Substance Use Disorder

What is substance use disorder?

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Substance use disorder is a psychiatric condition that involves relying on a mind-altering drug or substance. While some substance use disorders arise from using certain prescribed medications like opioids, many involve using illicit drugs. 

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Starting with a detailed mental health evaluation, Clearpoint Mental Health Services can assess your substance use and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. You might need treatment for the compulsive use of:

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• Opioids

• Cocaine

• Alcohol

• Nicotine

• Marijuana

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Mekedes provides maintenance services for substance use disorder treatment, including long-term medication management and follow-ups. 

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What are the most common signs of substance use disorder?

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The signs of substance use disorder can vary based on the type of substance you use. Some drugs cause you to slur your words, for example, while others do not. However, some key signs apply to almost any substance use disorder.  

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You and the people around you might notice signs such as:

• Trouble staying on track with personal or professional responsibilities

• The inability to stop using your substance of choice

• Problems in your relationships

• Withdrawal symptoms

• Hiding your use of a given substance

• Developing a high tolerance for the substance

• Experiencing physical or psychological consequences from using the substance

• Social withdrawal

• Risky or impulsive behaviors

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Mekedes performs a detailed evaluation of your behaviors around using a particular substance and can tell you whether or not you’ll benefit from treatment for substance use disorder. 

 

How is substance use disorder treated?

 

Treating substance use disorder can involve long-term care using multiple modes of treatment. Some substance use disorders benefit from taking certain medications — a method called medication-assisted treatment. Mekedes can manage any medications you take to address your substance use disorder while supporting you with other recommendations for care. 

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You might also benefit from counseling or psychotherapy. Certain types, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can increase your control over your drug use and help you manage its other effects on your mental health, such as depression or anxiety.

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Don’t delay in getting the help you need. Call Clearpoint Mental Health Services or schedule your appointment online for substance use disorder care today.

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