Substance Use Disorder
About Substance Use Disorder
What is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance Use Disorder is a medical diagnosis that reflects more than occasional use or experimentation with drugs or alcohol. It’s defined by:
- Loss of control over substance use
- Intense cravings
- Increasing tolerance needing more to achieve the same effect
- Physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms
- Continued use despite clear harm to health, work, or relationships
SUD occurs on a spectrum, from mild to severe, and affects individuals from all walks of life.
Common Substances Linked to SUD
Alcohol
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is one of the most prevalent forms of SUD, often developing gradually from casual drinking to physical dependence. Alcohol misuse is closely linked to depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
Prescription Medications
Prescription misuse can start with legitimate use and lead to dependence, especially with opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants often tied to untreated mental health symptoms.
Illicit Substances
Substance use can involve stimulants for ADHD or depression, opioids for pain, or heavy marijuana use, sometimes worsening mental health with paranoia, motivation loss, or mood instability.
What Causes Substance Use Disorder?
SUD rarely has a single cause it’s the result of biological, psychological, and environmental factors interacting over time. Key contributors include:
Genetics & Family History
Individuals with a family history of substance use face a higher genetic risk.
Mental Health Conditions
Co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD can increase vulnerability, leading some to use substances to cope with intense emotions.
Trauma & Stress
Childhood trauma or chronic stress in work or relationships can increase lifelong risk, often driving unhealthy coping behaviors.
Social & Environmental Factors
Peer pressure, easy access, or high stress careers increase risk especially without supportive relationships or healthy coping strategies.
How is Substance Use Disorder Diagnosed?
Comprehensive Assessment
Diagnosis starts with a full review of substance use, mental health, physical health, relationships, and triggers.
Diagnostic Criteria
Providers use DSM-5 criteria to classify SUD as mild, moderate, or severe based on symptoms.
Identifying Co-Occurring Disorders
A dual diagnosis evaluation ensures any underlying mental health disorders like depression, PTSD, or ADHD are identified and addressed simultaneously.
Other Services
You Need to Understand That Mental Anxiety Can be Discussed
Start Your Journey to Mental Wellness
At SolCare Clinic, your mental health is our mission. Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, a second opinion, medication management, or holistic support, we are here to help you build a healthier, happier life.