨ Final Thoughts

Heroin addiction is serious, but recovery is possible with the right support. By recognizing the signs early and responding with empathy and action, you could help save your friend’s life and guide them toward healing.

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