Opioid addiction can impact anyone, regardless of age, background, or personal story. For some, it begins with a prescribed pain medication after an injury or surgery. For others, it starts with heroin as a way to escape emotional or physical pain. No matter how it begins, opioid addiction can quickly become overwhelming, but help and healing are possible.
Promises Atlanta understands how difficult this can be. That’s why we offer evidence-based, compassionate care for both heroin addiction treatment and prescription opioid addiction treatment. If you or a loved one needs support, contact Promises Atlanta today to explore personalized treatment options to meet your recovery goals and needs.
Overview of opioid addiction
Definition and types of opioids
Opioids are drugs that reduce pain and create feelings of relaxation or euphoria. There are two main types:
- Prescription opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine
- Illegal opioids, such as heroin or illicit fentanyl
While some opioids are legal and medically prescribed, all opioids can lead to addiction when misused.
Prevalence and statistics
Opioid addiction is a national crisis. Millions of people in the U.S. are struggling with the misuse of prescription drugs or heroin. According to the CDC, more than 75% of drug overdose deaths in recent years involved an opioid.1 The number of opioid-related deaths rose dramatically between 1999 and 2023. However, 2023 saw the first annual decline since 2018, signaling a potential turning point.1 This could be because of many reasons, including increased awareness and efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.
Heroin addiction
Causes and risk factors
Heroin addiction often starts when someone builds a tolerance to prescription opioids and turns to heroin because it’s cheaper and easier to find. Risk factors include:
- Past use of prescription opioids
- Mental health conditions
- Trauma or chronic pain
- Peer pressure or family history of addiction
Signs and symptoms
Common signs of heroin addiction include:
- Needle marks or skin infections
- Extreme drowsiness or "nodding off"
- Sudden weight loss
- Lying or stealing to get drugs
- Pulling away from family or friends
Long-term effects
Over time, heroin use can cause serious health problems, including:
- Heart infections
- Liver or kidney disease
- Breathing problems
- Brain damage from a lack of oxygen
While these effects can be life-threatening, recovery is achievable with the proper heroin addiction treatment.
Prescription opioid addiction
Commonly abused prescription opioids
Some of the most commonly misused opioids include:
- OxyContin (oxycodone)
- Vicodin (hydrocodone)
- Percocet
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
These drugs are commonly prescribed to manage pain after surgery or a serious injury, as they are highly effective in providing relief. However, when used for an extended period or taken in higher doses than recommended, they can become habit-forming and potentially lead to addiction, posing significant risks to both physical and mental health.
Risk factors and causes
Prescription opioid addiction can happen to anyone. Risk factors include:
- Long-term use of pain medication
- High doses prescribed
- Family history of substance use
- Mental health conditions
Symptoms and warning signs
Warning signs may include:
- Taking more pills than prescribed
- Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors)
- Withdrawal symptoms between doses
- Mood changes or irritability
Impact on health and well-being
Prescription opioid addiction can cause:
- Constipation, nausea, and confusion
- Breathing problems
- Risk of overdose
- Trouble at work or school
- Strained relationships
Comparing heroin and prescription opioid addiction
Similarities in addiction patterns
Both heroin and prescription opioids affect the brain in similar ways. They create a strong sense of pleasure and pain relief, which can quickly lead to addiction. Over time, the body needs more of the drug just to feel normal.
Differences in usage and effects
- Heroin is usually injected, snorted, or smoked.
- Prescription opioids are typically taken in pill form, though they can also be crushed and snorted or injected.
Heroin often causes a faster, more intense high, which increases the risk of overdose. Prescription pills may seem safer, but can be just as dangerous when misused.
Social and economic impacts
- Heroin addiction may lead to homelessness, legal issues, or jail time.
- Prescription opioid addiction can affect working professionals, students, and parents, often without anyone realizing there’s an issue.
Both types of addiction can lead to financial problems, broken relationships, and serious health issues.
Treatment options for heroin addiction
Heroin detox programs
Detox is the first step in recovery. At Promises Atlanta, we offer medical detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe, supportive setting. Our staff is available 24/7 to guide you through it.
Behavioral therapies
Therapy helps people understand the reasons behind their drug use and develop healthy coping skills. Therapy options can include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Family therapy
Medication-assisted treatment
Medications like Suboxone or methadone can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Combined with therapy, they increase the chances of long-term recovery.
Treatment options for prescription opioid addiction
Prescription opioid rehab programs
Prescription opioid rehab at Promises Atlanta includes both inpatient and outpatient care. We tailor each program to meet a person's needs and offer support at every stage. Our team can help you find the level of care that you need and that will support your path to recovery.
Counseling and support groups
Healing isn’t just about quitting the drug—it’s about rebuilding life. Counseling and peer support help clients feel understood, connected, and motivated to keep going. We offer group therapy, individual counseling, family therapy, and more.
- Group therapy: Group therapy allows individuals to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. It provides a safe and supportive environment where clients can share their struggles, learn from each other, and develop coping skills together.
- Individual counseling: One-on-one sessions with a therapist provide personalized support and guidance for clients. This allows for a deeper exploration of underlying issues and triggers that may contribute to substance abuse.
- Family therapy: Addiction affects both the individual and their loved ones. Family therapy helps repair relationships, improve communication, and address enabling behaviors. It also allows family members to understand addiction and support their loved one’s recovery.
- Support groups: Support groups, such as our alumni community and 12-step programs, provide a sense of community and connection with others in recovery. They offer a safe space to share experiences, struggles, and successes while receiving support from peers who understand the challenges of addiction.
Role of medication in recovery
Medications may be used short-term or long-term depending on your needs. They help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, giving your body and mind time to heal.
Recovery and relapse prevention
Building a support network
Recovery is easier with support. At Promises Atlanta, we help clients build strong support systems through therapy, family involvement, and our alumni community.
Lifestyle changes and coping strategies
From healthy eating to exercise and mindfulness, small daily choices play a big role in healing. Our programs teach practical ways to manage stress and avoid relapse.
Long-term recovery planning
Ongoing care is essential for lasting success. After treatment, we offer outpatient support, relapse prevention plans, and referrals to community resources.
Seeking help for opioid abuse
Identifying when to seek help
If opioid use is interfering with daily life—physically, emotionally, or socially—it’s time to seek help. You don’t have to wait for things to get worse.
Resources and support services
Promises Atlanta provides full-spectrum care, including:
- Medical detox
- Residential treatment
- Men's rehab
- Women's rehab
- Outpatient treatment
- Mental health support for co-occurring disorders
- Family and group therapy
Overcoming stigma and barriers
Shame should never stand in the way of healing or recovery. Addiction is a complex medical condition, not a reflection of someone’s character or moral failure. That’s why we approach every client with compassion, treat them with dignity, and ensure they feel respected throughout their journey.
Find a path to recovery at Promises Atlanta
Whether you're facing heroin addiction or struggling with prescription drug use, real healing is possible. Promises Atlanta offers specialized care that includes heroin detox programs, prescription opioid rehab, and long-term opioid addiction recovery. With inpatient and outpatient options, gender-specific treatment, and a team that understands the challenges of addiction, you’ll never have to walk this path alone. Call Promises Atlanta at 888.488.6303 or connect with us online today to take the first step toward a healthier, more hopeful future.
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