Substance Use Disorder (Addiction)
What is Substance Use Disorder ?
A substance use disorder (SUD) is a multifaceted condition that leads to the uncontrolled use of one or multiple substances despite the damaging consequences. Substances include alcohol, licit and illicit drugs, and medications.
Individuals with SUD experience a range in severity and may live with other mental disorders and challenges including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions. Addiction is the most severe form of SUD.
As a result of SUD, brain structure and function change and influence distorted thought processes and behaviors that negatively impact their daily functions, including abnormal movements, personality changes, variance of judgment and decision making, and the development of cravings.
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
- Developing high tolerance for substance
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Difficulty with fulfilling responsibilities at work, school or home
- Lack of participation in social or recreational activities
- Consuming large amounts of the substance
- A strong desire or craving to use the substance
- Unsuccessful efforts to control substance use
- Spending a lot of time obtaining or using the substance
Options for Substance Use Disorder
- Counseling or psychotherapy by a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist can be beneficial in identifying and understanding the individual’s specific circumstances in order to determine the best steps towards recovery.
- For medications, individuals may want to contact their physician to discuss potential options to relieve symptoms of withdrawal, control cravings, and possibly prevent relapse.
- Hospital or residential treatment may be needed for detoxification and/or rehabilitation.
- Sober-living communities can be helpful in preventing relapse because of a highly controlled alcohol or drug free environment.
- Support groups are another great option. People with SUD may benefit from joining a support group and sharing their concerns and accomplishments with others. Groups include Alcohol Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, etc.)
