Heroin use on college campuses is a huge problem. Take a look at the causes behind this type of drug abuse and the consequences that follow it.

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Heroin use on college campuses is prevalent in America. A study conducted in 2012 found that 6 percent of college students abused heroin. This illicit drug is a schedule I controlled substance and is highly addictive. Many college students who abuse this drug will get hooked on it for life.

Why Do College Students Get Hooked on Heroin?

College is a time for experimentation, and many students will be open to the idea of trying different types of drugs. Some college students start off by abusing prescription opioids. When their prescription or supply runs out, they will try heroin instead, as it does basically the same time.

“According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 80% of heroin users reported misusing prescription drugs before turning to heroin.”

Addiction affects anyone, and heroin use on college campuses can affect anyone, from studious college students to athletic ones. There’s no particular reason why someone may try heroin. Some popular reasons why some college students experiment with heroin include:

• Trying to find a way to relieve stress from studying and from schoolwork
• Wanting to have fun with their friends, especially if they’re in a sorority or fraternity or involved in greek life
• Feeling pressured to try different drugs in order to be “one of the gang”
• Trying to get a stronger high by mixing it with other prescription drugs, illicit drugs or alcohol

Many colleges have normalized drug and alcohol use. It may seem like a normal affair to some students, especially since binge drinking appears to be widely accepted.

What Type of Consequences Do Drug Abusers Face?

Unfortunately, heroin use will influence one’s perception and how he or she acts. Those who abuse heroin may face many negative consequences, including:

• Saying or doing something embarrassing
• Neglecting homework and other responsibilities at school
• Doing impulsive things that they regret later
• Getting hooked on other drugs
• Facing withdrawal symptoms, which can be life-threatening
• Losing interest in once-pleasurable activities
• Facing issues with one’s academic performance
• Dropping out of school
• Losing close relationships because of their drug or alcohol use
• Developing mental health disorders, also known as co-occurring disorders

Just one use of heroin can lead to an addiction. Those who are addicted will need to seek help from a drug rehab in order to get sober. This type of opioid addiction comes with some very serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Long-term drug users will sustain permanent damage to their body and mind.

Get Help Now if You’ve Abused or Are Addicted to Heroin

Heroin is extremely addictive. Just one use can lead to the development of a substance use disorder (SUD). This illegal drug is also one of the most difficult drugs to break free from. With heroin use on college campuses on the rise, it’s vital that colleges take action to prevent this opioid epidemic from continuing to spread.

College and university students who have an addiction to heroin will need professional help. This includes not only drug detox, but also behavioral therapy and counseling. The road to recovery will be long and difficult; however, with the right motivation and mindset, recovery is possible.