New Jersey Heroin Detox Program

Heroin Detox in NJ

Excel Treatment Center understands the trauma that can accompany heroin addiction and withdrawal. We work alongside superb detox facilities which provide expert medical assistance to those attempting to break their addiction.

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Our New Jersey Detox Programs

Heroin Detox

There is no doubt that New Jersey has been affected by the opioid crisis. Heroin has swept across America and has been responsible for 14,996 deaths in 2018 in this state alone. It is estimated that there are 128,000 active heroin addicts in New Jersey, and it has affected people from all walks of life.

Heroin is one of the most addictive substances known to man. It physically changes the chemistry of the brain, and the withdrawal symptoms can be severe. Many users are left with feelings of hopelessness. However, as uncomfortable as the withdrawal symptoms are, it is possible to recover from heroin addiction.

Excel Treatment Center understands the trauma that can accompany heroin addiction and withdrawal. We work alongside superb detox facilities which provide expert medical assistance to those attempting to break their addiction. They aim to make the process as comfortable as possible, and our clients are often surprised at how different a medically supervised detox is, as opposed to attempting to go it alone.

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What Is Heroin?

Heroin in New Jersey presents as a white powder which is snorted, injected, or smoked. Users typically experience a rush of euphoria and a sense of well-being. It is a strong painkiller, and it blunts the effects of emotions. Heroin is highly addictive, and a single-use can be enough to cause psychological dependence.

As more is used over time, this mental dependence becomes a physical addiction. The body adapts to constantly having heroin in its system, and stops production of certain chemicals which are used to regulate the body. When someone stops taking heroin suddenly, this lack of regulation causes intense withdrawal symptoms.

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Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal

Typically known as ‘dope sickness’, withdrawal symptoms start around six to eight hours after the last dose is used. They usually peak on day three or four and will begin to reduce after about a week. Acute symptoms usually stop after three weeks, although some people experience effects for months after.

The acute withdrawal symptoms include:

Mild:

Moderate:

Severe:

All levels of withdrawal symptoms are characterized by intense urges to use heroin. The detox period is an especially vulnerable time for users. This is why it is important to detox safely, with medical assistance.

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Medical Heroin Detox

We understand that attempting to detox alone is extremely hard. Clients have usually tried this many times before they reach out to us. The physical and mental symptoms can feel unbearable, and many people find themselves using heroin again to cope. However, with the correct medical assistance, symptoms can be managed.

Many people experience a rush of emotions after detoxing. Heroin blocks feelings, so being newly sober can feel overwhelming. Our understanding and non-judgmental staff are always at hand to listen to our client’s problems during these times. It is also helpful to be around other people who are beginning their recovery journey.

The withdrawals

Treating Heroin Withdrawal

Various medications can be used to treat the symptoms of withdrawal. These act in a similar way to heroin, but are prescribed by a medical professional. They make the symptoms much more bearable and gives our clients a comfortable start to their recovery.

Some of the drugs used are:

Methadone stays in the bloodstream for an entire day. It can still cause dependency, and people can still ‘top-up’ with heroin. Effects can be monitored in the controlled environment of a detox facility. Methadone is usually slowly reduced, which avoids acute withdrawal symptoms.

This works on a similar part of the brain to heroin. However, it has a ‘ceiling’ effect, meaning that there is a limit to how much can be taken, which lowers its abuse potential. It is essential to only take buprenorphine when the client is already in withdrawal, or it can make them feel worse.  Our clinicians are skilled in assessing the perfect time to move someone onto this medication.

One of the main complaints of heroin withdrawal is restless legs. Clonidine helps to reduce these symptoms, and also reduces symptoms of anxiety.

Testimonials

Stories of Hope

For over a decade, Excel Treatment Center has been helping those struggling with substance abuse on their path to long-term healing. Don't take our word for it. Check out our client testimonials.

Excel treatment has changed my life! The staff starting from the intake process, to all the clinicians are amazing! I really enjoy that. Most of the staff are in recovery and relate to me I have been shown so much support, understanding, and accommodation above and beyond!

Shannon R.

PAYING FOR TREATMENT

We Work With Most Insurance

We work with many insurance providers in the U.S. to help you minimize out of pocket expenses and get better faster. Please call us today to find out more.

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Mental Health and Heroin Withdrawal

We understand that heroin addiction and mental health disorders can co-occur. Research by the National Alliance on Mental Illness has shown that around half of habitual drug users have some kind of mental health condition. We carry out a thorough assessment before our clients begin their treatment with us. This informs us of any pre-existing conditions that will require treatment alongside the addiction.

We also know that many people reach us, having never had a proper mental health diagnosis. Our clinicians are highly skilled in diagnosing mental health conditions, and we can arrange for medication to be prescribed if necessary. We can also show our clients coping strategies and help them explore the potential causes of these conditions.

We will never force our clients to stop taking their mental health medication. Our heroin detox program is specifically for heroin, and our focus is always the wellness of our clients. If it is deemed necessary, we can arrange for mental health medications to be prescribed during the detox process.

The Excel Difference in Treatment

Maintenance Medication

Medication can also be used to treat heroin addiction in the long-term. Once stabilized, many of our clients choose to stay on medication. Although our clinicians will help with making this decision, it is ultimately the client’s choice.

These can include:

This is taken daily. It is often used in high doses, which as previously stated blocks the effects of heroin. Care should be taken with this, as even though it has a low abuse potential, people can still use heroin if they miss a dose.

This is given as a monthly injection. This completely blocks the effects of heroin, and also can help to reduce cravings.

Although these medications can be helpful, they are not a ‘silver bullet’. People can still drink and use other drugs whilst on these medications, which is why we recommend clients still engage in our recovery programs during the first six months of recovery.

Take a Tour of Our Facilities

Take a tour of our outpatient facility alongside our supportive housing options that provide safety & community when seeking treatment for substance abuse and mental health conditions.

Admissions

Our admissions process is simple. Contact our caring team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to begin the process of getting help. We work with most major commercial and private insurance plans. 

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Polydrug Detox

It is common for heroin users to take other drugs such as alcohol, cocaine, crack, or benzodiazepines to increase the effects. It is possible to detox from multiple drugs, and our team are skilled in making this as easy as possible.

Before you are admitted to the center, you will have the opportunity to tell us about any other drugs you are taking. You may also be required to provide a drug screen sample. This enables our staff to tailor the detox program to make sure you are as comfortable as possible and ensure your safety throughout.

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Treatment After Detox

Addiction is a deep-seated condition, and simply breaking the physical dependence is not enough. As important as detox is, it is advised that clients engage in one of our recovery programs to ensure the best chance of success. It is here that clients will learn the coping strategies that will set them on the path of long-term recovery.

Our recovery programs are tailored to the individual and are all underpinned by the 12 Steps. Therapies include one-to-one therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and holistic practices.

We meet our clients where they are and help to guide them through the early stages. We believe that by showing people care and compassion, we can help them to build a solid foundation for their recovery.

On-going Support

Recovery is a life-long process. However, that doesn’t mean that your life has to be boring. We know how exciting recovery can be, and we want our clients to share that feeling. It is an opportunity for a new chapter in life. We offer an alumni program, where our clients can return for ongoing support. They also get the chance to lead newcomers by example, which is a brilliant way to build self-esteem.

We are partnered with several sober living facilities that provide support and accommodation for those who are just starting in their recovery journey. There is a fantastic recovery scene in New Jersey, with a wide range of mutual aid meetings and sober groups. In remaining connected to others on the same journey, our clients build a solid foundation and can go on to enjoy a happy and successful recovery.

Detoxification services are not offered at the Excel Treatment Center, but we do provide patients with referrals to professional, licensed, and insurance friendly detoxification facilities.

Do not hesitate to reach out to us for a referral at (973)-547-1918 if you or a loved one is suffering from a substance use disorder and are ready to seek treatment.

Heroin

Excel is an effective heroin addiction treatment center in New Jersey. We pride ourselves on our compassionate approach to treating heroin addiction. You can rest assured that our expert staff will provide you or your loved one the best possible foundation for a long and successful recovery.

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Addictions We Treat

Heroin Addiction

New Jersey is in the midst of a deadly epidemic of heroin addiction – in 2019, 2,900 people lost their lives to overdose, and it was the most common drug for people seeking drug addiction treatment in this state in 2019. New Jersey is located close to two major highways and a seaport, making it a high-activity area for drug trafficking. This has led to widespread dealing and high availability, with doses costing between just $5-10 dollars.

Heroin is extremely dangerous, and its physically addictive nature means that it can be tough for users to stop on their own. However, with the right intervention, therapy, and support, it is possible to recover successfully and live a happy and productive life.

UNDERSTANDING ADDICTION

What is Exactly is Heroin?

Heroin can come in many forms, but the type most commonly seen here is a white powder which originates in South America. It is made from the poppy plant and is typically sold in small bags stamped with a particular logo or design which contains a single dose. Heroin samples can vary wildly in potency, making the risk of overdose extremely high. More worryingly, heroin has been recently found to contain the ultra-potent opioid painkiller fentanyl, which further increases the risk of severe side effects and even death.

Heroin is typically snorted, smoked, or injected. Injection is the most dangerous, as the drug enters the bloodstream instantly. Because of this instant hit, users typically experience a ‘rush’ that is extremely pleasurable and addictive. That said, New Jersey has seen multiple deaths from snorting and smoking heroin, especially with the introduction of fentanyl into the drugs market.

Heroin can be used interchangeably with other opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine. It is usually much cheaper, which means that many people addicted to prescription painkillers make the switch to heroin for financial reasons. The opioid crisis, largely caused by overprescription, has meant that people of all ages and from all walks of life have found themselves using heroin.

What We Offer

Addictions We Treat

What Happens to Your Body When You Use Heroin

Short Term Effects of Heroin Abuse

Our bodies contain natural opioids, which fulfill various roles, such as regulating pain and body temperature. Heroin is similar to these natural opioids, and it binds to the same receptors in the body, causing a massive release of dopamine, which is our ‘feel-good’ chemical.

The initial effects of heroin are:

One dose of heroin is enough to become psychologically addicted, where users crave the same experience. This means that people can become dependent on the substance without being physically addicted, though addiction will follow.

Testimonials

Stories of Hope

For over a decade, Excel Treatment Center has been helping those struggling with substance abuse on their path to long-term healing. Don't take our word for it. Check out our client testimonials.

Excel treatment has changed my life! The staff starting from the intake process, to all the clinicians are amazing! I really enjoy that. Most of the staff are in recovery and relate to me I have been shown so much support, understanding, and accommodation above and beyond!

Shannon R.

PAYING FOR TREATMENT

We Work With Most Insurance

We work with many insurance providers in the U.S. to help you minimize out of pocket expenses and get better faster. Please call us today to find out more.

DON'T WAIT ANOTHER DAY

Request a 100% Confidential Callback

Is Heroin Addiction Dangerous?

Risk Factors of Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction and the associated lifestyle can be extremely damaging to users. Although it is easy to think death by overdose is the only negative effect heroin can have, there are a multitude of other problematic, adverse issues.

Increased Blood-Born Viruses

These include HIV or hepatitis C and arise from sharing needles and other equipment. In New Jersey, between 16-20% of new cases of HIV and 86% of hepatitis C are linked to injecting drugs.

 
Skin Sores

Heroin causes a massive release of histamines, which makes users feel incredibly itchy. This can cause them to scratch their skin obsessively, particularly on their face. This can lead to sores, which in turn can become infected due to the lifestyle heroin addiction can entail.

Damage from Injecting

Users frequently inject in unsanitary conditions, leading to infections and abscesses. Heroin users who frequently re-use the same syringes also put themselves at risk of fatal blood infections such as endocarditis.

 
Collapsed Veins

Repeatedly injecting heroin causes veins to become damaged and collapse, which can impair circulation and can cause blood clots. This is especially dangerous in ‘deep vein’ sites such as the groin or neck – if you or your loved one are using these areas you should seek help immediately.

 
Loss Limbs

This can be caused by a multitude of reasons, from infections to blood clots. It can also be caused by accidentally injecting drugs into an artery, particularly the femoral artery, which runs through the groin down to the feet.

 
Criminal Justice

Heroin is illegal, and even possession can result in imprisonment. Although heroin can seem cheap at first, users typically build up a tolerance and need more and more to achieve the same effect, resulting in heroin addiction becoming expensive. Many people find themselves committing a crime to fund their habits. The New Jersey Drug Threat Assessment estimates that 70% of violent crime in New Jersey is linked to the drugs trade.

 

Take a Tour of Our Facilities

Take a tour of our outpatient facility alongside our supportive housing options that provide safety & community when seeking treatment for substance abuse and mental health conditions.

Admissions

Our admissions process is simple. Contact our caring team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to begin the process of getting help. We work with most major commercial and private insurance plans. 

How to Know if someone is abusing heroin

Signs of Heroin Addiction

Although some users are very good at hiding the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction, there are certain signs and behaviors that you can look out for.

Some of these include:

If you suspect a loved one is using heroin, it is always best to seek professional treatment. At Excel Treatment Center, our clinical and therapeutic team are experts in non-confrontational and compassionate intervention, and the well-being of the heroin user is always our main concern.

How to Know If I Need Detox

Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms

Over time, prolonged use of heroin causes the body to shut down its production of natural opioids, which results in users becoming physically dependent on the substance. This means the natural chemicals the body uses to maintain its balanced state have now been disrupted, and the body now relies on heroin to function. If users stop suddenly without medical support, the resulting withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and, in some instances, fatal.

Some of the symptoms of heroin withdrawal are:

What to do when I need help

New Jersey Heroin Detox

This is a particularly vulnerable period for heroin users – as they will typically crave heroin to stave off the withdrawal symptoms. However, in a controlled setting with the proper medication and support, the symptoms can be treated, making the experience more manageable and giving users the best chance at sustained recovery.

Medications typically used to ease the withdrawal symptoms are methadone and Suboxone (buprenorphine). These bond to the same brain sites as heroin and prevent users from going into an uncontrolled withdrawal. These medications are reduced slowly, meaning symptoms are more comfortable and less acute. Other medications such as clonidine can be used to control symptoms such as restless legs, and nausea. Sleeping tablets can also be prescribed if necessary.

Heroin detox usually peaks in intensity after three or four days and should not last longer than 28 days. However, while not common, some people experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), which can last for months. If this happens, help and support are vital during these vulnerable months of early recovery.

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Preparing for Treatment

Get Help at Our Heroin Addiction Treatment Center in New Jersey

The first and bravest step in the recovery journey is admitting that you need help. At the Excel, we understand this can be a daunting prospect. Many people attempt to stop using heroin multiple times on their own before seeking professional help, and we know that this can be disheartening. We also appreciate that the thought of a life free from drugs can be intimidating to users. However, millions of Americans are actively in recovery and living a life free from addiction – it is entirely possible with the right support.

If you or your loved one are addicted to heroin, the kindest thing you can do for yourself or them is to pick up the phone and schedule an initial assessment.

How Rehab Works

The first stage of rehab is detox, which is supervised by medical professionals. Following this, we offer a variety of recovery programs, which we tailor to meet our client’s unique needs. We are aware that many mental health conditions can co-occur with heroin addiction. We carry out an expert assessment to help us develop a bespoke program that treats the client as a whole.

We offer a range of evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group therapy, and holistic practices to make sure that clients receive the comprehensive treatment they deserve. We aim to uncover and treat the root cause of the addiction, which empowers our clients on their journey to a sustained and successful recovery.

Aftercare & Recovery

We take great pride in offering our clients ongoing support. New Jersey is a fantastic location with a thriving recovery scene. We are partnered with sober living facilities and provide aftercare programs that allow our clients to continue their healing journey and be inspirational role-models for those in early recovery.

New Jersey has a wide variety of mutual support meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous to help maintain and strengthen recovery and has a great range of sober social groups where people can mix and make new friends safely. Recovery doesn’t mean life has to be boring – it means a fresh start.

If you or your loved one are struggling with heroin addiction, please reach out to us today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Medically Reviewed By:

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Meg Zarnick

MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, CCS
Clinical Director

Written By:

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Nick Sparrow

Experienced Writer & Author