I actually found the exact opposite to be true on a personal level. In the early 80's I experimented heavily with every illicit drug I could get my hands on and walked away unscathed a few years later none the worse for wear. I would not recommend that anyone repeat my adventures but I had a fucking blast!
Heroin is just as bad as they say it is but the high is incomparable. It's been described as touching the face of God or as Heaven itself. I've never been able to describe it myself and gave up trying decades ago.