Speak to a treatment specialist now. Call: 1.855.970.2547
Call 1.855.970.2547, 24/7 to speak to a treatment specialist for free. Get help finding the best treatment options available for yourself or a loved one. Rehab centers, detox centers, inpatient, outpatient programs, therapy, counseling, sober living housing and more. A 5 minute phone call is all it takes to get you the help you need. Get help now. Call: 1.855.970.2547
How to help your friends and family quit heroin:
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Whether it’s your friend, your friends’ friend, or a relative that you’re trying to help, the first thing that we’re going to have to do, if we’re going to get any help to them at all, is to try our best to become as calm and as kind as we possibly can and then proceed to help them in a kind and loving manner.
Many times, for friends, it’s a lot easier to help a fellow friend in need because many times friends are less angry and judgmental towards the addict than family members are. |
But that's because in most cases, it’s the family who has to endure the impact of the consequences for the loved ones’ addiction. However, as a friend or a relative, we can’t really help them if we’re angry with them. We can’t really help them when we’re mad.
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The only way that we’re going to be able to help anyone in any manner is to feel sorry for them, knowing very well that if they continue to use heroin, then most likely, they’re lives are going to get worse - much worse.
And if they’ve hurt you or have done you wrong in any way, then we’re going to have to battle against those feelings of anger and resentment in order to become as kind and as loving as possible. Because that’s the only way that we’re going to be able to help anyone, is to help them with love and kindness. |
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But believe it or not, it’s possible to show love and kindness and to be firm as well. And in the end, you will have to be firm. Otherwise, nothing will change.
WARNING: Get Narcan (Naloxone) and save a life!
If your friend, family member or loved one is using heroin then you need to get Narcan (Naloxone), the overdose reversal drug that counteracts and reverses the deadly effects of a heroin overdose and brings them back to life. If your friend, family member or loved one is using heroin then it’s very possible for them to fall into a fatal overdose at any time. Fatal heroin and opioid overdoses are on an alarming rise. And if you happen to find your loved one falling into an overdose then you may have time to save them and make an attempt to revive them with Naloxone (Narcan) and possibly save their life. Don’t get caught off guard. Get Naloxone (Narcan).
For more information on what Narcan (Naloxone) is, how to get it, how to use it and what an overdose is, please read my article, "Get Narcan Naloxone the Opioid Overdose Reversal Drug and Save a Life"
For more information on what Narcan (Naloxone) is, how to get it, how to use it and what an overdose is, please read my article, "Get Narcan Naloxone the Opioid Overdose Reversal Drug and Save a Life"
Learn about heroin and heroin addiction:
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The next thing you need to do is to learn about heroin, what heroin is and what heroin does, and realize that heroin is no ordinary drug, and a heroin addiction is not the same as any other drug addiction. This is heroin. And heroin is the worst and most addictive drug in the world. And a heroin addiction is the worst type of addiction that any drug user could ever have. It’s important to learn about heroin, other drugs and drug addiction as well. And it’s important to learn why people do the things they do; because someday, you may come across someone else who may need your help with a drug addiction as well.
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It may be your neighbor, a friend, or a complete stranger, but as time goes on, more and more people are going to have problems with drugs and drug addiction and at a much younger age as well. And the more you know about drugs and addiction, then the better prepared you'll be for when the time comes to help them. And who knows, you just might save a life as well.
Heroin, comes in the form of powder; white, grey or brown powder. It also comes in the form of a black, tar substance known as black tar heroin. Heroin is consumed by snorting, smoking or injecting the drug. Most people start off by snorting or smoking heroin but eventually end up injecting it.
Once consumed the heroin is converted to morphine in the brain and attaches itself to the opioid receptors (pain receptors) within the brain to block all pain, physical and emotional pain as well. The user then goes on to feel an intense euphoria while relieving all withdrawals symptoms as well. And all of this takes place within a matter of minutes and sometimes seconds if the user has injected the drug. It's not that difficult to tell when a person is using heroin.
Heroin, comes in the form of powder; white, grey or brown powder. It also comes in the form of a black, tar substance known as black tar heroin. Heroin is consumed by snorting, smoking or injecting the drug. Most people start off by snorting or smoking heroin but eventually end up injecting it.
Once consumed the heroin is converted to morphine in the brain and attaches itself to the opioid receptors (pain receptors) within the brain to block all pain, physical and emotional pain as well. The user then goes on to feel an intense euphoria while relieving all withdrawals symptoms as well. And all of this takes place within a matter of minutes and sometimes seconds if the user has injected the drug. It's not that difficult to tell when a person is using heroin.
Signs of heroin use include:
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NOTE: Some long term users may not display nodding or drowsiness and/or may only do so for a very short period of time, as long term users have built up a high level of tolerance to the drug.
Health risks for continual use of heroin include: infection of the heart lining and valves; kidney disease; liver disease, (which can lead to hepatitis C); pulmonary complications including various types of pneumonia; skin infections; abscesses; collapsed veins; increased risk of contracting (HIV) and other blood-borne viruses. And even sharing snorting straws has been linked to hepatitis transmission. The effects associated with smoking heroin can include: Leukoencephalopathy, which is the destruction of the myelin sheaths that cover nerve fibers; Dyspnea, which is shortness of breath, usually associated with disease of the heart or lungs; Status Asthmaticus, which is a long-lasting and severe asthma attack that does not respond to standard treatment; and reduced pulmonary function which can lead to pneumonia. There are many health risks and dangers involved with the continued use of heroin, including respiratory failure and death from an overdose.
It only takes about a week to get hooked on heroin. But once they’re hooked, they’re hooked. Their body is physically addicted to the drug. They have to have it every day, or else they’ll get sick - really sick. If they don’t use heroin, their body will go into withdrawals. And when it comes to helping the addict, there’s a good chance that they’re going to tell you that “you don’t understand what they go through or what it’s like to be sick”. And that’s why it’s important to know what it’s like to be sick from heroin and opiate withdrawal.
Health risks for continual use of heroin include: infection of the heart lining and valves; kidney disease; liver disease, (which can lead to hepatitis C); pulmonary complications including various types of pneumonia; skin infections; abscesses; collapsed veins; increased risk of contracting (HIV) and other blood-borne viruses. And even sharing snorting straws has been linked to hepatitis transmission. The effects associated with smoking heroin can include: Leukoencephalopathy, which is the destruction of the myelin sheaths that cover nerve fibers; Dyspnea, which is shortness of breath, usually associated with disease of the heart or lungs; Status Asthmaticus, which is a long-lasting and severe asthma attack that does not respond to standard treatment; and reduced pulmonary function which can lead to pneumonia. There are many health risks and dangers involved with the continued use of heroin, including respiratory failure and death from an overdose.
It only takes about a week to get hooked on heroin. But once they’re hooked, they’re hooked. Their body is physically addicted to the drug. They have to have it every day, or else they’ll get sick - really sick. If they don’t use heroin, their body will go into withdrawals. And when it comes to helping the addict, there’s a good chance that they’re going to tell you that “you don’t understand what they go through or what it’s like to be sick”. And that’s why it’s important to know what it’s like to be sick from heroin and opiate withdrawal.
Withdrawal symptoms for heroin include:
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Heroin withdrawals can last for 4, 5, 6 days or more. Suffice it to say that heroin withdrawals are very painful and are just one of the main reasons why most addicts simply can’t quit heroin just like that. And the longer they’ve been addicted to heroin then the harder it is to quit. Heroin actually changes the brain, how the brain works, how they, act, behave, etc... Their brain has been programmed to seek the drug no matter what the costs may be. Many addicts end up lying, cheating and stealing for the drug in order to keep themselves from getting sick.
Furthermore sometimes, users become intimately attached to heroin as if it were their husband or their wife. Heroin becomes an immediate solution for all of their problems, no matter what the consequences may bring. It’s their only means of escape from reality and withdrawals, and they can’t let go just like that; unless of course they want to and you have a solution in place as well.
Furthermore sometimes, users become intimately attached to heroin as if it were their husband or their wife. Heroin becomes an immediate solution for all of their problems, no matter what the consequences may bring. It’s their only means of escape from reality and withdrawals, and they can’t let go just like that; unless of course they want to and you have a solution in place as well.
How to help them quit heroin:
If the addict has shown a desire to get clean or even the slightest sign of the possibility, then as fast as you can, get your information and resources together and present them to your friend or loved one. There are a few ways to quit heroin and the following are the most commonly used methods:
-Quitting heroin cold turkey with the help of OTC meds.
-Quitting heroin with the help of kratom
-Quitting heroin warm turkey with lesser evil pharmaceuticals.
-Quitting heroin with Methadone or Suboxone.
-Quitting heroin in a drug rehabilitation center (or detox center).
NOTE: Regardless of how they decide to quit, they may want to take some "Milk of Magnesia" 1 to 2 days before quitting heroin in order to relieve constipation and allow some bowel movements to occur. Milk of Magnesia, (magnesium hydroxide), is a milky-white liquid medicine that is used as a hydrating laxative and relieves constipation within six hours or less. And doing this before quitting heroin will reduce continual bowel movements during the process.
-Quitting heroin cold turkey with the help of OTC meds.
-Quitting heroin with the help of kratom
-Quitting heroin warm turkey with lesser evil pharmaceuticals.
-Quitting heroin with Methadone or Suboxone.
-Quitting heroin in a drug rehabilitation center (or detox center).
NOTE: Regardless of how they decide to quit, they may want to take some "Milk of Magnesia" 1 to 2 days before quitting heroin in order to relieve constipation and allow some bowel movements to occur. Milk of Magnesia, (magnesium hydroxide), is a milky-white liquid medicine that is used as a hydrating laxative and relieves constipation within six hours or less. And doing this before quitting heroin will reduce continual bowel movements during the process.
Quitting heroin cold turkey with OTC meds:
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Quitting heroin cold turkey with OTC meds: If the addict is low on funds, or is not able to get Suboxone or any other type of pain medication, and if they’re not able to get into rehab or a detox center as well, then quitting heroin cold turkey with the help of OTC meds may be their only way to quit. However, quitting heroin cold turkey becomes less painful with the help of OTC meds, (over the counter medication), such as Imodium, Tagamet, ZzzQuil, Valerian Root caps, GABA GAMMA caps.
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Imodium, which is available in most countries, contains Loperamide, and Loperamide is a very light opioid drug itself which can help to reduce heroin withdrawal symptoms when taken in high quantity dosages. An acid reducer such as Tagamet for example allows the liver to metabolize the Loperamide (opioid) in the Imodium. Grapefruit juice (not grape juice) can also be used to help absorb the Loperamine (opioid) from the Imodium. It’s not just the Imodium alone, (although many people have used it this way), it’s the combination of taking the Tagamet while taking the Imodium at high dosages that helps to reduce heroin withdrawals significantly. For example:
Day 1: The user can begin to take 400mg (2 tablets) of Tagamet, followed by 24mg (12 caplets) to 30mg (15 caplets) (or even less) of Imodium every 5 to 6 hours or 7 to 8 hours, or as needed, (and sometimes less) all washed down with a glass of grapefruit juice. (Some people may be able to get by with smaller dosages as well. i.e. 16mg to 18mg every 10 to 12 hours or so).
Day 2: The user can take 400mg of Tagamet followed by 20mg of Imodium, every 5 to 6 or 7 to 8 hours, or as needed, all washed down with a glass of grapefruit juice.
Day 3: The user can take 400mg of Tagamet followed by 18mg of Imodium, washed down with grapefruit juice. (Depending on how they feel, they can stay at 20mg, 24mg, 26mg or 30mg for the first 3 to 4 days or they can begin to taper down as well. That is entirely up to them.)
Day 4: The user can begin to lower their Imodium dosage by half: i.e. 10mg to 15mg of Imodium yet continue with 400mg of Tagamet in order to get the best results from the low 10mg to 15mg of Imodium.
After the first 3 to 4 days the worst is over and they can begin to decrease their Imodium intake even more until they're able to come off of the Imodium completely. And with the help of the other OTC meds such as ZzzQuil, Valerian Root capsules, GABA GAMMA and along with frequent hot baths throughout the day, quitting heroin cold turkey can become a lot easier and a lot more bearable as well.
For more information on how to quit heroin cold turkey please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Cold Turkey with OTC Meds” along with “How to Survive the First 7 Days” and try to get your loved one to read those articles as well. Help them to follow the instructions on the articles to as best as they can.
Day 1: The user can begin to take 400mg (2 tablets) of Tagamet, followed by 24mg (12 caplets) to 30mg (15 caplets) (or even less) of Imodium every 5 to 6 hours or 7 to 8 hours, or as needed, (and sometimes less) all washed down with a glass of grapefruit juice. (Some people may be able to get by with smaller dosages as well. i.e. 16mg to 18mg every 10 to 12 hours or so).
Day 2: The user can take 400mg of Tagamet followed by 20mg of Imodium, every 5 to 6 or 7 to 8 hours, or as needed, all washed down with a glass of grapefruit juice.
Day 3: The user can take 400mg of Tagamet followed by 18mg of Imodium, washed down with grapefruit juice. (Depending on how they feel, they can stay at 20mg, 24mg, 26mg or 30mg for the first 3 to 4 days or they can begin to taper down as well. That is entirely up to them.)
Day 4: The user can begin to lower their Imodium dosage by half: i.e. 10mg to 15mg of Imodium yet continue with 400mg of Tagamet in order to get the best results from the low 10mg to 15mg of Imodium.
After the first 3 to 4 days the worst is over and they can begin to decrease their Imodium intake even more until they're able to come off of the Imodium completely. And with the help of the other OTC meds such as ZzzQuil, Valerian Root capsules, GABA GAMMA and along with frequent hot baths throughout the day, quitting heroin cold turkey can become a lot easier and a lot more bearable as well.
For more information on how to quit heroin cold turkey please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Cold Turkey with OTC Meds” along with “How to Survive the First 7 Days” and try to get your loved one to read those articles as well. Help them to follow the instructions on the articles to as best as they can.
Quitting heroin with the help of Kratom:
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You can even talk to your loved one about Quitting Heroin with Kratom, which is an all natural means of reducing heroin and opiate withdrawals significantly.
Kratom is a leaf of a tree which is used as an alternative and natural means of treatment for many conditions such as chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and most importantly, heroin and opiate withdrawals. Kratom has also been used for methadone dependence detox in New Zealand as well. |
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Kratom (botanical name Mitragyna Speciosa) consists of over 25 alkaloids (chemical compounds), one of which is called Mitragynine. Mitragynine is an opioid agonist, which means that it has an attraction towards the opioid receptors in the brain. When in withdrawal, Mitragynine binds to these receptors and is able to reduce heroin and opiate withdrawal symptoms.
Kratom is not an opioid. It is not a drug. It is a natural leaf which is sold in the US, UK, Canada, and in other countries for many different purposes, including heroin and opiate withdrawal. It is sold in the form of leaves, crushed leaves and in fine herbal powder as well. (Fine Kratom powder is preferred). Once a person consumes kratom (by mixing it with juice and drinking it, or drinking it as a tea), heroin withdrawals are reduced greatly within 20 to 30 minutes.
A person only needs to take kratom 4 times per day for the first 3 days and then begin to reduce their intake of Kratom for Day 4, 5 and 6. After that, that’s it. They’re done. They’ve just quit heroin with an all natural plant. And then from there it’s just a matter of time and recovery and rebuilding their health.
Kratom is not an opioid. It is not a drug. It is a natural leaf which is sold in the US, UK, Canada, and in other countries for many different purposes, including heroin and opiate withdrawal. It is sold in the form of leaves, crushed leaves and in fine herbal powder as well. (Fine Kratom powder is preferred). Once a person consumes kratom (by mixing it with juice and drinking it, or drinking it as a tea), heroin withdrawals are reduced greatly within 20 to 30 minutes.
A person only needs to take kratom 4 times per day for the first 3 days and then begin to reduce their intake of Kratom for Day 4, 5 and 6. After that, that’s it. They’re done. They’ve just quit heroin with an all natural plant. And then from there it’s just a matter of time and recovery and rebuilding their health.
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For more information on quitting heroin with kratom and more please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin with Kratom”.
Quitting heroin warm turkey w/pharmacy drugs:
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Quitting heroin warm turkey with lesser evil pharmaceuticals can become another solution for them as well. If you or they are able to obtain pharmaceutical medications such as Valiums or Xanax for anxiety and/or Tramadol or Vicodins for pain, then quitting heroin with such meds can become a lot less painful in this manner as well.
Most pain medications are opioid based which allow the addict to go through less discomfort while withdrawing from heroin. |
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When quitting heroin warm turkey with Valiums, (or Xanax) and/or Tramadol the addict would stop taking heroin then take 1 10mg Valium, (or 1 1.0mg Xanax) and/or 1 25mg Tramadol in the morning and later on in evening as needed, just to get by, and not to get high.
Then they could relax in the bath tub filled with hot hot water and allow time for the drugs to take effect. (20-30 minutes) (NOTE: Some addicts may need a higher dosage of Tramadol in order to feel any kind of relief.)
The goal here is not to get high and comfortable but instead to minimize withdrawals and maintain sanity. Taking these pharmaceutical drugs at low dosages may be just enough to keep anxiety, cramps, nausea, and diarrhea on hold, especially during the first 3 to 4 days of withdrawals. However, it would be best not to use any of these medications in excess and/or for no more than 5 to 6 days, as Valiums, Xanax and Tramadol are all also addictive drugs. It would be best for the addict to use them only as a crutch to get off of the heroin for the first 4 to 5 days and then start tapering down from these drugs there after.
For more detailed information on how to quit heroin warm turkey please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds” and try to get your friend or loved one to read the article as well.
Then they could relax in the bath tub filled with hot hot water and allow time for the drugs to take effect. (20-30 minutes) (NOTE: Some addicts may need a higher dosage of Tramadol in order to feel any kind of relief.)
The goal here is not to get high and comfortable but instead to minimize withdrawals and maintain sanity. Taking these pharmaceutical drugs at low dosages may be just enough to keep anxiety, cramps, nausea, and diarrhea on hold, especially during the first 3 to 4 days of withdrawals. However, it would be best not to use any of these medications in excess and/or for no more than 5 to 6 days, as Valiums, Xanax and Tramadol are all also addictive drugs. It would be best for the addict to use them only as a crutch to get off of the heroin for the first 4 to 5 days and then start tapering down from these drugs there after.
For more detailed information on how to quit heroin warm turkey please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds” and try to get your friend or loved one to read the article as well.
Quitting heroin with Methadone or Suboxone:
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Quitting heroin with Methadone or Suboxone is another solution. Suboxone is a semi-synthetic opioid medication which is used to help addicts quit heroin and other opiate drugs and comes in the form of tablets or film strips.
The user must first wait anywhere from 12 to 24 hours or more from their last use of heroin before taking that first suboxone, (as taking suboxone too soon can cause the user to go into precipitated withdrawal). Then he or she places the Suboxone under their tongue and it dissolves and is delivered to the brain through the blood stream. |
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The Suboxone will then kick out any remaining heroin from the opioid receptors in the brain and then attach itself to those same receptors relieving most or all of the withdrawals symptoms while blocking the receptors from receiving any heroin. In other words, when a person is on suboxone they are not able to feel the effects of the heroin if they attempt to use the drug. If a person tries to use heroin while on Suboxone they will not get high. A person can stay on suboxone from anywhere from 3 to 40 days or less. And all it really takes is 2 to 3 suboxone pills or film strips in order to help them get through the first few days. And then the rest is just a matter of time and recovery.
For more information on Suboxone, how to quit heroin with Suboxone, and how and where to obtain Suboxone, please read my article, “Quitting Heroin with Suboxone”.
Methadone is a full opioid agonist which relieves all withdrawal symptoms and cravings as well. Methadone is much stronger than Suboxone and is much more effective for an immediate solution. Furthermore, the transition from heroin to methadone is smooth and easy. Methadone is mostly obtained from clinics and is dispensed in the form of liquid juice. The user goes to the clinic every morning, gets their dose and goes on their way and is able to live, work and function in a normal manner. (Doctors can also prescribe methadone as well in the form of pills.) However, Methadone is much more addictive than heroin, and if a person is going to get on methadone then they would be much better off to get on and get off of the methadone as quickly as possible, meaning within the first few weeks or less. Some addicts however may need to stay on methadone for a little while longer as well.
For more information on quitting heroin with methadone, please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds”.
For more information on Suboxone, how to quit heroin with Suboxone, and how and where to obtain Suboxone, please read my article, “Quitting Heroin with Suboxone”.
Methadone is a full opioid agonist which relieves all withdrawal symptoms and cravings as well. Methadone is much stronger than Suboxone and is much more effective for an immediate solution. Furthermore, the transition from heroin to methadone is smooth and easy. Methadone is mostly obtained from clinics and is dispensed in the form of liquid juice. The user goes to the clinic every morning, gets their dose and goes on their way and is able to live, work and function in a normal manner. (Doctors can also prescribe methadone as well in the form of pills.) However, Methadone is much more addictive than heroin, and if a person is going to get on methadone then they would be much better off to get on and get off of the methadone as quickly as possible, meaning within the first few weeks or less. Some addicts however may need to stay on methadone for a little while longer as well.
For more information on quitting heroin with methadone, please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds”.
Quitting heroin in a drug rehab treatment center:
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Quitting Heroin in a Drug Treatment Rehabilitation Center is another solution for getting clean. If the addict has insurance or sufficient funds available then they may be able to admit themselves into a drug rehabilitation center where they’ll be far away from the drugs, the drug dealers, the drug friends and the drug environment as well. In rehab, they’ll have plenty of time to get clean and recover. They’ll learn the tools and coping skills they’ll need to help keep them on the right path and make it on the outside world.
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And if they don’t have any money or insurance for professional rehab, there may still be some other options as well. i.e. drug rehabilitation centers funded by the local state or government, and/or government funded insurance that will cover the costs of rehab. However, if rehab is not a feasible option then they may want to consider quitting heroin in a medically, supervised drug detox center.
Quitting Heroin in a medically supervised detox center is safe, quick and effective, and can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days long. And during the detox they may use medications such as Clonidine for example, which is a non-opiate medication that helps to reduce cold chills, sweats, restlessness and anxiety as well.
Quitting Heroin in a medically supervised detox center is safe, quick and effective, and can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days long. And during the detox they may use medications such as Clonidine for example, which is a non-opiate medication that helps to reduce cold chills, sweats, restlessness and anxiety as well.
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Some detox centers may also use Suboxone for the first 3 to 4 days of detox.
However, by going to a detox center the addict won’t have to worry about taking Suboxone, Methadone, or any of those drugs after the detox. And once they’re done, they’re done, that’s it. No more drugs. And they can leave there without the need of any more drugs as well. And quitting heroin in a detox center can be as easy as finding a detox center near you and then just bringing them there to be detoxed from heroin. |
For more information on quitting heroin in a drug rehab or Detox Center, please read my article, “How to Quit Heroin in Rehab”.
Get help finding a drug rehab center. Call: 1.855.970.2547
Call 1.855.970.2547, 24/7 to speak to a treatment specialist for free. Get help finding the best treatment options available for yourself or a loved one. Rehab centers, detox centers, inpatient, outpatient programs, therapy, counseling, sober living housing and more. A 5 minute phone call is all it takes to get you the help you need. Get help now. Call: 1.855.970.2547
To find a free to low cost detox or rehab center, or Suboxone clinic, methadone clinic, (or methadone clinic that offers Suboxone), contact your national drug addiction helpline and ask them to help you find a detox, rehab or clinic near you.
United States: Call 1-800-662-4357 If you’re here in the U.S. then you can call SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse Administration office at 1-800-662-4357 and ask them to recommend a state funded (free) to low cost, detox or rehab center, suboxone or methadone clinic in your city, state or out of state as well.
Canada: If you’re living in Canada, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your province in Canada.
United Kingdom: If you’re living in the UK, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your region or nation in the UK.
Ireland: If you’re living in Ireland, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your county or province in Ireland.
India: If you’re living in India, then click here for a list of drug treatment de-addiction centres and services for your city in India.
Australia: If you’re living in Australia, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your state or territory in Australia.
New Zealand: If you’re living in New Zealand, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your town, city or district in New Zealand.
Most countries offer free (state, government funded) to low cost, detox and rehab programs, Suboxone and methadone treatment for their residents. And/or they may qualify for free, (government funded) financial assistance. If they have insurance, then have them check with their insurance provider for recommended treatment programs and possible out of area treatment programs as well. Get the phone numbers and call the programs first. Get details, costs and procedures and then present your solution(s) to your loved ones in a kind and loving manner. And if at all possible, print out the most pertinent pages from my website and present them to them as well.
NOTE: If any of the more easier options are feasible such as quitting in a detox center, in a rehab center, or with Suboxone, then be ready to take action right away before they change their mind and back out.
NOTE: For best results, all of these plans and solutions should be accompanied with and followed by some type of counseling.
United States: Call 1-800-662-4357 If you’re here in the U.S. then you can call SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse Administration office at 1-800-662-4357 and ask them to recommend a state funded (free) to low cost, detox or rehab center, suboxone or methadone clinic in your city, state or out of state as well.
Canada: If you’re living in Canada, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your province in Canada.
United Kingdom: If you’re living in the UK, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your region or nation in the UK.
Ireland: If you’re living in Ireland, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your county or province in Ireland.
India: If you’re living in India, then click here for a list of drug treatment de-addiction centres and services for your city in India.
Australia: If you’re living in Australia, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your state or territory in Australia.
New Zealand: If you’re living in New Zealand, then click here for a list of drug treatment referral services and treatment services for your town, city or district in New Zealand.
Most countries offer free (state, government funded) to low cost, detox and rehab programs, Suboxone and methadone treatment for their residents. And/or they may qualify for free, (government funded) financial assistance. If they have insurance, then have them check with their insurance provider for recommended treatment programs and possible out of area treatment programs as well. Get the phone numbers and call the programs first. Get details, costs and procedures and then present your solution(s) to your loved ones in a kind and loving manner. And if at all possible, print out the most pertinent pages from my website and present them to them as well.
NOTE: If any of the more easier options are feasible such as quitting in a detox center, in a rehab center, or with Suboxone, then be ready to take action right away before they change their mind and back out.
NOTE: For best results, all of these plans and solutions should be accompanied with and followed by some type of counseling.
Present the solution:
Before presenting their options for quitting, it’s important to try your best to become as calm, gentle and as peaceful as possible. Yelling, screaming and swearing is wrong and will only make matters worse. Try not to think about whatever wrong they’ve done to you, if they’ve done any wrong to you at all. Instead, try to block out those thoughts and memories out of your mind as best as you can and think on the positives. This is the only way that you’re going to be able to come to them in a kind and loving manner.
Try to remember them for what they used to be before the drugs and what they can become once the drugs are out of the picture. Try to remember the good things about that person and then try to bring that person back. Just because they're messed up right now doesn't mean that they cant change; because believe it or not, they can, if they want to. Furthermore, it’s important to note that we can’t really help anyone to change if we’re not living right ourselves. We can’t just talk the talk; we have to walk the walk in our own lives as well. We have to set the example for them to follow. And as long as we’re doing so and and dealing with them in a kind and loving manner, then maybe, just maybe, we may be able to help them.
NOTE: It’s also important to approach them at just the right time as well. Don’t approach them when they’re high, as anything you say to them will be dismissed and forgotten within a matter of minutes. Don’t approach them when they’re sick, or haven’t had their fix yet, as that's when they're more likely to become agitated and storm out of your presence in a hurry. Instead, try to catch them and speak to them when they are calm, normal, coherent and able to think, listen, and speak clearly, (for example: a couple of hours after they’ve had their first bag of the day).
Get all of your information together, nice and neat like a business presentation and then go to them, approach them in a kind and peaceful manner. Let them know that you really want to help them as much as you can, if they let you.
Try to remember them for what they used to be before the drugs and what they can become once the drugs are out of the picture. Try to remember the good things about that person and then try to bring that person back. Just because they're messed up right now doesn't mean that they cant change; because believe it or not, they can, if they want to. Furthermore, it’s important to note that we can’t really help anyone to change if we’re not living right ourselves. We can’t just talk the talk; we have to walk the walk in our own lives as well. We have to set the example for them to follow. And as long as we’re doing so and and dealing with them in a kind and loving manner, then maybe, just maybe, we may be able to help them.
NOTE: It’s also important to approach them at just the right time as well. Don’t approach them when they’re high, as anything you say to them will be dismissed and forgotten within a matter of minutes. Don’t approach them when they’re sick, or haven’t had their fix yet, as that's when they're more likely to become agitated and storm out of your presence in a hurry. Instead, try to catch them and speak to them when they are calm, normal, coherent and able to think, listen, and speak clearly, (for example: a couple of hours after they’ve had their first bag of the day).
Get all of your information together, nice and neat like a business presentation and then go to them, approach them in a kind and peaceful manner. Let them know that you really want to help them as much as you can, if they let you.
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Let them know that you know what they’re going through and that you have a few solutions as well. Then show them their options for quitting. Explain it to them in a step-by-step manner and go through each of these options one by one.
-Quitting Heroin Cold Turkey with OTC meds. -Quitting Heroin Cold Turkey with kratom. -Quitting Heroin Warm Turkey with pharmaceuticals. -Quitting Heroin with Methadone or Suboxone. -Quitting Heroin in a Drug Rehab Center or a Detox Center |
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Explain these options to them in detail one by one just as described above and on my website. You can show them the articles, show them my website, print it out for them and read it to them from my website as well.
Then as kindly and as lovingly as possible, ask them, “so how do you want to do this?”
Then be quiet and let them talk.
If they already came clean to you and asked you for help then they shouldn’t put up that much resistance. They may not be excited about quitting heroin for good, but they may be sick of it all enough to want to put this drug behind them once and for all.
Even if they really want to quit, there’s a good chance that there’s going to be some hesitance in the beginning, (and maybe, even a relapse as well). But as long as there's a desire and a need to quit, then they can quit this drug and stay clean for good. If they really want it, then they can do it. But they have to want it as well. And all you have to do is be there for them and help them in any way that you can.
If you’re sitting with them and you have your cell phone with you then you can call the number for the detox or rehab center for them and talk to one of their representatives yourself. And then hand over the phone to your friend or loved one and let the representatives handle the rest.
You can also try talking to them and convincing them, in a kind and gentle manner, by showing them what this drug is doing to them and to their lives, and to the lives of their loved ones as well, yet without accusing or judging them. Then talk to them about how nice it’s going to be not having to worry about getting sick or going into withdrawal ever again; and how nice it’s going to be to feel their normal body once again. Paint them a picture of a life without heroin. Let them see how nice it’s going to be for them to be free from this drug, once and for all – free to do and become whatever they want to be.
Money is also a motivator. Tell them how stress-free their life will become when they won’t have to worry about getting and spending money to buy heroin. Show them how much money they’ll save from not having to buy any more dope and all the good things they’ll be able to do with that money instead. Show them all the positive aspects about quitting this drug and staying clean for good.
Repeat your plans/solutions for quitting heroin and then tell them, “let’s do this and get it over with so that you can be free, once and for all”. (Their main concern will be getting sick and dealing with withdrawals and this is why you have to have a plan in place.)
If they say yes, then get on it right away. Move them along as quickly as possible, (before they change their minds).
If they’re going to do it cold turkey then get the OTC meds and let them do it cold turkey. And you can help them by preparing their hot baths, taking them out for long or even short fast walks. And you can read my articles “How to Quit Heroin Cold Turkey” followed by “How to Survive the First 7 Days” and do it with them, right by their side.
Give them the OTC meds, herbal supplements, water, pills, etc. Write everything down on paper - the time when they take the meds, how much they took, etc… Once they have the OTC meds in their system then they may begin to feel a little better. And always be encouraging them, telling them to “hang in there,… you can do this”. Take them out for walks; fill up the tub with hot, hot water and let them soak for a while. Hot baths will bring them instant relief.
If they’re going to do it warm turkey then make arrangements to get the pharmaceutical drugs they need and let them do it warm turkey. Give them their meds as needed and when needed. (Write all of this stuff down on paper to keep track of their dosing, time, etc.) And they may still need to go out for walks and take hot baths as well. Help them to follow the instructions for quitting heroin warm turkey which can be found on my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds”.
If they’re going to do it with Suboxone then make arrangements to get the Suboxone and let them do it with Suboxone, (or Subutex). Make sure they take their Suboxone (or Subutex) medication every day, (under their tongue) for as long as their taper and use plan requires them to do so while reducing their intake of Suboxone every 3 to 4 days as well. You can find Suboxone taper and use plans on my article, “Quitting Heroin with Suboxone”. And all you have to do is help them to follow the taper plan of their choice. (NOTE: The shorter the taper plan, the better.)
If they’re going to do it in rehab, then make the arrangements and take them to rehab as quickly as possible, before they change their mind.
If they’re going to do it in a medically supervised detox center then take them to the detox center right away before they get scared and back out.
You’re more likely to succeed in helping them by giving them a choice; i.e., “you can quit this way, this way, this way or that way, but of course, that’s up to you, and you’re free to quit whichever way you want”..(and of course, whichever way is feasible and affordable as well).
Get a commitment from them and then take action right away and move them along as quickly as possible. Don’t accept excuses. Get started right away! Try to keep the momentum going. If all goes well, then as scared as they may be, they may be willing to go ahead as planned seeing this as an opportunity to end the drug addiction once and for all.
The main thing is to continue to remain positive at all times in order to help keep them in a positive state of mind. Then continue to help them while showing them nothing but love and kindness - brotherly love. And always remember to speak to them in a calm and gentle manner. All you have to do is be there for them, help them quit heroin, stay clean and turn their life around. And in doing so, you just might save their life. You do your part, and then the rest is up to them. But again, they have to want it just as well.
NOTE: As stated above; for best results, all of these plans and solutions should be accompanied with and followed by some type of counseling as well.
Then as kindly and as lovingly as possible, ask them, “so how do you want to do this?”
Then be quiet and let them talk.
If they already came clean to you and asked you for help then they shouldn’t put up that much resistance. They may not be excited about quitting heroin for good, but they may be sick of it all enough to want to put this drug behind them once and for all.
Even if they really want to quit, there’s a good chance that there’s going to be some hesitance in the beginning, (and maybe, even a relapse as well). But as long as there's a desire and a need to quit, then they can quit this drug and stay clean for good. If they really want it, then they can do it. But they have to want it as well. And all you have to do is be there for them and help them in any way that you can.
If you’re sitting with them and you have your cell phone with you then you can call the number for the detox or rehab center for them and talk to one of their representatives yourself. And then hand over the phone to your friend or loved one and let the representatives handle the rest.
You can also try talking to them and convincing them, in a kind and gentle manner, by showing them what this drug is doing to them and to their lives, and to the lives of their loved ones as well, yet without accusing or judging them. Then talk to them about how nice it’s going to be not having to worry about getting sick or going into withdrawal ever again; and how nice it’s going to be to feel their normal body once again. Paint them a picture of a life without heroin. Let them see how nice it’s going to be for them to be free from this drug, once and for all – free to do and become whatever they want to be.
Money is also a motivator. Tell them how stress-free their life will become when they won’t have to worry about getting and spending money to buy heroin. Show them how much money they’ll save from not having to buy any more dope and all the good things they’ll be able to do with that money instead. Show them all the positive aspects about quitting this drug and staying clean for good.
Repeat your plans/solutions for quitting heroin and then tell them, “let’s do this and get it over with so that you can be free, once and for all”. (Their main concern will be getting sick and dealing with withdrawals and this is why you have to have a plan in place.)
If they say yes, then get on it right away. Move them along as quickly as possible, (before they change their minds).
If they’re going to do it cold turkey then get the OTC meds and let them do it cold turkey. And you can help them by preparing their hot baths, taking them out for long or even short fast walks. And you can read my articles “How to Quit Heroin Cold Turkey” followed by “How to Survive the First 7 Days” and do it with them, right by their side.
Give them the OTC meds, herbal supplements, water, pills, etc. Write everything down on paper - the time when they take the meds, how much they took, etc… Once they have the OTC meds in their system then they may begin to feel a little better. And always be encouraging them, telling them to “hang in there,… you can do this”. Take them out for walks; fill up the tub with hot, hot water and let them soak for a while. Hot baths will bring them instant relief.
If they’re going to do it warm turkey then make arrangements to get the pharmaceutical drugs they need and let them do it warm turkey. Give them their meds as needed and when needed. (Write all of this stuff down on paper to keep track of their dosing, time, etc.) And they may still need to go out for walks and take hot baths as well. Help them to follow the instructions for quitting heroin warm turkey which can be found on my article, “How to Quit Heroin Warm Turkey with Meds”.
If they’re going to do it with Suboxone then make arrangements to get the Suboxone and let them do it with Suboxone, (or Subutex). Make sure they take their Suboxone (or Subutex) medication every day, (under their tongue) for as long as their taper and use plan requires them to do so while reducing their intake of Suboxone every 3 to 4 days as well. You can find Suboxone taper and use plans on my article, “Quitting Heroin with Suboxone”. And all you have to do is help them to follow the taper plan of their choice. (NOTE: The shorter the taper plan, the better.)
If they’re going to do it in rehab, then make the arrangements and take them to rehab as quickly as possible, before they change their mind.
If they’re going to do it in a medically supervised detox center then take them to the detox center right away before they get scared and back out.
You’re more likely to succeed in helping them by giving them a choice; i.e., “you can quit this way, this way, this way or that way, but of course, that’s up to you, and you’re free to quit whichever way you want”..(and of course, whichever way is feasible and affordable as well).
Get a commitment from them and then take action right away and move them along as quickly as possible. Don’t accept excuses. Get started right away! Try to keep the momentum going. If all goes well, then as scared as they may be, they may be willing to go ahead as planned seeing this as an opportunity to end the drug addiction once and for all.
The main thing is to continue to remain positive at all times in order to help keep them in a positive state of mind. Then continue to help them while showing them nothing but love and kindness - brotherly love. And always remember to speak to them in a calm and gentle manner. All you have to do is be there for them, help them quit heroin, stay clean and turn their life around. And in doing so, you just might save their life. You do your part, and then the rest is up to them. But again, they have to want it just as well.
NOTE: As stated above; for best results, all of these plans and solutions should be accompanied with and followed by some type of counseling as well.
What to do if they remain in denial:
Sometimes, the addict may deny that there’s a problem and remain in denial as well. And it can become very difficult to help a person who’s in constant denial. And if they’re in denial and continue to remain in denial then there’s not much that you can do. You can’t force them to confess; not many people will. Denial is a defense mechanism which often involves lying and refusing to talk to anyone about the problem. Furthermore, some addicts will not allow anything to get in the way between them and their heroin. They may even go into a rage when confronted with the problem.
Suffice it to say that denial can become frustrating to deal with as it is usually more than obvious that the addict is living a lie and refuses to seek or accept help. They may even try to blame their drug use on you, others, or members of their family as part of the denial process. They may try to make you look like the bad guy while making themselves look like the victim. They may say negative things about you and others in order to feel better about themselves. But in order for the addict to get any kind of help at all, they will have to come out of denial and come clean about their addiction, or at least admit that there is a problem.
NOTE: It is possible that when approaching and talking to your loved one in a kind and loving manner and asking them to please be honest with you, (as kindly and as lovingly as possible), that they may actually humble themselves and come clean and tell you the truth. And this approach is definitely worth a try. It may work.
However, if they continue to remain in denial then there must be consequences, otherwise, nothing will change. And you will need to be prepared to enforce those consequences out of love for the addict and out of self-preservation as well.
You can always ask them to take a home drug test right in front of you to prove to you that they are clean indeed. And if they are clean then they will be more than happy to do so. But if they’re not clean, then they may become defensive and make up excuses to avoid taking the drug test. (NOTE: The drug test should be a “surprise drug test” and a supervised drug test as well. You can purchase a home drug test kit for opiates at Walmart or at your local pharmacy).
If the addict refuses to quit or remains in denial then there’s only one thing left to do:
Suffice it to say that denial can become frustrating to deal with as it is usually more than obvious that the addict is living a lie and refuses to seek or accept help. They may even try to blame their drug use on you, others, or members of their family as part of the denial process. They may try to make you look like the bad guy while making themselves look like the victim. They may say negative things about you and others in order to feel better about themselves. But in order for the addict to get any kind of help at all, they will have to come out of denial and come clean about their addiction, or at least admit that there is a problem.
NOTE: It is possible that when approaching and talking to your loved one in a kind and loving manner and asking them to please be honest with you, (as kindly and as lovingly as possible), that they may actually humble themselves and come clean and tell you the truth. And this approach is definitely worth a try. It may work.
However, if they continue to remain in denial then there must be consequences, otherwise, nothing will change. And you will need to be prepared to enforce those consequences out of love for the addict and out of self-preservation as well.
You can always ask them to take a home drug test right in front of you to prove to you that they are clean indeed. And if they are clean then they will be more than happy to do so. But if they’re not clean, then they may become defensive and make up excuses to avoid taking the drug test. (NOTE: The drug test should be a “surprise drug test” and a supervised drug test as well. You can purchase a home drug test kit for opiates at Walmart or at your local pharmacy).
If the addict refuses to quit or remains in denial then there’s only one thing left to do:
Give them a choice:
You can’t force them to quit heroin but you can force them to make a choice. If the addict simply doesn’t want to quit heroin or continues to remain in denial then the only thing left to do is to give them a choice:
Heroin, or their relationship with you.
Heroin, or their friendship with you.
Heroin, or the family.
Quit heroin, or leave the home.
If the addict doesn’t want to quit, then unfortunately, this is the only thing left to do that will cause the situation to change in one form or another. Because most addicts won’t even consider quitting heroin until they begin to lose the ones they love or until they hit rock bottom. And as long as the addict has a roof over their head then the chances of them quitting heroin are slim to none - unless of course, they’re given a choice between heroin or you, or they simply want to quit and are willing to accept your offer for help.
If they want to quit then help them; but if not, then it’s time to pull back until they’re ready to quit heroin and stay clean for good. And unfortunately, most addicts won’t quit heroin until they themselves have had enough chaos in their life and are finally ready to quit. And sadly, some addicts may have to lose it all before they can begin to change. Because unfortunately, most people don’t change until they lose it all.
Heroin addicts with access to money, a place to live, and people who continue to put up with their drug addiction will rarely seek help. To them, they “don't have a problem” and see no need for change. But once the pressure’s on then they have to make a choice - heroin or you. Keep using heroin or stop the madness and change. And you can help to make that happen. You can help them to make a decision to change. The ultimate decision is up to them. But you can push them into making that decision; otherwise, nothing will change, and most likely, they will continue to use and it will only get worse as time goes on.
However, it’s also important to note that if the person you’re trying to help has been cooperative for the most part and has remained calm and respectable as well, then you may want to consider giving them sometime before making a final decision, (i.e. a few hours for example). And in the mean time, don’t enable them in any way, shape or form, (i.e. don’t give them any money for anything).
How you handle the matter is entirely up to you and can also depend on the relationship level and on the individuals’ behavior as well. Every situation is different, and you’ll have to decide what would be best for yours according to the relationship you have with the addict. And if they do quit or at least put forth the effort to try, then it’s also important to note that most heroin addicts may relapse several times no matter how hard they try. I’m not making excuses for addicts, and yes, some people can quit heroin and stay clean for good on their first time around. But when it comes to heroin, this drug is the hardest drug to quit. But it doesn’t mean that you have to keep accepting relapse as well.
You can give them 3 chances for example, as long as they’re really trying, (and even that may be too many as well). For instance - the strike 3 rule: strike 1, strike 2, strike 3 you’re out. 3 failed attempts or 3 failed drug tests and the relationship is over, (until of course, they’re able to quit this drug and stay clean for good). And if they do get clean then during this time you can drug test them as often as you can to make sure they’re still clean; because a home drug test kit for opiates is the only way to know for sure.
But if they simply don’t want to quit then their only hope may be “detachment”, where you tell your friend or loved one; “I love you, and I really hope you’ll quit using heroin. I’m willing to do whatever I can to help you quit this drug and stay clean for good. But you need to decide once and for all, which relationship is more important to you.
Is it your relationship with heroin or your relationship with me?
Is it your relationship with heroin or your relationship with your family?
Because they can’t have both. Otherwise, nothing will change. And it will only get worse as time goes on.
If they choose you, the family, then great! Wonderful! Help them! But if they choose heroin then let them go and go on your way. Give them the help phone number(s) from your resource list and then go on your way. And in the mean time, the only time that they should be contacting you is when they want to try again. And as long as they’re trying, (genuinely trying), then we keep on helping. But until then, we must pull back. Otherwise, nothing will change.
“Detachment” or what they call tough love is a last resort.
Detachment is when you cut the relationship off until they reach out for help and begin to put forth an effort to change. But detachment is when you actually do it, and not just threaten to do so. Too many people just threaten to do it, but they never actually do it. And that’s one of the main reasons why nothing ever changes, is because the addict is never given a choice. So if you’re going to give them a choice then make sure you follow through, and do it. Otherwise, nothing will change. And if it does come down to that point to where they continue to use heroin over you then you can print out every page on this website (except for this one) and hand it to them or mail it to them as well.
Detachment may seem harsh, and it is, but it just might be their only hope left, and you just might very well save their life in the process. And again, it’s only temporary until they humble themselves and reach out for help. It's either that, (give them a choice) or watch them ruin their life and quite possibly ruin your life in the process as well. Detachment is again, a last resort. But until then, try to do everything you can to avoid getting to that point.
Try to help them in every way you can before deciding to cut the relationship off, if that's what you're going to do. And in the mean time, try to do and say everything in a kind and loving manner. Do your best to show them nothing but love, kindness and compassion because it’s the right thing to do. And by showing them such kindness you just might touch their heart. And in order to feel compassion for them, we have to try to bring ourselves to feel sorry for them, knowing that if they don’t change soon then most likely, they’re going to live a life of misery. Therefore, do whatever it takes to influence them in a positive manner in order to inspire and motivate them to take action, stay clean and turn their life around.
Heroin destroys lives and tears families and friendships apart. And if you want to save your loved one from this evil drug then you're going to have to do whatever it takes to help them get clean and stay clean for good. They're going to need all the help that they can get from you, family members and drug-free friends.
And it’s not just the drugs that you have to worry about, it’s the drug dealers and his drug-using friends as well. Encourage them to erase their dealers' and drug using friends’ phone number(s) from their cell phone. And if necessary, encourage them to change their cell phone number as well. Do whatever it takes to keep the drug dealers and drug users away. Make it as difficult as possible for them to buy and use heroin. And in doing so, you just might save their life.
Heroin, or their relationship with you.
Heroin, or their friendship with you.
Heroin, or the family.
Quit heroin, or leave the home.
If the addict doesn’t want to quit, then unfortunately, this is the only thing left to do that will cause the situation to change in one form or another. Because most addicts won’t even consider quitting heroin until they begin to lose the ones they love or until they hit rock bottom. And as long as the addict has a roof over their head then the chances of them quitting heroin are slim to none - unless of course, they’re given a choice between heroin or you, or they simply want to quit and are willing to accept your offer for help.
If they want to quit then help them; but if not, then it’s time to pull back until they’re ready to quit heroin and stay clean for good. And unfortunately, most addicts won’t quit heroin until they themselves have had enough chaos in their life and are finally ready to quit. And sadly, some addicts may have to lose it all before they can begin to change. Because unfortunately, most people don’t change until they lose it all.
Heroin addicts with access to money, a place to live, and people who continue to put up with their drug addiction will rarely seek help. To them, they “don't have a problem” and see no need for change. But once the pressure’s on then they have to make a choice - heroin or you. Keep using heroin or stop the madness and change. And you can help to make that happen. You can help them to make a decision to change. The ultimate decision is up to them. But you can push them into making that decision; otherwise, nothing will change, and most likely, they will continue to use and it will only get worse as time goes on.
However, it’s also important to note that if the person you’re trying to help has been cooperative for the most part and has remained calm and respectable as well, then you may want to consider giving them sometime before making a final decision, (i.e. a few hours for example). And in the mean time, don’t enable them in any way, shape or form, (i.e. don’t give them any money for anything).
How you handle the matter is entirely up to you and can also depend on the relationship level and on the individuals’ behavior as well. Every situation is different, and you’ll have to decide what would be best for yours according to the relationship you have with the addict. And if they do quit or at least put forth the effort to try, then it’s also important to note that most heroin addicts may relapse several times no matter how hard they try. I’m not making excuses for addicts, and yes, some people can quit heroin and stay clean for good on their first time around. But when it comes to heroin, this drug is the hardest drug to quit. But it doesn’t mean that you have to keep accepting relapse as well.
You can give them 3 chances for example, as long as they’re really trying, (and even that may be too many as well). For instance - the strike 3 rule: strike 1, strike 2, strike 3 you’re out. 3 failed attempts or 3 failed drug tests and the relationship is over, (until of course, they’re able to quit this drug and stay clean for good). And if they do get clean then during this time you can drug test them as often as you can to make sure they’re still clean; because a home drug test kit for opiates is the only way to know for sure.
But if they simply don’t want to quit then their only hope may be “detachment”, where you tell your friend or loved one; “I love you, and I really hope you’ll quit using heroin. I’m willing to do whatever I can to help you quit this drug and stay clean for good. But you need to decide once and for all, which relationship is more important to you.
Is it your relationship with heroin or your relationship with me?
Is it your relationship with heroin or your relationship with your family?
Because they can’t have both. Otherwise, nothing will change. And it will only get worse as time goes on.
If they choose you, the family, then great! Wonderful! Help them! But if they choose heroin then let them go and go on your way. Give them the help phone number(s) from your resource list and then go on your way. And in the mean time, the only time that they should be contacting you is when they want to try again. And as long as they’re trying, (genuinely trying), then we keep on helping. But until then, we must pull back. Otherwise, nothing will change.
“Detachment” or what they call tough love is a last resort.
Detachment is when you cut the relationship off until they reach out for help and begin to put forth an effort to change. But detachment is when you actually do it, and not just threaten to do so. Too many people just threaten to do it, but they never actually do it. And that’s one of the main reasons why nothing ever changes, is because the addict is never given a choice. So if you’re going to give them a choice then make sure you follow through, and do it. Otherwise, nothing will change. And if it does come down to that point to where they continue to use heroin over you then you can print out every page on this website (except for this one) and hand it to them or mail it to them as well.
Detachment may seem harsh, and it is, but it just might be their only hope left, and you just might very well save their life in the process. And again, it’s only temporary until they humble themselves and reach out for help. It's either that, (give them a choice) or watch them ruin their life and quite possibly ruin your life in the process as well. Detachment is again, a last resort. But until then, try to do everything you can to avoid getting to that point.
Try to help them in every way you can before deciding to cut the relationship off, if that's what you're going to do. And in the mean time, try to do and say everything in a kind and loving manner. Do your best to show them nothing but love, kindness and compassion because it’s the right thing to do. And by showing them such kindness you just might touch their heart. And in order to feel compassion for them, we have to try to bring ourselves to feel sorry for them, knowing that if they don’t change soon then most likely, they’re going to live a life of misery. Therefore, do whatever it takes to influence them in a positive manner in order to inspire and motivate them to take action, stay clean and turn their life around.
Heroin destroys lives and tears families and friendships apart. And if you want to save your loved one from this evil drug then you're going to have to do whatever it takes to help them get clean and stay clean for good. They're going to need all the help that they can get from you, family members and drug-free friends.
And it’s not just the drugs that you have to worry about, it’s the drug dealers and his drug-using friends as well. Encourage them to erase their dealers' and drug using friends’ phone number(s) from their cell phone. And if necessary, encourage them to change their cell phone number as well. Do whatever it takes to keep the drug dealers and drug users away. Make it as difficult as possible for them to buy and use heroin. And in doing so, you just might save their life.
How to help them from afar:
If your friend or loved one lives away from you, then for the most part, you can still follow this article, along with a few modifications:
1. Gather your resources, information, phone numbers, etc..
3. Contact your friend or loved one (via email, text and by phone).
4. Explain to them their options for quitting (via email, text and by phone).
5. Give them all the help contact phone numbers (via email, text and by phone).
6. Give them my website address www.HowtoQuitHeroin.com (via email, text, and by phone).
7. Walk them through everything, (if they’re willing to listen or read your messages).
8. Encourage them to take action right away and then hope for the best.
If they truly want to quit then work with them and walk them through it. If they truly have a heartfelt desire to quit heroin, stay clean, and turn their life around then help them to do so. The rest is up to them. From afar, there’s not much that you can do, other than to give them the tools they need, encourage them to take action and then hope for the best. The rest is up to them.
Worst case scenario: If you simply can't get through to them at all then send them a text message with my website address: www.HowtoQuitHeroin.com That's it. Nothing more, nothing less. And then hopefully, they’ll visit my website out of curiosity, (and if they’re able to do so as well). From there, the rest is up to them. And anything can happen, so let's hope for the best.
1. Gather your resources, information, phone numbers, etc..
3. Contact your friend or loved one (via email, text and by phone).
4. Explain to them their options for quitting (via email, text and by phone).
5. Give them all the help contact phone numbers (via email, text and by phone).
6. Give them my website address www.HowtoQuitHeroin.com (via email, text, and by phone).
7. Walk them through everything, (if they’re willing to listen or read your messages).
8. Encourage them to take action right away and then hope for the best.
If they truly want to quit then work with them and walk them through it. If they truly have a heartfelt desire to quit heroin, stay clean, and turn their life around then help them to do so. The rest is up to them. From afar, there’s not much that you can do, other than to give them the tools they need, encourage them to take action and then hope for the best. The rest is up to them.
Worst case scenario: If you simply can't get through to them at all then send them a text message with my website address: www.HowtoQuitHeroin.com That's it. Nothing more, nothing less. And then hopefully, they’ll visit my website out of curiosity, (and if they’re able to do so as well). From there, the rest is up to them. And anything can happen, so let's hope for the best.
How to help them stay clean:
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If they manage to get clean and stay clean for the first few days, then it’s very possible for them to stay clean for good.
The first several weeks and even months are going to be the hardest part for them to get through. They’re going to go through mental battles every single day. They're going to get urges and strong cravings to use, along with mental and emotional instability and confusion, i.e. “do I want my old life back or do I want this new life?”, “Do I want to be clean, or do I want to get high”, are the type of battles that they’re going to face daily. That urge to use just one more time, is going to creep up on them every single day for the first few weeks, and sometimes months. And although for the most part, the battle belongs to them, there are still some things that you can do to help them win the battle, and stay clean for good. |
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Become their guidance counselor: If they trust you and allow you into their life, and want you there as well, then you can begin to influence them in a positive manner a lot more than what you might think. We can’t really force ourselves on anyone, but if they’re open to your guidance and suggestions then by all means, give it to them, (in a kind and loving manner). Give them all you got, and give them the best advice that you can possibly offer, (as long as the advice you have to offer is good and true).
Everyone needs someone to talk to. And just about everyone needs some kind of counseling. Everyone needs guidance and direction, especially when they’re lost and have lost their way. Everyone needs it, yet not everyone wants it. If you try to correct a person who doesn’t want to do right then they will dislike you and avoid you at all costs. But if you try to correct and help a person who wants to do right, then they will love you and thank you for it as well. A person like that can be helped.
No matter how messed up they are right now, a person who invites correction and listens to guidance can be helped. And in time, that person can change. With proper guidance, instruction and direction, that person can change and become a new person and a positive contribution to society, if that’s what they want to do. And if you’re able to talk to them and they’re willing to open up to you then find out what made them start using drugs in the first place. Find out “the root” cause of the problem, and then help them to work on or even eliminate that problem from their life.
Root causes for drug use can range from boredom, curiosity, loneliness, depression, anxiety, physical pain, an injury, a rough life, poverty, bad friends, bad music, bad environment, etc., to more complex issues such as tragic events from the past, neglect, problems at home, sexual or physical abuse, a family history of addiction, and other problems that may need some type of professional counseling. There can be many reasons why your friend or loved one turned to drugs and eventually turned to heroin. And if at all possible, try to help find that root cause and help them to deal with it as best as you can. For example…
Boredom, loneliness, and depression can all be addressed and helped without the use of pharmaceutical drugs. If your friend or loved one is bored, lonely, and depressed, then you can go visit them and pick them up. Take them out to the park, walk around, or just sit on a park bench and do some people watching while talking about their problems or just talking about life itself. Just by picking them up and taking them out of their home you can help them to relieve loneliness and depression. Just by listening to them talk you can help them to relieve depression to a great degree.
Check on them from time to time. Give them a call, see how they’re doing, if they need anything, etc... People need people who care, and the best way to help people is by being there for them, during the good and the bad. Call them, text them or send them an email. Visit them whenever you can. Encourage them to hang in there and stay in the battle. But whatever you do, don’t let them feel as if they're alone. They need to know that there are people who care about them and are there for them in their time of need. And nothing shows that more than by you reaching out to them and checking on them from time to time.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that after they’ve come off of the heroin, Suboxone or any kind of opiate drug, they're going to go through a phase of emotional instability or what is known as PAWS, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, which are the after effects of coming off of heroin and other opiate drugs.
Symptoms of PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) can include moments of guilt, stress, anger, anxiety, depression, and resentment towards others. And this can last anywhere from several weeks to several months after their last use of heroin or any type of opiate drug.
PAWS can affect their ability to interact with family members and friends, function effectively at work and regain emotional health. It can also affect their ability to make the right decisions in difficult situations. At times it can become difficult for them to concentrate, think clearly and solve problems as well. They can become angry and lose their temper for any little thing and lash out towards you or anyone else around them, even when they don’t mean to.
PAWS can make recovery difficult but it’s all part of the recovery process, and everyone has to go through it in some form or another; some less than others as well. However, PAWS is not constant or continual. It comes and goes just as mood swings do. But there are things that they can do to manage and overcome episodes of PAWS and eventually begin to feel better sooner than most people do.
First, it’s important to remember that PAWS is temporary and does not affect everyone in the same manner. Furthermore, it does not have to last for too long if they begin to take action to counteract the PAWS and help speed up the recovery process. Boredom, loneliness and being depressed is a dangerous place for anyone to be. And PAWS can make it very difficult to get through such times and can intensify such feelings as well.
It’s during those times of boredom, loneliness and depression is when all they want to do is use drugs. And if they think about it long enough then eventually they may go out and use. Even with work, school, etc, people can still become lonely and depressed. So in the mean time, if at all possible, you may want to start planning some fun and productive activities to do with them whenever you can.
Everyone needs someone to talk to. And just about everyone needs some kind of counseling. Everyone needs guidance and direction, especially when they’re lost and have lost their way. Everyone needs it, yet not everyone wants it. If you try to correct a person who doesn’t want to do right then they will dislike you and avoid you at all costs. But if you try to correct and help a person who wants to do right, then they will love you and thank you for it as well. A person like that can be helped.
No matter how messed up they are right now, a person who invites correction and listens to guidance can be helped. And in time, that person can change. With proper guidance, instruction and direction, that person can change and become a new person and a positive contribution to society, if that’s what they want to do. And if you’re able to talk to them and they’re willing to open up to you then find out what made them start using drugs in the first place. Find out “the root” cause of the problem, and then help them to work on or even eliminate that problem from their life.
Root causes for drug use can range from boredom, curiosity, loneliness, depression, anxiety, physical pain, an injury, a rough life, poverty, bad friends, bad music, bad environment, etc., to more complex issues such as tragic events from the past, neglect, problems at home, sexual or physical abuse, a family history of addiction, and other problems that may need some type of professional counseling. There can be many reasons why your friend or loved one turned to drugs and eventually turned to heroin. And if at all possible, try to help find that root cause and help them to deal with it as best as you can. For example…
Boredom, loneliness, and depression can all be addressed and helped without the use of pharmaceutical drugs. If your friend or loved one is bored, lonely, and depressed, then you can go visit them and pick them up. Take them out to the park, walk around, or just sit on a park bench and do some people watching while talking about their problems or just talking about life itself. Just by picking them up and taking them out of their home you can help them to relieve loneliness and depression. Just by listening to them talk you can help them to relieve depression to a great degree.
Check on them from time to time. Give them a call, see how they’re doing, if they need anything, etc... People need people who care, and the best way to help people is by being there for them, during the good and the bad. Call them, text them or send them an email. Visit them whenever you can. Encourage them to hang in there and stay in the battle. But whatever you do, don’t let them feel as if they're alone. They need to know that there are people who care about them and are there for them in their time of need. And nothing shows that more than by you reaching out to them and checking on them from time to time.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that after they’ve come off of the heroin, Suboxone or any kind of opiate drug, they're going to go through a phase of emotional instability or what is known as PAWS, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, which are the after effects of coming off of heroin and other opiate drugs.
Symptoms of PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) can include moments of guilt, stress, anger, anxiety, depression, and resentment towards others. And this can last anywhere from several weeks to several months after their last use of heroin or any type of opiate drug.
PAWS can affect their ability to interact with family members and friends, function effectively at work and regain emotional health. It can also affect their ability to make the right decisions in difficult situations. At times it can become difficult for them to concentrate, think clearly and solve problems as well. They can become angry and lose their temper for any little thing and lash out towards you or anyone else around them, even when they don’t mean to.
PAWS can make recovery difficult but it’s all part of the recovery process, and everyone has to go through it in some form or another; some less than others as well. However, PAWS is not constant or continual. It comes and goes just as mood swings do. But there are things that they can do to manage and overcome episodes of PAWS and eventually begin to feel better sooner than most people do.
First, it’s important to remember that PAWS is temporary and does not affect everyone in the same manner. Furthermore, it does not have to last for too long if they begin to take action to counteract the PAWS and help speed up the recovery process. Boredom, loneliness and being depressed is a dangerous place for anyone to be. And PAWS can make it very difficult to get through such times and can intensify such feelings as well.
It’s during those times of boredom, loneliness and depression is when all they want to do is use drugs. And if they think about it long enough then eventually they may go out and use. Even with work, school, etc, people can still become lonely and depressed. So in the mean time, if at all possible, you may want to start planning some fun and productive activities to do with them whenever you can.
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For example; doing some form of exercise with them, such as walking, jogging, running or biking, and taking long walks in the park. Walking through natural scenic views can also help greatly as well.
You can all go hiking, site seeing; fishing, rock wall climbing; or go to park just to hang out and talk; you can visit the zoo; go bowling; go-kart racing; horseback riding; and skating. You can watch inspirational movies at home and do any other kind of fun activity and event that you can think of. And if at all possible, try to involve other drug-free, family members and friends - decent people who can become good friends and positive role models for them as well. |
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You can encourage them to take on a healthy lifestyle, doing some form of daily exercise, eating healthy meals, drinking lots of water and taking vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements. A healthy lifestyle will help them to counteract drug addiction. And by the time it’s all over with, they can become stronger, healthier and happier as well.
With your help and support, they can do this. And all of this will help them to feel loved and cared for, giving them more reason to stay clean for good, not just for themselves but for others as well.
Bad friends, bad music, and bad environments can all be replaced with good friends, good music and good environments. Bad friends will have to be removed from their life and replaced with drug-free, family members and friends. They’ll have to be surrounded by good, clean, decent people who have a genuine concern for their welfare and can become a positive influence on their lives.
Bad music may have to be removed from the picture as well. If they’re listening to the wrong type of music then it’s going to become very difficult for them to change, as music has a powerful effect upon a persons’ actions, behavior, attitudes, feelings, emotions, temperament, thoughts and more. Music changes people from the inside out, and has a much more stronger and changing effect upon people than what most people might think. And if you can help them to change the music then you can help them to change who they are and what type of person they become as well. And most of today's most popular music such as rap, hip hop and rock, promotes sex, drugs and violence and was purposely designed to be used as a tool for character formation of the worst kind. And if you don’t believe this then all you have to do is look at the singers and their followers today. They’re all messed up!
“Thus, what you listen to literally forms what you become”, LDA.
But it’s not just the music; it’s the TV as well. Movies, videos and TV shows which promote and glorify drugs and violence also becomes a major contributing factor to their personal devolvement. And in time, we become what we watch just as well. So if we want to help them to change, then we need to educate them and encourage them to become more selective in what they listen to, what they watch and what they take into themselves on a daily bases, as all of this will have a great effect upon them as to what type of person they become.
Bad environments may have to be changed as well. Depending on how bad their environment is, and/or how close they live to the drug spots and drug dealers, it can become very difficult for them to get clean and stay clean in such environments. And if any difficulties should arise in getting clean and staying clean then you may want to talk to them about “relocating”.
Sometimes, if the addict is weak and remains in his current environment, it can become very difficult for them to stay clean and resist the urge to use. And this is also why many addicts tend to relapse within days, and sometimes hours after getting out of rehab and returning back home to their familiar environment. And although relocating may seem extreme to the non-user, it may become necessary for some addicts to do so if they continue to have difficulties staying clean where they are right now. And if they can’t stay clean where they are, then relocation may need to be considered. And a fresh, new start in a nice, new environment may be just what they need to start a new and better life.
If they’re living in poverty, then show them the road map for success. i.e. planning, preparation, action, determination, hard work, persistence, patience, ethics, honesty, morality, integrity - success. Help them to figure out what they want to do for the rest of their life and then create a step-by-step plan that will help them to get there. For example: If they have to get their G.E.D. high school diploma then help them to get it. Help them to find a local high school that gives G.E.D prep courses and then encourage them to sign themselves up, prepare for the test and then take it and pass. Then if they’re going to go to college or some type of training institute then help them to find out where’s the best place to go, costs, details, courses offered, etc… And if they need a job in the mean time, then help them to find a job. Encourage them to work hard. Show them how to manage and save their money as well.
They need goals. We all need goals to shoot for. For without such, life can become meaningless. Therefore, help them to create goals. And then help them to create a step-by-step plan that will help them to achieve their goals. Then encourage them to take action and go after their goals with all their heart until they attain their goals. It may take them some time to do so, but if they work hard, remain persistent and stick to the plan, then in time, they will be a lot better off than where they are now. And if they do things right then they will take themselves out of poverty, once and for all, and have a new and better life.
Staying clean with Vivitrol: If your friend or loved one is not able to stay clean from heroin no matter how hard they try, then you may want to talk to them about Vivitrol, which is a once-a-month shot that blocks the effects of heroin and all opiate drugs for 30 days. Vivitrol has helped many people stay clean from heroin and all opiate drugs and it can help your friend or loved one stay clean too! For more information on Vivitrol, please read my article, “Staying Clean With Vivitrol”
With your help and support, they can do this. And all of this will help them to feel loved and cared for, giving them more reason to stay clean for good, not just for themselves but for others as well.
Bad friends, bad music, and bad environments can all be replaced with good friends, good music and good environments. Bad friends will have to be removed from their life and replaced with drug-free, family members and friends. They’ll have to be surrounded by good, clean, decent people who have a genuine concern for their welfare and can become a positive influence on their lives.
Bad music may have to be removed from the picture as well. If they’re listening to the wrong type of music then it’s going to become very difficult for them to change, as music has a powerful effect upon a persons’ actions, behavior, attitudes, feelings, emotions, temperament, thoughts and more. Music changes people from the inside out, and has a much more stronger and changing effect upon people than what most people might think. And if you can help them to change the music then you can help them to change who they are and what type of person they become as well. And most of today's most popular music such as rap, hip hop and rock, promotes sex, drugs and violence and was purposely designed to be used as a tool for character formation of the worst kind. And if you don’t believe this then all you have to do is look at the singers and their followers today. They’re all messed up!
“Thus, what you listen to literally forms what you become”, LDA.
But it’s not just the music; it’s the TV as well. Movies, videos and TV shows which promote and glorify drugs and violence also becomes a major contributing factor to their personal devolvement. And in time, we become what we watch just as well. So if we want to help them to change, then we need to educate them and encourage them to become more selective in what they listen to, what they watch and what they take into themselves on a daily bases, as all of this will have a great effect upon them as to what type of person they become.
Bad environments may have to be changed as well. Depending on how bad their environment is, and/or how close they live to the drug spots and drug dealers, it can become very difficult for them to get clean and stay clean in such environments. And if any difficulties should arise in getting clean and staying clean then you may want to talk to them about “relocating”.
Sometimes, if the addict is weak and remains in his current environment, it can become very difficult for them to stay clean and resist the urge to use. And this is also why many addicts tend to relapse within days, and sometimes hours after getting out of rehab and returning back home to their familiar environment. And although relocating may seem extreme to the non-user, it may become necessary for some addicts to do so if they continue to have difficulties staying clean where they are right now. And if they can’t stay clean where they are, then relocation may need to be considered. And a fresh, new start in a nice, new environment may be just what they need to start a new and better life.
If they’re living in poverty, then show them the road map for success. i.e. planning, preparation, action, determination, hard work, persistence, patience, ethics, honesty, morality, integrity - success. Help them to figure out what they want to do for the rest of their life and then create a step-by-step plan that will help them to get there. For example: If they have to get their G.E.D. high school diploma then help them to get it. Help them to find a local high school that gives G.E.D prep courses and then encourage them to sign themselves up, prepare for the test and then take it and pass. Then if they’re going to go to college or some type of training institute then help them to find out where’s the best place to go, costs, details, courses offered, etc… And if they need a job in the mean time, then help them to find a job. Encourage them to work hard. Show them how to manage and save their money as well.
They need goals. We all need goals to shoot for. For without such, life can become meaningless. Therefore, help them to create goals. And then help them to create a step-by-step plan that will help them to achieve their goals. Then encourage them to take action and go after their goals with all their heart until they attain their goals. It may take them some time to do so, but if they work hard, remain persistent and stick to the plan, then in time, they will be a lot better off than where they are now. And if they do things right then they will take themselves out of poverty, once and for all, and have a new and better life.
Staying clean with Vivitrol: If your friend or loved one is not able to stay clean from heroin no matter how hard they try, then you may want to talk to them about Vivitrol, which is a once-a-month shot that blocks the effects of heroin and all opiate drugs for 30 days. Vivitrol has helped many people stay clean from heroin and all opiate drugs and it can help your friend or loved one stay clean too! For more information on Vivitrol, please read my article, “Staying Clean With Vivitrol”
Help them build structure in their life:
Without structure, it’s very difficult to have stability. And without stability, it’s very easy to fall. Building or rebuilding structure is one of the most important elements needed to help keep your friend or loved one on the right path. They may already have some form of structure, but for those who don't, it's important to realize that they need to have structure or work to build structure in their life in order to keep moving forward and have something to look forward to. And structure consists of:
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1. Having a full life.
2. Having a stable place to live and prepare their meals. 3. Having a routine for working and making a living. 4. Having family or other people to live with or be around. 5. Having places to go and social companionship. 6. Having good to fair health. 7. Having goals to accomplish. |
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All of these things are important to normal everyday life. And if you can help them to build or rebuild structure in their life then you can help them to have a new and better life and to stay clean as well.
Basically, help them to follow the tips, advice and instructions on my website to as best as they can or to however far they’re willing to go. There’s enough material on this website to help anyone change their lives for the better. But it’s up to them to read it, consider it, and then do it, (if that’s what they want to do). And by doing so, they can quit heroin, stay clean, and turn their life around.
Other complex issues may need to be dealt with professionally depending on the severity of the matter. Physical pain from an injury for example may need to be dealt with by a physical therapist or a pain management specialist. If your friend or loved one has experienced emotional and psychological trauma in their life then they may need to seek professional help from an experienced trauma specialist.
In order to heal from psychological and emotional trauma, they may have to face and resolve the feelings and memories they’ve long avoided. Otherwise those memories will return again and again, and at any time as well. If it’s just you and them, then don’t pressure your loved one into talking but be available when they do want to talk. Don’t force them to open up, but let them know you are there to listen whenever they feel they are ready to talk. And some people are more likely to open up to their friends than to their parents, especially when it comes to young people. And some people may only open up to a professional as well. But most people find it difficult to talk about a traumatic event that has happened to them. And if they do open up to you, then keep it confidential. Don’t tell others what your loved one may speak to you about in private. Confidentiality is important. If someone tells you their problems, it’s because they trust you. And once you break that trust, then they may never trust you again, and you may never be able to help them.
When bad things happen to people, or when people are mistreated by others, it can take a long time for people to get over the pain and feel safe again. But with the right treatment and support, they can make their way to recovery without heroin or other drugs in the picture. Whether the traumatic event happened years ago or recently, they can still begin to heal and move on with their life. Get to the root of the problem; help them to get through it, so that they can move on to create a new and better life for themselves. But remember that the main reason for the continued use of heroin is due to the physical and mental addiction to the drug, and not necessarily the root cause alone.
Basically, help them to follow the tips, advice and instructions on my website to as best as they can or to however far they’re willing to go. There’s enough material on this website to help anyone change their lives for the better. But it’s up to them to read it, consider it, and then do it, (if that’s what they want to do). And by doing so, they can quit heroin, stay clean, and turn their life around.
Other complex issues may need to be dealt with professionally depending on the severity of the matter. Physical pain from an injury for example may need to be dealt with by a physical therapist or a pain management specialist. If your friend or loved one has experienced emotional and psychological trauma in their life then they may need to seek professional help from an experienced trauma specialist.
In order to heal from psychological and emotional trauma, they may have to face and resolve the feelings and memories they’ve long avoided. Otherwise those memories will return again and again, and at any time as well. If it’s just you and them, then don’t pressure your loved one into talking but be available when they do want to talk. Don’t force them to open up, but let them know you are there to listen whenever they feel they are ready to talk. And some people are more likely to open up to their friends than to their parents, especially when it comes to young people. And some people may only open up to a professional as well. But most people find it difficult to talk about a traumatic event that has happened to them. And if they do open up to you, then keep it confidential. Don’t tell others what your loved one may speak to you about in private. Confidentiality is important. If someone tells you their problems, it’s because they trust you. And once you break that trust, then they may never trust you again, and you may never be able to help them.
When bad things happen to people, or when people are mistreated by others, it can take a long time for people to get over the pain and feel safe again. But with the right treatment and support, they can make their way to recovery without heroin or other drugs in the picture. Whether the traumatic event happened years ago or recently, they can still begin to heal and move on with their life. Get to the root of the problem; help them to get through it, so that they can move on to create a new and better life for themselves. But remember that the main reason for the continued use of heroin is due to the physical and mental addiction to the drug, and not necessarily the root cause alone.
Drug test them:
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It’s important to help people. And it’s important to give people the benefit of the doubt. But when in doubt, there’s only one way to know for sure if they are using heroin or not – and that is to drug test them with a surprise and supervised drug test kit for opiates. But it must be a surprise without any notice in advance.
If they’re clean, then they’ll be more than happy to take the drug test for you. But if they’re not clean, then they may become defiant and uncooperative. And if they become defensive, then most likely they’ve used heroin and may be still using heroin every single day. |
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You can purchase a home drug testing kit for heroin, opiates and all other drugs at your local pharmacy or Walmart as well. And then in a kind and loving manner, you can ask them to take the drug test so that you can know for sure that they are clean indeed.
Summary:
To help others quit heroin:
1. Remove any negative feelings such as anger, judgment and frustration.
2. Replace those feelings with love, compassion and concern for the addict.
3. Learn about heroin and heroin addiction.
4. Learn about the different methods for quitting heroin.
5. Gather your resources, information, phone numbers etc..
6. Approach the addict and present your solutions along with your resources.
7. Ask them how they want to quit and get a commitment.
8. Help them to quit the drug.
9. Help them to stay clean for good.
10. Help them to build or rebuild structure in their life.
11. Drug test them with a surprise and supervised drug test.
12. If they don’t want to quit then give them a choice: Heroin or their relationship with you.
But if they want to quit then help them. Give them all you got. Give them your best. Do Everything you can to help them quit heroin, stay clean and turn their life around. Do everything and say everything in a kind and loving manner. And don’t give up hope on them, until there’s no hope left. Because as long as they’re alive then there’s still hope yet.
In order for someone to be helped, they need someone to help them. There has to be someone willing to go out of their way to help them. And right now, that someone is you. And you may very well be their last hope left. And just because a person may be messed up now, doesn’t mean that they can’t change. Because believe it or not, people change, and they can change too.
The most important thing that we can do in our lives, is to help others in need, especially those who reach out for help. And if you can help someone with a drug addiction, then you can actually save their life. And by helping others, you will be rewarded. By putting others first, you will be rewarded - guaranteed. And who knows, maybe after this, you can become a drug counselor, a guidance counselor or a youth counselor as well. If you can help them while they’re young, then you can save them from a life of misery and change their destiny. You can become a social worker and help others in need. You can read books on drug counseling and drug addiction and/or go to school to learn more about these matters.
Drug addiction is on the rise more than ever before, and it will only get worse as time goes on. But you can help people and save them from a life of despair, one life at a time. Becoming a drug counselor, may not be for everyone, but it just might be for you. But if you can help just one person, then it will all be worth your while.
In the mean time, focus on the person who you’re trying to help right now. Try to guide them and help them to have a new and better life. And although it’s impossible for me to say for sure if your friend or loved one is going to get clean or not; we can’t sit still and do nothing. We can’t just let them fade away and die. We have to try to help them as best as we can, and then yes, the rest is up to them.
They are the ones who have to go to battle; for the battle belongs to them. They are the ones who have to quit this drug and stay clean for good. But you can be their coach in their corner and one of the crowd routing them on, and with your help and support, they can fight the battle and win. With your guidance and assistance, they can quit this drug, and turn their life around. Good luck my friend. And may the good force be with you.
Sincerely,
Jorge (George) Fernandez
Over 20 Years Clean from Heroin
About Jorge (George) Fernandez
Contact Jorge (George) Fernandez
Feel free to add me on Facebook
1. Remove any negative feelings such as anger, judgment and frustration.
2. Replace those feelings with love, compassion and concern for the addict.
3. Learn about heroin and heroin addiction.
4. Learn about the different methods for quitting heroin.
5. Gather your resources, information, phone numbers etc..
6. Approach the addict and present your solutions along with your resources.
7. Ask them how they want to quit and get a commitment.
8. Help them to quit the drug.
9. Help them to stay clean for good.
10. Help them to build or rebuild structure in their life.
11. Drug test them with a surprise and supervised drug test.
12. If they don’t want to quit then give them a choice: Heroin or their relationship with you.
But if they want to quit then help them. Give them all you got. Give them your best. Do Everything you can to help them quit heroin, stay clean and turn their life around. Do everything and say everything in a kind and loving manner. And don’t give up hope on them, until there’s no hope left. Because as long as they’re alive then there’s still hope yet.
In order for someone to be helped, they need someone to help them. There has to be someone willing to go out of their way to help them. And right now, that someone is you. And you may very well be their last hope left. And just because a person may be messed up now, doesn’t mean that they can’t change. Because believe it or not, people change, and they can change too.
The most important thing that we can do in our lives, is to help others in need, especially those who reach out for help. And if you can help someone with a drug addiction, then you can actually save their life. And by helping others, you will be rewarded. By putting others first, you will be rewarded - guaranteed. And who knows, maybe after this, you can become a drug counselor, a guidance counselor or a youth counselor as well. If you can help them while they’re young, then you can save them from a life of misery and change their destiny. You can become a social worker and help others in need. You can read books on drug counseling and drug addiction and/or go to school to learn more about these matters.
Drug addiction is on the rise more than ever before, and it will only get worse as time goes on. But you can help people and save them from a life of despair, one life at a time. Becoming a drug counselor, may not be for everyone, but it just might be for you. But if you can help just one person, then it will all be worth your while.
In the mean time, focus on the person who you’re trying to help right now. Try to guide them and help them to have a new and better life. And although it’s impossible for me to say for sure if your friend or loved one is going to get clean or not; we can’t sit still and do nothing. We can’t just let them fade away and die. We have to try to help them as best as we can, and then yes, the rest is up to them.
They are the ones who have to go to battle; for the battle belongs to them. They are the ones who have to quit this drug and stay clean for good. But you can be their coach in their corner and one of the crowd routing them on, and with your help and support, they can fight the battle and win. With your guidance and assistance, they can quit this drug, and turn their life around. Good luck my friend. And may the good force be with you.
Sincerely,
Jorge (George) Fernandez
Over 20 Years Clean from Heroin
About Jorge (George) Fernandez
Contact Jorge (George) Fernandez
Feel free to add me on Facebook
Speak to a treatment specialist now. Call: 1.855.970.2547
Call 1.855.970.2547, 24/7 to speak to a treatment specialist for free. Get help finding the best treatment options available for yourself or a loved one. Rehab centers, detox centers, inpatient, outpatient programs, therapy, counseling, sober living housing and more. A 5 minute phone call is all it takes to get you the help you need. Get help now. Call: 1.855.970.2547
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