Top Signs Someone May Be Struggling With Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic disorder that influences the brain, behavior, and general wellness of a person. Most individuals are unaware of the initial symptoms until the condition deteriorates, which is why it is important to get to know what SUD is like. Whether it is you or a loved one, it is better to know the symptoms and signs so that you can take the necessary action early enough and seek the necessary support.

What is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder is a long-term ailment in which an individual loses control in his consumption of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs. SUD affects everyday life, psychological well-being, physical and social well-being. The substances change the brain chemistry with time, and it is difficult to quit without seeking professional assistance.

SUD can be mild to severe and early detection is a determinant of a successful recovery.

What are the Types of Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder may refer to a plethora of substances, which include:

1. Alcohol Use Disorder

A drinking habit where the individual becomes dependent, gets withdrawal symptoms and can no longer cope with life.

2. Opioid Use Disorder

Prescription pain medications, heroin or synthetic opioids are involved. It can result in addiction, desire and risky withdrawal.

3. Stimulant Use Disorder

Examples of common stimulants are cocaine, methamphetamine and ADHD drugs. These are substances which overover stimulate the brain causing too high and too low.

4. Sedative or Anti-Anxiety Medication Use Disorder

Sleep medications and benzodiazepines are addictive, can lead to memory loss, and are extremely addictive.

5. Cannabis Use Disorder

Although cannabis is a common substance, dependence and functional impairment may be experienced when it is used heavily or on a long-term basis.

6. Hallucinogen Use Disorder

Has LSD, PCP, and other drugs of this kind, which distort perception and may cause risky behavior.

What Are the Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?

Symptoms are internal experiences which a person may experience. Common SUD symptoms include:

• Craving of drugs or alcohol.

• Control loss, overusing intended.

• Tolerance, which requires more to experience the same effects.

• Sweating, anxieties, shaking, nausea or irritability commonly occur as withdrawal effects.

• Changes in the mental health, such as anxiety, depression or mood swings.

• Hard to quit, even when making an attempt to reduce.

• Compulsive thoughts concerning acquiring or consuming drugs.

Such symptoms tend to accumulate and they can become more pronounced as the disorder advances.

What Are the Signs of a Substance Use Disorder?

The external behaviors that can be seen by others are signs. Common signs include:

• Alterations in the body like loss of weight, bad hygiene, bloodshot eyes.

• Inattention to duties at work place, school or home.

• Quitting relationships or friends.

• Clovert actions, deception or undercoverness.

• Unexpected financial problem or unknown necessity of money

• High-risk behaviors, such as drunk driving.

• Loss of performance or motivation

• In personal spaces, drug paraphernalia is discovered.

• Often, inexplicable diseases or accidents.

The early detection of these signs is beneficial to curb the escalation and aids in early intervention.

How Is Substance Use Disorder Treated?

Therapy to SUD is individual and can include:

Medical Detox

Many people are on the first stage, detox, which removes the withdrawal in a safe environment with the help of specialists.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Drugs are used to normalize the brain chemistry and to lessen the desire to use substances such as opioids or alcohol.

Therapy and Counseling

The underlying causes are addressed with the help of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), individual counseling, trauma-informed therapy, and family therapy, which contributes to a long-term recovery.

Outpatient or Residential Programs

The degrees of care will be based on the severity of the SUD and the needs of an individual.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

 Continuing help means permanent recovery and learning of coping skills in daily living.

Conclusion

Anyone may become addicted to substance use, yet the sooner someone becomes aware of it, the better. Knowledge of the signs and symptoms enables you to be proactive to the recovery. In case you or a loved one is being challenged, help can be found and be efficient.

Call the Contact Solutions Healthcare today (386) 866-3600 and receive caring confidential help and begin the recovery journey.