Substance Use Disorder

Understanding Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

A Compassionate, Evidence-Based Approach at Global Behavioral Healthcare

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)—commonly referred to as addiction—is a chronic and treatable mental health condition that alters brain function and behavior. It affects a person’s ability to control the use of substances such as alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs, even in the face of negative consequences. In 2022 alone, nearly 50 million individuals aged 12 or older in the U.S. experienced SUD.

At Global Behavioral Healthcare, we offer individualized, stigma-free care for individuals struggling with substance use. Our integrated treatment plans support the physical, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.

Commonly Misused Substances

The DSM-5 outlines ten substance categories associated with SUD:

• Alcohol

• Caffeine

• Cannabis

• Hallucinogens (e.g., PCP, MDMA, ketamine)

• Inhalants (e.g., aerosols, solvents, nitrites)

• Opioids (e.g., heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone)

• Sedatives, Hypnotics, Anxiolytics (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates)

• Stimulants (e.g., methamphetamine, cocaine, ADHD medications)

• Tobacco (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco)

• Other Substances (e.g., kratom, synthetic cannabinoids, designer drugs)

It’s not uncommon for individuals to misuse more than one substance, sometimes leading to multiple diagnoses.

Why Do People Use Substances?

Substance use often stems from complex psychological, environmental, and biological factors. Common motivations include:

• Self-Medication: To cope with stress, trauma, chronic pain, or underlying mental health issues

• Peer Influence or Curiosity: Especially during adolescence and early adulthood

• Accidental Dependency: Often develops through misuse of prescription medications

• Perceived Enhancement: To boost focus, performance, or energy—often without clinical oversight

Recognizing the Signs of SUD

In Yourself:

• Cravings or compulsive use

• Needing more to feel the same effect (tolerance)

• Using substances daily or multiple times per day

• Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to quit

• Withdrawal symptoms (e.g., anxiety, tremors, nausea)

• Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or self-care

In Someone You Know:

• Sudden mood changes or irritability

• Social withdrawal or isolation

• Unexplained financial problems

• Physical changes (e.g., red eyes, tremors, weight fluctuations)

• Risky or erratic behavior

• Prioritizing substance use above all else

How Is SUD Diagnosed?

At Global Behavioral Healthcare, our licensed clinicians perform comprehensive evaluations that include:

• A full review of medical, psychiatric, and substance use history

• Application of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria focused on:

  • Impaired Control

  • Social Impairment

  • Risky Use

  • Physical Dependence (tolerance and withdrawal)

• Lab testing when needed

• Screening for co-occurring mental health conditions

Contributing Factors to SUD

No single cause leads to SUD. However, several risk factors may increase vulnerability:

• Co-occurring mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD)

• Family history of addiction

• Early or repeated exposure to substance use

• Chronic physical pain

• History of trauma, neglect, or unstable home environments

Importantly, SUD can develop with or without known risk factors—and recovery is possible at any stage.

Dual Diagnosis: Treating SUD and Mental Health Together

A significant number of people with SUD also have co-occurring psychiatric conditions, sometimes referred to as dual diagnosis. Treating both simultaneously improves outcomes and reduces relapse risk.

Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Major Depression

• PTSD and other anxiety disorders

• Bipolar Disorder

• Personality Disorders (e.g., BPD, ASPD)

• Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

• ADHD

• Eating Disorders

Living with SUD: Treatment and Support

If you or someone you care about is struggling, Global Behavioral Healthcare provides compassionate, evidence-based care to guide your recovery. Our team includes addiction psychiatrists, therapists, and care coordinators who collaborate to create tailored treatment plans that fit your goals.

Recovery often includes:

• Individual and group therapy

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

• Peer support groups and 12-step programs

• Holistic care, including mindfulness, nutrition, and physical wellness strategies

We also support lifestyle restructuring—whether through learning a new skill, rebuilding relationships, or developing healthier daily routines.

Recognizing a Crisis: When to Call for Immediate Help

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you or someone else is experiencing:

• Overdose symptoms: Slowed breathing, unconsciousness, blue lips/fingernails, seizures

• Suicidal thoughts: Call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• Severe withdrawal symptoms: Hallucinations, seizures, extreme agitation or confusion

• Injury, loss of consciousness, or suspected poisoning

• Danger to self or others

A Message from Global Behavioral Healthcare

Addiction is not a personal failure—it’s a treatable condition. At Global Behavioral Healthcare, we meet you with empathy, expertise, and a plan for healing. Whether you’re exploring treatment for the first time or returning to care after relapse, you’re not alone—and recovery is possible.

Connect with us today to take the first step toward healing.