Psychological+Effects

**Psychological and Physiological Effects Heroin Has on the Body**

To understand more clearly how heroin effects suicidal ideation and attempts, let us first explore the physiological and psychological effects heroin has on the body. Heroin is classified as an opiate, which are, according to Lefton et al. (2000) a class of drugs with pain-releiving and sedative properties that are addictive and produce tolerance. Heroin is usually a white or brownish powder, which is dissolved in water and then injected. Injecting heroin intrevenously results in the fastest and most intense "high". (Harrison & Carver, 2004)

__Physiological__ Heroin is an opiate that dulls the senses, relieves pain, tranquilizes, and induces euphoria. The main physiological effect heroin has is impaired functioning of the respiratory system. Heroin also causes changed in the heart, arteries and veins as well as constipation and loss of appetite.(Lefton et al. 2005) Often referred to as "down" due to these depressing qualities it has on the body. Lefton et al. (2005) also points out an indirect consequence of using, which is the contraction of blood-born diseases. HIV, AIDS and Hepetitis C are the main concern for today's heroin users. Shared needles pose the largest risk for contracting these diseases which explains the need for the distribution of clean needles to users.

__Psychological__ The psychological effects associated with heroin include anxiety, mood swings, confusion, paranoia, euphoria or a rush feeling which is followed by a relaxed content state. (erptherapy, 2009) As stated above heroin is commonly referred to as "down", similarily as it has depressing effects on the physiological system, it also has depressing outcomes for the psychological system. Blocking out unwanted thoughts, feelings or moods is often associated with the use of heroin. Opiate receptors are located mainly in the limbic system, which are considered the pleasure pathways. The heroin may enhance or replace other rewading experiences, like eating, and decrease or eliminate negative sensations. (Lomp, 2009)