A Substance Use Disorder is a medical condition where a person cannot control their use of drugs or alcohol despite harmful consequences.
Early signs include increased tolerance, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, risky behaviors, and difficulty cutting down.
SUDs develop from genetics, trauma, stress, mental health disorders, environmental factors, and changes in brain chemistry.
A licensed mental health provider or medical professional uses clinical criteria from the DSM-5 to assess severity and symptoms.
Alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, prescription medications, cannabis, hallucinogens, and illicit drugs.
Yes. With evidence-based treatment, therapy, medication (when needed), and long-term support, recovery is absolutely possible.
A personalized plan that may include detox, inpatient or outpatient rehab, therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and aftercare support.
MAT uses FDA-approved medications like Suboxone, Methadone, or Vivitrol to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
Dual-diagnosis treatment addresses addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression simultaneously.
Rehab is recommended when substance use affects daily functioning, relationships, health, safety, or when attempts to quit have failed.
CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed therapy, group therapy, and family counseling are commonly used.
Yes. Untreated SUDs can lead to organ damage, mental health decline, overdose, and chronic health conditions.
Treatment varies depending on severity—some programs last 30 days, while others may span 60–90 days or longer.
Relapse can happen but does not mean failure. It's a sign that the treatment plan needs adjustment or additional support.
Offer compassion, avoid enabling, encourage treatment, set healthy boundaries, and participate in family therapy when appropriate.