Substance Abuse Q & A

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What is substance abuse?

 

Substance abuse, or substance misuse, is a condition in which you become addicted to harmful substances — such as addictive pain medications, illicit drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. You might be unable to stop using such substances despite wanting to and knowing they’re causing harm. Fortunately, the experts at Restoring Foundations Psychiatric Counseling Center can help.

 

What are the symptoms of substance abuse?

 

The hallmark signs and symptoms of substance abuse include:

• Being high frequently

• Inability to stop using harmful substances

• Cravings for addictive substances

• Using more and more of a substance 

• Withdrawal symptoms when quitting

• Poor decision making

• Frequent accidents

• Poor work or job performance

• Financial challenges

• Irritability or mood swings

• Relationship issues

• Legal troubles

• Physical health issues

• Memory issues 

• Depression

• Anxiety

With the right treatment plan in place, you can overcome substance abuse and live life to its fullest.

 

What are the risk factors for substance abuse?

 

Anyone can experience substance abuse. Common risk factors include trying highly addictive substances, peer pressure, using addictive substances at an early age, and a family history of substance misuse. Your risk might also increase due to depression, anxiety, trauma, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

 

How does my specialist diagnose substance abuse?

 

Diagnosing substance abuse often involves a review of your physical and mental health histories, lifestyle habits, medications, family history of mental health problems, and a psychiatric evaluation. During the evaluation, your specialist discusses your emotions, past trauma, mood, thoughts, behaviors, and symptoms. They customize a treatment just for you.

 

How is substance abuse treated?

 

Treating substance abuse may include one or more of the following treatments:

• Individualized therapy

• Family counseling

• Couples therapy

• Group therapy

• Medication management

• Lifestyle changes

Taking certain medications can help curb cravings for addictive substances and lessen withdrawal symptoms upon quitting. Other medications treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions linked to substance misuse.

 

It’s also important to have a strong social support network in place, eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, minimize stress, and avoid people or situations that encourage substance use. Follow up with your Restoring Foundations Psychiatric Counseling Center specialist routinely for therapy and medication management.

 

To overcome substance abuse, schedule an evaluation at Restoring Foundations Psychiatric Counseling Center by phone or online today.