Heroin relapse rates are high, and relapse can be one of the biggest risks for people in recovery. This is because of the risks involved in recovery and the medical issues it raises. Given the numbers, this is also an issue that demands urgent attention.
According to the CDC, opioids account for 7% of overdose deaths in the United States, with heroin and synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, playing the largest role in these fatalities. For those who’ve taken the courageous step to seek recovery, relapse doesn’t just set back progress; it can be life-threatening as well.
The relationship between heroin relapse and overdose is complex, involving shifts in tolerance, the unpredictability of street drugs and the increasing presence of fentanyl in the drug supply. If you or a loved one is in recovery from heroin or other opiates, your success, and even your safety, are dependent on knowing the risks, building strategies to avoid relapse and planning for a lifetime of sobriety.
Changes in Tolerance After Sobriety
One of the most dangerous aspects of heroin relapse OD lies in how quickly the body’s tolerance to opioids decreases during sobriety. After even a short period without heroin, the body loses its ability to process the drug at previously accustomed levels. When someone relapses, they may use the same dose they did before quitting, unaware their system can no longer handle it.
This sudden change in tolerance creates the perfect storm for an overdose. What was once a manageable dose can become fatal as the body is overwhelmed by the drug’s effects. Respiratory depression, a hallmark of opioid overdose, can occur quickly and often without warning.
If you’re in recovery, it’s important to understand the risk posed by changes in your body’s tolerance for heroin. It’s helpful for supportive loved ones to be educated as well. Providing access to naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, is one way to reduce fatalities. However, preventing relapse remains the most effective way to avoid these dangers.
Health Risks of Overdose and Fatalities
The physical risks associated with heroin relapse are severe, and overdose remains the most significant danger. When heroin enters the body in a dose that exceeds its reduced tolerance, respiratory depression can occur. This condition slows or stops breathing, leading to brain damage, organ failure or death if untreated.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that’s 50 to 100 times stronger than heroin, amplifies these risks. Increasingly, heroin is cut with fentanyl, making it impossible for users to know the potency of their dose. The unpredictability of these mixtures is a significant factor in the rising fentanyl relapse rate and the alarming number of overdose deaths linked to it.
Beyond overdose, relapsing can exacerbate preexisting health issues. Chronic heroin use weakens the immune system, damages the heart and liver and increases the risk of infectious diseases. Relapsing can bring a sudden resurgence of these health problems, making a return to recovery even more difficult. The stakes of relapsing to opioid use are high, but with the right support and education, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of relapse and protect themselves from its devastating consequences.
The Role of Impurities in Relapse Incidents
The drug supply today is more dangerous than ever. Heroin is often adulterated with various substances to increase profits for dealers. These additives can range from harmless fillers to toxic chemicals, but the presence of fentanyl is the most alarming.
Fentanyl’s extreme potency means even a tiny amount can be lethal. For individuals in recovery, this presents a heightened risk, as they often relapse using heroin from unknown sources. Without the tolerance they once had, even trace amounts of fentanyl can result in overdose.
Compounding the problem, users often don’t know what they’re taking. Street drugs are rarely pure, and the combination of heroin with other substances can lead to unpredictable effects. This is especially true when other sedatives, such as benzodiazepines, are involved, which can amplify the depressant effects of heroin and increase the risk of fatal overdose.
Testing kits for fentanyl and other impurities are becoming more accessible, but they aren’t a foolproof solution. The safest way to avoid the dangers of impurities is to stay on the path of recovery and maintain access to a strong support system.
Strategies to Prevent Relapse and Stay on Track
Avoiding relapse is one of the most critical steps in ensuring a safe and successful recovery from heroin addiction. While the journey is challenging, several strategies can help you stay on track and reduce your risk of relapse.
- Build a strong support system. Surround yourself with people who support your recovery. This can include family, friends, sponsors or members of recovery groups. The sense of community can help reduce feelings of isolation, a common trigger for relapse.
- Engage in therapy. Professional counseling, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help address the underlying issues that led to addiction. Therapy also provides tools for coping with cravings and stress.
- Stay connected to recovery programs. Regular attendance at meetings of support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, can provide accountability and encouragement. Many people find solace and strength in sharing their experiences with others who understand their struggles.
- Practice healthy habits. Exercise, nutrition and mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can improve physical and mental health. These habits help reduce stress and create a foundation for long-term recovery.
- Create a relapse prevention plan. Work with a counselor or support group to identify triggers and develop strategies to manage them. A solid plan can make all the difference when facing high-risk situations.
Recovery doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. Seeking help, staying connected and prioritizing self-care are essential steps to avoiding relapse and ensuring a healthier future.
Beat the Heroin Relapse Rate and Achieve Lifelong Recovery
At Sunlight Recovery, our programs are designed to provide the support, resources and community needed to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. With a focus on individualized care and evidence-based practices, we empower individuals to build a brighter future.
If you or someone you know is struggling with heroin addiction or at risk of relapse, don’t wait. Contact the compassionate professionals at Sunlight Recovery today to learn how we can help you achieve lifelong recovery and avoid the dangers of relapse.
