Recovery Program

What is substance abuse disorder?

Substance abuse disorder is a behavioral health condition characterized by the uncontrolled use of a drug or substance. Whether the drug is legal or illegal, many drugs have addictive properties that make it exceedingly difficult to stop using them. 

Many substances alter your brain chemistry, which leads to cravings when you’re not using the substance. When you attempt to stop using them on your own, it’s common to experience symptoms of withdrawal that make stopping especially challenging. 

It’s common for substance abuse disorder to co-occur with other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 

While one may not necessarily cause the other, Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Services, PLLC, provides simultaneous treatment for your substance abuse disorder and any other conditions. 

Which substances are commonly abused in substance abuse disorder?

Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Services, PLLC, provides careful management and professional support for many types of substance abuse. While you can develop a dependency on drugs and substances of many kinds, some of the most prevalent are:

• Marijuana
• Methamphetamine
• Nicotine
• Narcotics and opioids
• Cocaine
• Alcohol 

It’s not always clear to see substance abuse tendencies in yourself, but others may take note of your changing behaviors due to substance use. 

While these drugs affect you in different ways, some common signs of substance abuse disorder include new financial difficulties, engaging in risky behaviors and decision-making, and failing to stop using the drug. 

How is substance abuse disorder treated?

At Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Services, PLLC, Hazel manages substance abuse disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions with individualized and supportive care. Several evidence-based treatment strategies can help curb substance use tendencies, including:

Medication-assisted treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) works in many cases of substance abuse disorder, particularly for opioids and alcohol. Certain medications help with relieving withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings. Some also block the chemical effects of the substance. 

Counseling

Counseling in an individual or group setting can help treat substance abuse either by itself or with medications. Through therapy, you can learn coping skills that help you change your behaviors. 

Residential treatment

Some individuals managing substance abuse disorder benefit from an inpatient program, which includes education, counseling, support groups, and medication management. 

To find out more about substance abuse disorder management, call Bridge the Gap Addiction and Mental Health Services, PLLC, or book an appointment online today.