What is Substance Use Disorders?

Substance use disorders (SUDs), commonly called addictions, are chronic medical conditions characterized by problematic patterns of substance use that lead to significant impairment or distress. SUDs can involve the use of various substances, including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, tobacco, and others. These disorders range from mild to severe, with addiction representing the most serious form. Addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower—it's a complex brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite negative consequences. SUDs affect brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control, which can lead to intense cravings and difficulty abstaining from substance use.

Common Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of substance use disorders vary depending on the substance, but generally include the following:

• Using larger amounts of the substance or using it over a longer period than intended
• Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use
• Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance
• Craving or strong urge to use the substance
• Failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home due to substance use
• Continuing to use despite persistent social or interpersonal problems caused by substance use
• Giving up important occupational, social, or recreational activities because of substance use
• Using the substance in physically hazardous situations
• Continuing to use despite knowledge of a physical or psychological problem likely caused by the substance
• Tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the desired effect)
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
• Physical signs may include changes in appetite, weight loss or gain, deterioration of physical appearance, unusual smells on breath or clothes, impaired coordination, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, enlarged or small pupils
• Behavioral signs may include financial problems, secretive or suspicious behavior, sudden changes in friends or activities, unexplained absences, legal issues related to substance use

Causes and Risk Factors

Substance use disorders develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors. Risk factors include genetic predisposition (family history of SUDs), early exposure to substances, trauma or adverse childhood experiences, mental health disorders, peer pressure, lack of family involvement, and high levels of stress. The initial decision to use substances is typically voluntary, but repeated use can lead to brain changes that challenge an addicted person's self-control and ability to resist intense urges to use substances.

Common Treatment Approaches

Substance use disorders are treatable, and recovery is possible. Treatment approaches vary depending on the specific substance and the individual's needs but often include a combination of the following:

Self-Care Strategies

Self-care strategies can support recovery from substance use disorders:

• Engage in regular physical activity and maintain a healthy diet
• Develop healthy sleep habits
• Practice stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
• Build a strong support network of friends, family, and peers in recovery
• Attend support group meetings regularly
• Identify and avoid triggers for substance use
• Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, cravings, and negative emotions
• Set realistic goals and celebrate achievements in recovery
• Find meaningful activities that don't involve substance use
• Seek help promptly if experiencing a relapse or increased cravings

When to Seek Professional Help

• Approximately 20.4 million people in the U.S. aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder in 2019.
• Of those, 14.5 million had an alcohol use disorder, 8.3 million had an illicit drug use disorder, and 2.4 million had both.
• Only about 10% of people with a substance use disorder receive treatment.
• Relapse rates for substance use disorders are similar to those for other chronic medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension (40-60%).
• Recovery is possible, and many people recover from substance use disorders and lead healthy, productive lives.

• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• PTSD
• Bipolar Disorder

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