Because of the recent Anthrax outbreak in Scotland I've decided it is time to rewrite my self detox handout.

This handout is designed to help people stop using heroin without the need for a substitute script.There are many reasons people chose to self detox, and over the years I've used versions of this handout with lots of people who tell me its helpful.

Here is an excerpt from the supporting notes that go with the handout:

Emotional pain: People start using heroin for many reasons, unfortunately some of these include a need to avoid thinking about painful aspects of life or life experience. Add to this some of the things that happen to someone who has been using heroin and you have an emotional time waiting for people who quit using. Even people who have other reasons for using heroin are sometimes side swiped by the emotions they get when they stop using. It’s important to both understand that this is normal and it will be easier as time goes on. Engaging with support networks can really help with this.

The handout is available for download here.

(UPDATE: there was an error with the original file that had resulted in an image appearing in the text, if you downloaded this before 24/06/10 please download again.)