Substance Use Disorders

About Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders are chronic, treatable medical conditions affecting millions of Americans. Whether the concern is alcohol, opioids, stimulants, or other substances, effective evidence-based treatments exist. Recovery is possible, and asking for help is a sign of strength.

Signs you may benefit from specialized care

• Using substances more often or in larger amounts than intended
• Spending significant time obtaining
• using
• or recovering from substance use
• Continuing to use despite negative consequences at work
• home
• or in relationships
• Developing tolerance and needing more of a substance to feel the same effects
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop

Evidence-based treatment approaches

Providers specializing in Substance Use Disorders may use one or more of the following evidence-based approaches:

What to know before you search

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combining medication with counseling is the gold standard for opioid use disorder, significantly reducing overdose risk and supporting long-term recovery.