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.