Many people suffer from substance use disorder (SUD), and it can be detrimental to one’s physical or mental health.
Read on to learn more about SUD and how you or a loved one can get help.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a condition when a person’s use of alcohol and/or drug substances leads to impairment, such as health problems, disability or problems at work, school or home. Addiction represents the most severe form of this disorder.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), there are three levels of SUD severity.
DSM is a handbook used by healthcare professionals that contains descriptions and symptoms to diagnosis mental disorders. A diagnosis of SUD is based on evidence of social impairment, risky use and impaired control.
DSM-5th Edition Criteria
The severity of the SUD is determined by the number of criteria the person meets:
There are several substances that can lead to SUD:
According to SAMHSA, in 2014, 21.5 million Americans, ages 12 and older, were classified with SUD. SUD is a serious condition with many consequences if one does not get the help they need.
The exact cause of SUD is unknown, but a person’s genes, distress, peer pressure and mental health can all be factors. Those that develop SUD may have depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or another mental problem. A stressful lifestyle and low self-esteem are also common.
SUD symptoms can range from physical signs to mental and emotional signs:
There are many risks to substance abuse and addiction that can harm the body in several different ways from health problems to behavioral issues:
There are several stages of drug use that can lead to addiction:
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SUD is a serious condition, and it is not easy to treat.
The best care and treatment involves trained professionals. Treatment starts by recognizing the problem. Although denial can be a common symptom of addiction, those who are addicted will have less denial if they are treated with respect, rather than being told what to do.
The substance can be slowly withdrawn or stopped immediately. Support of physical or emotional symptoms, as well as staying drug free are key to treatment.
SUD is a serious condition that you or a loved one may be facing. We recognize this, and it is okay to ask for help.
Recovery isn’t easy. We offer a variety of programs to provide guidance and accountability to keep you on track to a sober lifestyle. Ascension will be with you every step of the way.
Ascension Recovery Services has a team of experts and specialists with years of experience working with individuals struggling with addiction. We offer counseling and addiction services to make sure you or a loved one gets the help they need.
Think you or a loved one needs help with recovery? Give us a call today at: 304-241-4585
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