Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is characterized by compulsive use of substances, often leading to impairment in daily functioning.
Individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug, and continued use can lead to tolerance and dependence. Some people who abuse substances also develop physical health issues related to their addiction. These include liver disease, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and respiratory diseases. Treatment for SUD includes counseling, medication management, and support groups.
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) refers to an individual who experiences problems controlling his/her drug use. These individuals often experience craving, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and relapse after periods of abstinence. SUDs can lead to physical health issues such as liver disease, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure. In addition, SUDs can also affect mental health including depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts.
It’s serious and changes your brain
Repeated substance use may cause changes in how the brain functions. These changes can last longer than the immediate effects of the substances as they wear off, or in other words, after the period of intoxication. Intoxication is an intense pleasure, euphoria and calmness that comes from taking a substance. Intoxication is different for every substance.
When someone has a drug addiction, they usually build up a tolerance to the drug, meaning they need larger doses to get high.
Substance abuse can lead to serious health issues and life-threatening situations. Addiction can also affect your relationships with others and your job performance. When someone suffers from an addiction, he or she needs help to overcome the disease. A person who wants to recover from substance abuse should seek treatment immediately.
Treatment is the key
Substance abuse and behavioral addictions can be difficult to recognize because people often do not know what they are doing is wrong. They may also feel ashamed about their behavior and think no one else knows about it. Addicts may also believe that they cannot control themselves without drugs or alcohol. In reality, however, addicts can learn how to manage their behaviors and avoid relapse.
The first step is recognizing the problem. Recovery can be delayed if someone lacks awareness of their drug abuse. Friends and family may encourage treatment, but self-referrals should always be welcomed and encouraged.
A medical professional should formally assess symptoms to determine if a substance use disorder exists. Treatment is beneficial for everyone, regardless of severity. However, many people who meet diagnostic criteria for a substance use problem do not seek treatment.
