Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a disease. It is often referred to as addiction and spans a wide variety of problems arising from the use of drugs and/or alcohol. SUD IS NOT A MORAL ISSUE - IT IS A DISEASE!

According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the signs of substance use disorder include:

• Taking the substance in larger amounts and for a longer amount of time than you’re meant to if it’s a prescription.

• Having a strong desire or urge to use the substance.

• Having unsuccessful efforts to cut down on or control substance use.

• Spending a lot of time obtaining or using the substance or recovering from its effects.

• Having issues fulfilling responsibilities at work, school or home due to substance use.

• Continuing to use the substance, even when it causes problems in relationships.

• Giving up social, occupational or recreational activities because of substance use.

• Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger.

• Continuing substance use despite an ongoing physical or psychological problem that’s likely caused or worsened by the substance.

• Developing tolerance (need for increased amounts to get the same effect).

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance.