Substance Use Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview
What is a Substance Use Disorder?
A substance use disorder (SUD) is a condition where a person has difficulty controlling their use of drugs or alcohol. It’s a serious health issue that can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. In 2022, more than 48 million people aged 12 or older struggled with a substance use disorder.1
- Suffering relationships
- Neglecting responsibilities at work or school
- Legal issues
How are Substance Use Disorders Classified?
Substance use disorders are classified based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The classification helps in understanding the severity and specific characteristics of different disorders.2
- Pharmacological criteria such as tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
- The presence of impaired control over substance use
- Social impairment
- Risky use
Substance Categories
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Stimulants
- Sedatives
- Tobacco
- Hallucinogens
- Cannabis
Severity Levels
Comorbidity
- Mood disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Personality disorders
Withdrawal Symptoms
Many substances can lead to withdrawal symptoms when their use is abruptly reduced. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe physical and psychological distress.
Risk Factors for Developing Substance Use Disorders
Genetics and Family History
Environmental Factors
- Peer pressure
- Exposure to substance use
- Negative life events
Childhood Adversity
- Neglect
- Abuse
- Household dysfunction
How Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Can Lead to SUD and Mental Health Challenges
Personal Factors
- A lack of self-control
- Impulsivity
- Sensation-seeking behavior
- A tendency to take risks
Socioeconomic Factors
- Low income
- Unemployment
- Limited educational opportunities
Early Substance Use
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorders
Changes in Appearance
- Bloodshot eyes
- Dilated or constricted pupils
- Poor hygiene
- Skin problems
Changes in Appetite
Poor Coordination and Motor Control
Mood Swings
- Irritability
- Anger
- Sadness
- Euphoria
Anxiety and Depression
Substance misuse often leads to the development of anxiety and depression symptoms. These may include:
- Persistent worry
- Restlessness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Emotional Instability
Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts
Neglecting Responsibilities
Loss of Interest in Hobbies
Financial Problems
Social Isolation
What Substances Most Commonly Lead to SUD?
Opioids
- Oxycodone
- Vicodin
- Fentanyl
Alcohol
Benzodiazepines
- Xanax
- Valium
- Ativan
Methamphetamine
Marijuana (Cannabis)
Nicotine
Nicotine Addiction and Withdrawal
Cocaine
Hallucinogens
How Common is SUD in the U.S.?
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Drug Use Disorder (DUD)
Co-Occurrence of AUD and DUD
Mental Illness
Serious Thoughts of Suicide
How Common is SUD in Texas?
Why are Substance Use Disorders so Common?
Cultural Influences
Lack of Education and Awareness
Availability and Accessibility
Use of Prescription Drugs
Marketing and Advertising
Treatment Programs for Substance Use Disorders
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
The PHP at Continuum Outpatient Center is a highly structured treatment program. It combines intensive therapy and support with the flexibility of returning home in the evenings. This program is designed for people who may not need 24/7 supervision but still need a high level of care.
Participants attend therapy sessions and group activities during the day. They often stay for six to eight hours, then return home at night. The PHP provides a structured environment for them to address their substance use disorders. In addition, they can maintain their personal responsibilities and relationships.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
The IOP offered at Continuum Outpatient Center is a step-down program from the PHP. This program provides a comprehensive treatment experience while allowing participants to continue with their daily routines and responsibilities.
The IOP offers a combination of individual therapy, group counseling, and educational sessions. The aim is to focus on relapse prevention, coping skills, and addiction recovery. Those attending the IOP often attend sessions for 3-4 hours multiple times a week.
This provides ongoing support and guidance throughout their recovery journey.
Drug Rehab Aftercare
Therapeutic Interventions Used to Treat Substance Use Disorders
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Emotional regulation
- Effective communication
- Distress tolerance
- Mindfulness
What is DBT?: A Closer Look
Experiential Therapy
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Meditation
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapy
Many people with substance use disorders also have symptoms of PTSD. Specialized therapy for PTSD can help them heal from traumatic experiences.
These therapies address the underlying trauma that often contributes to substance use. They provide people with the tools to process and manage their traumatic memories, thus mitigating the need for substance misuse as an unhealthy coping mechanism.
What to Expect From SUD Treatment
Assessment and Evaluation
Individualized Treatment Plan
- Detoxification
- MAT
- Counseling
- Other assistance
Detoxification
Therapy and Counseling
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
Education and Skill Building
- Addiction
- How to prevent relapse
- Developing important life skills
Supportive Services
Continued Care and Aftercare
- Outpatient therapy
- Programs to help prevent relapse
- Weekly alumni meetings
How Can Continuum Outpatient Center Help?
Tailored Treatment Plans
Relapse Prevention Strategies
Preventing relapse is crucial in the recovery journey. At Continuum Outpatient Center, we equip people with skills to maintain sobriety. Through educational sessions, coping mechanisms, and relapse prevention planning, they learn how to handle triggers and challenges in their daily lives.
Holistic Approach
We understand that substance use disorders affect various aspects of a person’s life. Therefore, we take a holistic approach to treatment at our center.
We address physical, mental, and emotional well-being through integrated care. We also offer complementary therapies like yoga and mindfulness practices to support overall healing and well-being.
Family Involvement and Support
Begin Your Recovery from Substance Use Disorders With Continuum Outpatient Center
Resources
- https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20231113/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-nsduh-data
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5039518/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5911369/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871621000582
- https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma16-4935.pdf
- https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/data/index.html#:~:text=The%20Drug%20Overdose%20Epidemic%3A%20Behind,1999%20from%20a%20drug%20overdose.&text=More%20than%2075%25%20of%20drug,in%202021%20involved%20an%20opioid.&text=Opioids%20are%20substances%20that%20work,reduce%20the%20intensity%20of%20pain
- https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates
- https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/data-statistics.htm
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/806271/past-year-cocaine-use-us-adults/
- https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20231113/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-nsduh-data
- https://www.kff.org/statedata/mental-health-and-substance-use-state-fact-sheets/texas/