Personalized, Ethical Outpatient Care to Help You Break Free
Heroin is one of the most addictive and destructive drugs in the world. What may start as experimentation or a substitute for prescription opioids can quickly spiral into a devastating cycle of dependence, withdrawal, and despair. At Lanier Recovery Center in Atlanta, we offer trusted, individualized outpatient treatment for heroin addiction rooted in clinical excellence, compassion, and a deep commitment to long-term recovery.
What Is Heroin?
Heroin is an illegal opioid derived from morphine, typically sold as a white or brown powder or a sticky black substance known as black tar heroin. It is most often injected, smoked, or snorted, producing an intense euphoria followed by heavy sedation. Because heroin acts quickly on the brain’s opioid receptors, addiction can develop after just a few uses.
Today, much of the heroin on the street is laced with fentanyl—making it significantly more dangerous and increasing the risk of overdose.
How Heroin Affects the Body and Mind
Short-term effects:
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Intense rush of euphoria
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Warm, relaxed sensation in the body
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Slowed breathing and heart rate
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Dry mouth and itching
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Nausea or vomiting
Long-term effects and risks:
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Severe physical dependence
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Constipation and sexual dysfunction
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Sleep disturbances
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Collapsed veins (from injection)
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Infections like hepatitis or HIV
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High risk of fatal overdose
Heroin Use Statistics
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In 2021, approximately 1 million people in the U.S. reported heroin use.
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Over 13,000 heroin-related overdose deaths occurred that same year.
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Nearly 80% of heroin users report having first misused prescription opioids.
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Georgia continues to see increased heroin use in metro and suburban areas due to its availability and affordability.
These numbers reflect a growing crisis—and the urgent need for ethical, accessible care.
Recognizing Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction can affect anyone, regardless of background. It often begins with a desire to numb emotional pain or cope with trauma and quickly becomes a full-time battle to avoid withdrawal.
Common signs of heroin addiction include:
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Needle marks or skin infections
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Chronic drowsiness or nodding off
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Lying, stealing, or withdrawing from loved ones
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Drastic changes in appearance or hygiene
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Frequent flu-like symptoms (withdrawal)
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Overdose or near-overdose experiences
Daily Challenges of Heroin Addiction
Living with heroin addiction often means:
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Constant cravings and fear of withdrawal
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Legal problems and unstable housing
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Emotional numbness, guilt, and shame
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Loss of employment and broken relationships
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Risk of infectious disease from unsafe use
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Feelings of hopelessness and isolation
These struggles can feel impossible to escape—but with clinical support, healing is possible.
Heroin Addiction Treatment at Lanier Recovery Center
We believe in meeting clients where they are. Whether you’re newly sober, recently relapsed, or transitioning from detox, our outpatient programs are designed to provide the structure, support, and accountability you need.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHP is our most intensive outpatient level of care. It includes five full days per week of individual and group therapy, psychiatric support, and case management. This program is ideal for those stabilizing after detox.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP offers 3–5 days of weekly care and is designed for individuals ready to develop skills for sustained recovery. IOP balances structured treatment with real-world responsibilities.
Outpatient Program (OP)
OP provides weekly therapy, peer support, and continued accountability for those in long-term recovery or stepping down from IOP.
Treatment modalities include:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Trauma-informed individual therapy
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Family therapy and education
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Dual diagnosis treatment (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety)
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Relapse prevention and emotional regulation skills
We also coordinate Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) options when appropriate, including Suboxone and Vivitrol.
Why Choose Lanier Recovery Center?
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Experienced clinicians with expertise in opioid use disorder
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Customized treatment plans for each client’s background and needs
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Ethical and trauma-informed care based on mutual trust
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Flexible outpatient model for real-life recovery
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Strong community support to combat isolation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to detox before starting treatment?
Yes. Heroin withdrawal can be intense and even dangerous. We refer clients to trusted medical detox providers before beginning outpatient care.
Is outpatient treatment enough for heroin addiction?
Outpatient treatment can be highly effective—especially when paired with detox, MAT, and family involvement. We’ll help determine the best level of care.
Does insurance cover heroin addiction treatment?
We accept most major insurance providers and can verify your coverage quickly.
How long does treatment last?
Clients typically engage in PHP or IOP for 8–12 weeks and transition to OP and aftercare. Recovery is ongoing, and we’ll walk with you for as long as needed.
Get Help for Heroin Addiction Today
You’re not alone. Recovery from heroin addiction is possible with the right support. At Lanier Recovery Center, we’re committed to walking beside you with empathy, integrity, and personalized care. Contact our Atlanta-based team today for a confidential assessment and take your first step toward healing.
