Understanding substance use disorders
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition characterized by an uncontrolled pattern of using a substance despite harmful consequences. It involves changes to the brain's reward, motivation, and memory circuits — which is why willpower alone is rarely sufficient for sustained recovery.
SUDs exist on a spectrum from mild to severe. They affect people of all backgrounds, ages, and socioeconomic circumstances. Effective, evidence-based treatments exist for every type of substance use disorder, and recovery is achievable at any stage.
Types of substance use disorders
- Alcohol use disorder (AUD) — affects 28 million[1] Americans
- Opioid use disorder (OUD) — including prescription opioids and heroin
- Stimulant use disorder — cocaine, methamphetamine
- Cannabis use disorder
- Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder — including benzodiazepines
- Tobacco/nicotine use disorder
Evidence-based treatment
Effective treatment for SUD typically involves a combination of medication (where available), behavioral therapy, and peer support. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved[3] medications with counseling — it's the gold standard for opioid and alcohol use disorders.
The path to finding help
Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Levels of care range from outpatient counseling to intensive outpatient programs (IOP), partial hospitalization (PHP), residential treatment, and medical detox. A qualified addiction counselor can help match you to the right level of care based on your specific situation.
For family members
Living with or loving someone with a substance use disorder is deeply difficult. Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, and SMART Recovery Family & Friends offer support specifically for family members. Family therapy and intervention specialists can also provide guidance.