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Substance Use Disorder

In the arena of drug and alcohol abuse, how does a phrase like "substance use disorder" fit into the picture? While the average person may simply use the word "addiction," medical professionals may choose more exact terms, depending on the substance that's involved. From a diagnostic standpoint, "disorder" replaces "abuse" and "dependence" in many circles. Whichever term you use, however, the damaging effects are the same.

man falling victim to a substance use disorder

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

When most people think of addiction, they associate it with illicit substances, such as heroin or cocaine. They may not even consider alcohol and tobacco as harmful substances that can result in dependency and addiction. However, those two substances can also lead to substance use disorder.

Caffeine is another substance that people grow dependent on. If they don't have their morning cup of joe, they can definitely feel the physical effects. When someone consumes too much caffeine, he'll feel nervous and restless. He may have stomach upset and cardiac disturbances.

Just like addiction, substance use disorder has distinct features. While caffeine addiction may not result in the same types of negative consequences that come from opioid addiction, regular coffee drinkers will suffer withdrawal symptoms if they don't get their regular dose one day.

There are ten substance use disorders, including:

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Opioid use disorder
  • Stimulant use disorder
  • Sedative use disorder
  • Inhalant use disorder
  • Hallucinogen use disorder

The others involve caffeine, cannabis, tobacco, and unknown substances.

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

Addiction specialists diagnose people for substance use disorder based on social impairment, risky use, impaired control, and certain pharmacological criteria.

If you're simply trying to figure out if you or a loved one has a problem with drugs and alcohol, you'll notice varying levels of symptoms.

Do you find yourself always thinking about the drug? Have you had to increase the amount you take to feel the same effects? Are you often overwhelmed by cravings for the drug?

If you're concerned about someone close to you, you may notice she's having financial difficulties due to spending all available funds on her supply. She may resort to stealing from friends or family members. Alternatively, her appearance may be noticeably different.

An inability to control using is another indication of a problem. You want to stop because on some level you recognize the damage drugs and alcohol are doing. Yet, every time you stop using for a day or two, you eventually go back to it. This is despite serious work or family problems.

Although not everyone will suffer from the same issues, anyone struggling with addiction will benefit from drug and alcohol rehab.

Transformative Addiction Treatment

You don't have to stay stuck in a cycle of using, quitting, and relapsing. The right addiction treatment can help you get your life back on track. San Antonio Recovery Center provides an array of Texas addiction rehab programs for men and women looking for affordable treatment.

Our programs include:

We base treatment on the 12-step philosophy, with an emphasis on providing individualized care that meets your physical, emotional, spiritual, and medical needs.

You don't have to keep making the same mistakes that led to your substance use disorder. The dedicated team at San Antonio Recovery Center can show you a better way to live. Reach out to us today at 866-957-7885, and we'll start you on the road to lasting recovery.

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