Heroin is a highly addictive illegal opioid that rapidly affects the brain’s reward system. Because heroin produces an intense but short-lived high, people who use it often feel compelled to use again and again, and physical dependence can develop quickly. Heroin addiction carries serious risks, including overdose, infections, and damage to physical and mental health. Highwater Detox provides medically supervised heroin detox and residential rehab at our private facility near Los Angeles, California.
Signs of Heroin Addiction
Many people who use heroin first became dependent on prescription opioids and turned to heroin when prescriptions became harder to obtain or more expensive. Others started using heroin directly. Signs of heroin addiction can include drowsiness, small pupils, mood swings, secrecy, financial problems, loss of interest in activities and relationships, and the presence of drug paraphernalia. Over time, a person may use heroin simply to avoid feeling sick.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal can begin within hours of the last dose. Symptoms may include intense cravings, anxiety, restlessness, muscle and bone aches, sweating, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and insomnia. While these symptoms are rarely life-threatening on their own, they are extremely uncomfortable, and the cravings that accompany them make relapse very common without professional support. Relapse after a period without heroin is especially dangerous because tolerance drops, increasing the risk of overdose.
Medical Heroin Detox at Highwater Detox
At Highwater Detox, heroin detox typically lasts 6 to 10 days. Our clinical staff provide 24/7 monitoring, individualized symptom management, and emotional support. When clinically appropriate, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is used to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making detox safer and more manageable. Each patient’s detox plan is based on their history of heroin use, their health, and any co-occurring mental health disorder.
A Comfortable, Private Setting
Patients go through detox in a comfortable, private environment rather than a clinical ward. They can choose individualized or shared rooms, enjoy freshly prepared gourmet meals, and rest knowing that experienced staff are available at every hour. As they stabilize, patients begin individual therapy and addiction counseling to start addressing the causes of their addiction.
Residential Rehab for Heroin Addiction
Completing heroin detox is an important achievement, but long-term recovery requires more. Residential rehab, available in 7, 30, 60, or 90-day programs, gives patients time to heal, rebuild routines, and learn to manage cravings without returning to heroin. Because detox and rehab take place in the same facility, patients continue their care with the same team and in the same environment.
Therapy and Relapse Prevention
During residential rehab, patients participate in individual therapy, group therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and addiction counseling. MAT may continue as part of their plan. Therapy helps patients understand the thoughts, emotions, and situations that lead to heroin use, while relapse prevention planning prepares them to face triggers safely after treatment.
Dual Diagnosis and Holistic Care
Heroin addiction is often connected to trauma, emotional pain, or a mental health disorder. Our co-occurring disorders treatment addresses these conditions alongside addiction. Holistic services, including yoga, massage therapy, fitness, and outdoor activities, help patients restore their physical health and reconnect with a sense of wellbeing.
Get Help for Heroin Addiction Today
Highwater Detox provides 24/7 same-day admissions for heroin detox and rehab. We accept most major private insurance plans, including PPO, POS, and Open Access plans, and self-pay options are available. We do not accept Medi-Cal or Medicaid. Contact our admissions team today for a free, confidential consultation and insurance verification.
If you need FREE help or have Medical or Medicaid insurance please contact the National Helpline about mental and/or substance use disorders, prevention, treatment, and recovery in English and Spanish.