Addiction and Substance Use Disorder
Addiction and Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequence. People with SUD have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s) (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs) to the point where the person’s ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. People keep using the substance even when they know it is causing or will cause problems. The most severe SUDs are sometimes called addictions.
People can develop an addiction to:
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Alcohol
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Marijuana
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PCP, LSD and other hallucinogens
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Inhalants, such as, paint thinners and glue
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Opioid pain killers, such as codeine and oxycodone, heroin
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Sedatives, hypnotics and anxiolytics (medicines for anxiety such as tranquilizers)
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Cocaine, methamphetamine and other stimulants
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Tobacco
Repeated substance use can cause changes in how the brain functions. These changes can last long after the immediate effects of the substance wears off, or in other words, after the period of intoxication. Intoxication is the intense pleasure, euphoria, calm, increased perception and sense, and other feelings that are caused by the substance. Intoxication symptoms are different for each substance.
When someone has a substance use disorder, they usually build up a tolerance to the substance, meaning they need larger amounts to feel the effects.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people begin taking drugs for a variety of reasons, including:
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to feel good — feeling of pleasure, “high” or "intoxication"
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to feel better — relieve stress, forget problems, or feel numb
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to do better — improve performance or thinking
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curiosity and peer pressure or experimenting
In addition to substances, people can also develop addiction to behaviors, such as gambling or sex.
People with substance use and behavioral addictions may be aware of their problem but not be able to stop even if they want and try to. The addiction may cause physical and psychological problems as well as interpersonal problems such as with family members and friends or at work. Alcohol and drug use is one of the leading causes of preventable illnesses and premature death nationwide.
Symptoms of substance use disorder are grouped into four categories:
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Impaired control: a craving or strong urge to use the substance; desire or failed attempts to cut down or control substance use
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Social problems: substance use causes failure to complete major tasks at work, school or home; social, work or leisure activities are given up or cut back because of substance use
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Risky use: substance is used in risky settings; continued use despite known problems
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Drug effects: tolerance (need for larger amounts to get the same effect); withdrawal symptoms (different for each substance)
Many people experience substance use disorder along with another psychiatric disorder. Oftentimes another psychiatric disorder precedes substance use disorder, or the use of a substance may trigger or worsen another psychiatric disorder.
Treatment Options
For many, the first step toward recovery is acknowledging their personal struggle with substance dependence. The next step is finding a treatment program that can help restore their overall health, well-being, and happiness. Led by Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Katrina Verdon, South Florida Counseling and Assessment specializes in outpatient recovery of addiction. While we do not offer all options for addiction treatment, we believe that providing you with all the information to make an informed decision is critical to your recovery.
There are countless treatment options to choose from. For example, some people with severe forms of addiction enter a detox program before transitioning into rehab. Others may choose to begin recovery at an inpatient or outpatient facility. After treatment, it is recommended to continue reinforcing the lessons learned in rehab by attending support groups and therapy sessions. A diagnostic evaluation with Dr. Verdon can provide you with recommendations related to the appropriate level of care and information about treatment options.
Remember: there is no such thing as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to addiction recovery. Whichever treatment path you choose, be sure that it meets your needs to help you achieve a successful recovery.
Recovering from an addiction isn’t easy!
It takes a significant amount of willpower and self-discipline to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. Your recovery from an addiction is dependent on how much you put into the process and the right support system. We are here to empower you and support you during your recovery.
Learn More
Types of Programs and Treatments
Therapy Approaches to Addiction