Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD) is a complex but treatable condition in which a person becomes incapable of controlling their use of substances like alcohol, drugs, or medications, even when they know it’s causing them harm. SUD is a clinical diagnosis, but any unhealthy use of substances is worth reflecting on.
Understanding the signs of SUD or unhealthy use of substances and seeking help is a critical first step toward recovery and reclaiming your health and quality of life.
Depending on which substance is being used, the symptoms of the cycle of use may vary, but are tied to when the substance is in your body or not:
Understanding the signs of SUD is important – whether you’re concerned about your own behaviors or those of a loved one. These signs can include:
Although an exact cause is hard to pinpoint, multiple factors may play a role in the development of an SUD, including:
SUD can vary in levels of severity, and very severe cases may require in-patient care. Detoxification and long-term care that lasts throughout a lifetime is sometimes required for successful recovery.
The most important first step is seeking professional care. If you feel you or a loved one is in crisis, call 911, or use our Emergency Resources for immediate help. If you think you might be misusing substances to any degree, it’s worth talking to a professional.
SUD and other mental health conditions can go hand in hand. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 33.5% of adults with a mental illness also have substance use disorder.
If you are in recovery or seeking support for an ongoing SUD, or misusing substances, MindGlow Health providers are experienced in providing that care as part of an overall mental health treatment plan. Drawing on a vibrant legacy of nearly 25 years at the forefront of behavioral health excellence, our providers will work one on one with you to create a tailored program designed to treat your unique needs and concerns.
Talk therapy can be a key part of managing behaviors related to SUD and improving your overall well being.
Mindglow Health providers will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that may include one of a variety of styles of therapy, to help you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that lead to poor decisions. They may use other tools and exercises to reduce symptoms and manage stress, while recommending certain lifestyle changes to support your mental health journey.
All our therapists are licensed, qualified, and experienced mental health professionals.
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Depending on the substance being used, medication is sometimes prescribed to help overcome cravings.
If recommended to reduce symptoms and improve your mood, your therapist will work with our psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP) to prescribe an appropriate medication as part of a unique program that works for you.
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If you are in a crisis or if anyone else may be in danger, do not use this site.
For a medical emergency, call 911, or use our Emergency Resources for immediate help.
