Objective:To study the mental health status of heroin addicts and their need for psychotherapy after detoxification. Methods:The mental health of 83 heroin addicts and 70 normal subjects were assessed by SCL-90, Social Support Rating Scale , EPQ, SAS and SDS. Results:As compared to normal controls, heroin additions were found to score higher on various mental health measures, including SCL-90 total and factor scores, the N score of EPQ, as well as total scores on SAS and SDS. The social support in heroin addicts scored lower than normal subjects. Conclusion:Heroin addicts have severe psychological problems, which warrant long-term psychological rehabilitation after detoxification.