Substance use disorder (SUD) can affect a person’s physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, and ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Professional psychiatric care can help individuals understand the factors contributing to problematic substance use and develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs. The team at American Psychiatric Care in Bel Air, Silver Spring, and Perry Hall, Maryland, provides compassionate, individualized support for people experiencing substance use and related mental health concerns. To learn more or seek treatment for SUD, call the nearest office or request an appointment online today.
Substance use disorder is a medical condition involving the continued use of alcohol or drugs despite negative effects on a person’s health, relationships, responsibilities, or daily functioning. SUD can involve substances such as alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, sedatives, or other drugs. The severity of the disorder can vary from mild to severe, and a person does not need to use a substance every day to have a substance use disorder.
A psychiatric evaluation can help determine whether substance use has become problematic and whether additional mental health conditions may be present. Early assessment can provide an opportunity to address concerns before they become more disruptive.
Signs of substance use disorder can differ depending on the substance and the individual. Common warning signs include difficulty controlling or reducing substance use, spending significant time obtaining or using substances, experiencing cravings, and continuing to use despite physical, emotional, social, or occupational problems. Changes in sleep, appetite, mood, motivation, relationships, work performance, or appearance may also occur.
Some individuals may attempt to hide their substance use or minimize its effects. A psychiatric evaluation can provide a confidential setting to discuss substance use without judgment.
Substance use and mental health are closely connected. Alcohol and drugs can contribute to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, paranoia, mood changes, or problems with concentration. At the same time, individuals experiencing mental health concerns may use substances in an attempt to cope with difficult emotions or symptoms. Stress, trauma, genetics, and other underlying factors can also contribute to both conditions.
When substance use disorder occurs alongside a mental health condition, treating both concerns can be important. Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other psychiatric disorders may occur alongside SUD. Integrated treatment can address substance use and mental health symptoms together.
Treatment for substance use disorder depends on the substance involved, severity of symptoms, medical history, psychiatric needs, and individual goals. Treatment may include psychiatric care, psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, medication management, peer support, or referral to a higher level of care when appropriate.
Certain medications are available for alcohol and opioid use disorders. For example, medications such as naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram may be used for alcohol use disorder, while buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are approved options for opioid use disorder. Counseling and behavioral therapies may be incorporated alongside medication when appropriate.
For individuals seeking help with substance use disorder, call American Psychiatric Care or request an appointment online today.