Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a mental health condition that affects both the brain and behavior, leading to difficulty controlling the use of substances such as alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. It impacts not only a person’s physical health but also their relationships, work performance, and emotional well-being.
A Substance use disorder is an insidious condition that begins with frequent use of drugs and gradually develops into dependence. Over time, people might need more and more to get the same effect, and this leads to lasting changes in the brain as well as the onset of withdrawal symptoms. Professional substance abuse therapy and early intervention play a vital role in recovery.
At Rise Well Behavioral, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is designed to assist people in coping with SUD treatment, allowing individuals to receive care without full-time hospitalization, enabling them to continue their daily routines.
What Is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a mental health condition that affects both the brain and behavior, leading to difficulty controlling the use of substances such as alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. It impacts not only a person’s physical health but also their relationships, work performance, and emotional well-being.
A Substance use disorder is an insidious condition that begins with frequent use of drugs and gradually develops into dependence. Over time, people might need more and more to get the same effect, and this leads to lasting changes in the brain as well as the onset of withdrawal symptoms. Professional substance abuse therapy and early intervention play a vital role in recovery.
At Rise Well Behavioral, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is designed to assist people in coping with SUD treatment, allowing individuals to receive care without full-time hospitalization, enabling them to continue their daily routines.
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
Identifying the signs and symptoms of substance use disorder early can simplify the recovery process. Common symptoms include:
Physical Symptoms
- Severe weight loss or gain
- Poor hygiene
- Fatigue, tremors, or shakiness
- Muscles cramping
Cognitive Symptoms
- Lack of concentration
- Poor decision-making ability
- Impaired Judgement
- Memory problems or forgetfulness
Behavioral Symptoms
- Isolation
- Social Anxiety
- Failure to attend work, school, or family duties
- Risky behavior, such as reckless driving
Psychological Symptoms
- Intense mood swings or irritability
- Anxiety, panic attacks, or depression
- Feelings of guilt
- Cravings for the substance
Withdrawal symptoms
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
The other symptoms of substance abuse are behavioral changes, isolation, mood swings, and financial issues. When you or someone you love exhibits such symptoms, a professional assessment is important to establish the most appropriate treatment approach.
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
Physical Symptoms
- Severe weight loss or gain
- Poor hygiene
- Fatigue, tremors, or shakiness
- Muscles cramping
Cognitive Symptoms
- Lack of concentration
- Poor decision-making ability
- Impaired Judgement
- Memory problems or forgetfulness
Behavioral Symptoms
- Isolation
- Social Anxiety
- Failure to attend work, school, or family duties
- Risky behavior, such as reckless driving
Psychological Symptoms
- Intense mood swings or irritability
- Anxiety, panic attacks, or depression
- Feelings of guilt
- Cravings for the substance
Withdrawal symptoms
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
Causes of Substance Use Disorder
The exact cause of substance use disorder is still not known; however, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse the substance use disorder can be caused by interacting with several factors, such as:
Biological Factors
- Genetics and family history of addiction.
Environmental Factors
- Exposure to drugs and peer pressure
Psychological Factors
Existing mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Causes of Substance Use Disorder
Biological Factors
- Genetics and family history of addiction.
Environmental Factors
- Exposure to drugs and peer pressure
Psychological Factors
Existing mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Substance Use Disorders Types
Substance use disorders may occur in a variety of forms, depending on the type of substance and its impact on the brain and the body.
Different types of SUD possess diverse symptoms and risks. These include:
Alcohol Use Disorder – Excessive intake of alcohol, which results in dependency.
Opioid Use Disorder – Heroin/painkiller abuse.
Stimulant Use Disorder – Addiction to such substances as cocaine or methamphetamine.
Sedative or Hypnotic Use Disorder – Addiction to anti-anxiety or sleeping drugs.
Cannabis Use Disorder – Chronic consumption of marijuana with psychological effects.
Substance Use Disorders Types
Alcohol Use Disorder – Excessive intake of alcohol, which results in dependency.
Opioid Use Disorder – Heroin/painkiller abuse.
Stimulant Use Disorder – Addiction to such substances as cocaine or methamphetamine.
Sedative or Hypnotic Use Disorder – Addiction to anti-anxiety or sleeping drugs.
Cannabis Use Disorder – Chronic consumption of marijuana with psychological effects.
Substance Use Disorder Treatment
IOP sessions enable patients to work with emotions, associate with peers, and remain focused on long-term objectives to be cured. Evidence-based methods that our licensed therapists employ to facilitate healing and recovery include:
Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Medication Management
Medicines help to control strong cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and maintain brain chemicals.
Psychotherapy
Therapies such as CBT, DBT, and ACT help patients gain awareness of the emotional triggers and make them resilient to avoid relapse.
Substance Abuse Therapy
Helps a person know the underlying causes of addiction and teaches healthier coping strategies.
Mindfulness Practices
Teach patients healthier ways to cope with difficult situations without taking drugs.
When to Seek Help
Recognizing the symptoms of substance use disorder at the right time can make all the difference in recovery. You should reach out for help if you experience:
Choosing Risewell for Treating Substance Use Disorder
Rise Well Behavioral provides Addiction Treatment programs that allows individuals to receive structured and flexible care to help them recover without placing their lives on hold.
Key features:
Personalized Plan
Each person begins with an assessment to design a treatment plan suited to their recovery goals.
Flexible Schedule
Our Addiction Treatments Programs offer daytime or evening sessions, allowing individuals to continue work, school, or family life while receiving treatment.
Relapse Prevention
Focuses on long-term recovery through aftercare planning and relapse prevention strategies.
Complete Support
With a combination of medication and behavioral therapies.
Brandie Petet
Provider Alston is very kind and attentive. She listens very well, and she is very concerned about your medications working their best. I highly recommend her.
Melissa Bailey
Excellent dr to manage ADD. They are caring and take time to truly understand and do what’s best for the individual patient. Rebecca & Christine continually go the extra mile for patients.
Louanne Dickenson
Therapist listened to my situation and issues. Knowledgeable of condition and how to help me
Chérie King
Kai is a great practitioner and I receive excellent care from her. Televisits work smoothly and are so convenient
Frequently Asked Questions
Is substance use disorder a mental health disorder?
Yes, Substance use disorder is known to be a mental health disorder that impacts the functioning of the brain, resulting in compulsive drug use and behavioral changes.
Is alcohol use a substance abuse?
Yes, Alcoholism refers to substance abuse in which one gets addicted to alcohol, and it affects both physical and mental health.
What is the impact of substance abuse on mental health?
Substance use disorder can worsen existing mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues, and make it more difficult to control the symptoms.
How to stop substance use?
Professional assistance, such as Psychotherapies, medication management, and programs, such as IOP, that focus on physical and psychological components of substance abuse, are the most effective ways of preventing substance use disorder.
