Navigating Substance Use Disorders

Substance use can begin as a way to cope with life's challenges or escape from painful emotions, but for many, it evolves into a pattern of dependency. The impact of substance use on both physical and mental health is far-reaching, affecting not only the person struggling but also their families, relationships, and communities. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, you’re not alone: 48.5 million Americans over the age of 12 – that’s about 1 in 6 – had a substance use disorder in 2023.  

The reality check

Substance use disorder is one of the most common mental health challenges, and it often occurs alongside other mental health struggles. 40-60% of people struggling with SUD also experience co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

Substance use becomes problematic when it leads to dependency, addiction, or negative consequences in a person’s daily life. Anyone can develop a substance use disorder – from corporate leaders to high-power surgeons to people who just seem to do everything ‘right.’

What substance use disorders really feel like

When you have a substance use disorder, it impacts all aspects of your life. 

Symptoms include:

• Constant cravings for your substance of choice and frequent, intense urges to use the substance 

• A constant emotional tug of war, where one part of you wants to quit, but another part is caught in the grip of craving, convincing you that you need it to feel better

• A physical dependency that leads to painful withdrawal symptoms, creating an internal crisis where the body and mind begin to crave the substance more intensely

• An emotional rollercoaster with highs that feel like moments of relief, followed by crushing lows

• Deep internal feelings of shame or guilt, which can often isolate you from loved ones

• Unpredictable mood swings resulting in feelings of irritability, depression, anxiety, and anger

• A loss of control and feelings of self-sabotage that impact your self-esteem and make it feel impossible to change

• An increase in reckless or risky behaviors that leave you in unsafe situations 

Solutions that work

Substance use can leave you feeling powerless, but it’s treatable with the right support. Here are science-backed suggestions that make a difference:

1. Therapy that gets results. Psychotherapy, or ‘talk therapy,’ is a standard form of treatment that will help you set clear goals for treatment. Common treatments for substance use disorders include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a common modality that helps you reframe negative thought patterns, motivational interviewing (MI), an approach that helps you explore and resolve ambivalence toward quitting, and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), which helps to manage feelings and triggers that lead to substance use.

2. Medical treatment when it makes sense. When your body becomes dependent on substances, medical treatment may be an important component of your care plan. Programs like medically-assisted detox and medication-assisted treatment ensure the body is weaned off the substance safely. Other programs might include inpatient rehabilitation or outpatient treatment to support your recovery. A good care provider will help you choose the treatment that works for you.

3. Life changes that matter. Changing small habits in your lifestyle – like developing a new hobby or activity, prioritizing food, exercise, and sleep, and focusing on your personal goals – can help you regain control. Developing a new routine can help you avoid situations where you might normally use, making it easier to stay on the path to recovery.

4. Strategic support. Substance use disorder can be isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your journey is crucial. Whether through support groups, therapy, or family involvement, a strong support network can provide accountability and encouragement. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), for example, provide ongoing support through regular meetings where individuals in recovery share their experiences, challenges, and victories.

Taking action

Overcoming substance use disorder takes hard work, but recovery is possible. No matter how difficult it may seem, there is always hope, and there are always pathways to healing. With the right support, therapies, and lifestyle changes, you can regain control over your life and build a future free from the grip of substances.

Ready for change? Find substance use disorder support now