Heroin addiction rehab
Overcome heroin addiction and start your journey to recovery with Priory’s expert-led rehab, tailored to your needs.
Take the first step towards a healthier, drug-free life with a free assessment today.
Heroin is a highly addictive substance that can have devastating consequences for the user and their loved ones.
Due to the severity of heroin withdrawal symptoms, the safest and most effective way to treat heroin addiction is by undergoing a structured treatment at a professional rehabilitation facility.
If you recognise the signs of heroin addiction in yourself or someone you love, find out how it’s treated and how you can start your recovery journey.
Treatment options and process
Depending on your individual circumstances and needs, there are various treatment options available for heroin addiction. Rehab typically involves several stages designed to support your recovery:
Initial assessment
The free initial assessment is conducted by a highly trained addiction therapist. They will evaluate your substance use, mental health, and personal circumstances to develop an individualised treatment plan.
This confidential assessment typically lasts around 90 minutes and can be done over the phone or in person. It involves discussing your addiction history, medical background, and treatment goals. The therapist will explain available treatment options, the admissions procedure, and next steps while answering any questions you may have.
Inpatient treatment
Inpatient treatment involves structured and intensive care in a supportive environment with 24/7 access to medical and therapeutic staff in a safe residential environment.
Whilst there, you’ll receive a holistic programme of treatments, including:
Medically-assisted detoxification
The first step in heroin addiction treatment is medically-assisted drug detox, which focuses on safely removing heroin from your body, while helping you manage withdrawal symptoms.
During the detox process, you may be prescribed medication to help you manage your symptoms and keep you as comfortable as possible.
At Priory, detox is led by a specialist team as part of a comprehensive treatment programme and typically lasts 7 to 10 days. Under 24/7 medical supervision, you will be supported to manage your withdrawal symptoms in a safe and friendly environment.
Once your system has been cleansed of heroin, you’ll transition into inpatient treatment, where you’ll receive structured therapy, holistic activities, and ongoing medical support.
Therapy and holistic activities
During an inpatient rehab stay, patients are invited to attend therapy to address the psychological aspects of addiction. Effective approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) and the 12-step model. Sessions can be one-to-one, in-group, and family based.
Rehab programmes include activities such as mindfulness, yoga, and exercise to improve your overall wellbeing.
Family involvement
Families play a critical role in recovery. Family members are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions to ensure they’re informed and actively involved in the rehabilitation process.
Pharmacological treatment
An integral part of heroin addiction rehab alongside psychological support is medication, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Pharmacological interventions are adapted to your needs but typically include:
- Methadone is a synthetic opioid. It’s used to replace heroin and stabilise the individual by reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
- Buprenorphine works by partially stimulating opioid receptors, which reduces cravings and alleviates withdrawal symptoms.
- Naltrexone blocks the effects of heroin (also known as an opioid antagonist), preventing the user from experiencing the euphoric effects of the drug, reducing cravings and the risk of relapse both in treatment and post-rehab. Administered through the nose, naltrexone can be life-saving in the event of suspected overdose, so can be a vital part of aftercare for heroin addiction.
Outpatient/day care treatment
Outpatient and day care treatment for heroin addiction are step-down options for those transitioning from inpatient rehab. They’re designed to help you manage cravings effectively, develop coping strategies, and prevent relapse.
The outpatient programme offers individual therapy, group therapy, and relapse prevention strategies, and includes attending a local 12-step programme. The day care programme allows you to attend treatment for a set number of sessions each week.
Additionally, online therapy is available through Priory’s digital platforms to give you access to continued access to professional support from home.
Aftercare
An integral part of heroin addiction rehab is the 12-month aftercare plan. It includes follow-up support, such as counselling sessions or group therapy, a relapse prevention plan and other resources designed for long-term recovery, and family support.
Choosing the right rehab centre
When you’re choosing a rehab centre, it’s important that you consider several factors to ensure you receive high-quality care and a treatment plan suited to your needs.
Private vs public options
Private rehab, at Priory’s network of UK hospitals for example, offers treatment via self-funding or private medical insurance (PMI). You’re typically admitted within days of conducting the initial assessment, and receive a customised treatment plan, access to evidence-based therapies and holistic care in a comfortable and secure environment.
Public rehab (such as that offered by the NHS) is free but often has longer waiting times due to high demand. Treatment is evidence-based but may be less personalised due to the high number of patients accessing the service.
Cost
The cost of private rehab depends on the type and availability of treatment and the location of the facility. Costs can be covered by the individual or by PMI.
Many private rehabs, including Priory, are registered and approved providers of UK private medical insurers. Verify with your insurance provider whether your policy covers treatment. Or, for a personalised quote, you can contact Priory.
Location and facilities
When choosing a rehab centre, consider whether you’d prefer treatment close to home or in a different location. Private healthcare providers like Priory offer centres nationwide, giving you flexibility based on your needs and preferences.
Priory offers purpose-built facilities designed for comfort and recovery. You’ll receive care from some of the best specialists in addiction treatment to ensure high-quality, evidence-based care throughout your journey.
Support for families
Heroin addiction can have devastating effects on the individual as well as their loved ones. This makes family involvement crucial for a sustainable recovery.
At Priory, our treatment programmes support families to navigate this journey effectively by offering:
- Family therapy: therapy can help to improve communication and understanding, rebuild trust, and address the impact of addiction on loved ones
- Support meetings: families have access to support groups, which provide a safe space to share their experiences and gain guidance from others in a similar situation
- Information and advice: includes understanding the warning signs of relapse, how to build healthy boundaries and provide practical support
- Family visits: depending on your wishes, family visits are supported
- Ongoing support: families are encouraged to engage with aftercare programmes to promote long-term sobriety
How to access treatment
If you need treatment for heroin addiction, you can access public or private services.
Priory offers fast access to first-class private addiction treatment, delivered by our team of expert specialists. In one of our high-end facilities, you’ll receive a personalised care plan and dedicated aftercare support to promote long-term recovery.
For free treatment, contact your GP or a local drug treatment service through a charity or your local authority. These services offer evidence-based treatments and support but often have long waiting times due to high demand.
To start your recovery journey with Priory, book a free addiction assessment to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment based on your needs and preferences.
FAQs
How long does heroin rehab take?
Inpatient heroin rehab takes place as part of a 28-day addiction treatment programme. The first 7 to 10 days of this will typically be spent detoxing, although you’re able to join therapy groups as soon as you’re physically able to. Following a 28-day stay, you’ll have access to free aftercare for 12 months.
Can I detox at home safely?
Detoxing from heroin at home isn’t safe due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the risk of relapse or overdose. That’s why it’s crucial to go through this process under medical supervision in a safe and supportive environment.
What should families know about heroin rehab?
Addiction affects the entire family and therefore family involvement is encouraged. Families can help by learning about addiction, attending family therapy, and joining support groups.
Priory offers practical guidance for family members and comprehensive aftercare to support families to navigate the challenges of long-term recovery.