Substance Abuse Diagnosis and Treatment
Substance abuse, also known as substance Use Disorder(SUD), is a major public health concern that impacts millions of people around the world. It can involve the improper use of drugs, alcohol, or even prescription medications, often resulting in significant physical, emotional, and social damage. In this article, we’ll dive into the different facets of substance abuse, looking at its causes, symptoms, and the treatment options that are available.
Some of the most common substances include alcohol, opioids and marijuana. It can range from mild to severe (addiction). SUD is a treatable mental health condition. At One Stop Psychiatry, we offers in-person and telehealth ADHD treatment in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach Gardens & Miramar, Florida. Our expert and board-certified psychiatrists offers individualized help. Contac Us today to start your recovery journey with One Stop Psychiatry.
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- Medication Management & Ongoing Therapy
What is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse is characterized by a harmful pattern of using substances that interfere with daily life and overall well-being. These substances can include alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription medications when misused. The effects of substance abuse range from physical harm to mental health issues, severely impacting an individual’s ability to function. It is a chronic condition that often requires long-term treatment.
These substances may include alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription medications when they are misused.
The impacts of substance abuse vary from physical damage to mental health challenges, significantly affecting a person’s capacity to operate effectively.
Types of Substance Abuse
There are mainly three types of ADD/ADHD
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol use disorder or (alcoholism) is a common medical condition. The misuse of alcohol stands as the most widespread substance abuse issue globally. Excessive drinking leads to severe dependence and addiction problems in individuals. The misuse of alcohol results in various health issues which include liver disease and heart problems and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Illegal Drug Abuse
Illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy are frequently misused for their ability to alter the mind.
This misuse of these drugs can lead to serious immediate risks, such as overdose, and can also cause long-term problems like cognitive impairment, damage to organs, and mental health issues.
Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drug misuse happens when people utilize medications in ways that are not aligned with their doctor’s prescriptions.
Opioids, stimulants, and depressants are among the most frequently abused prescription drugs. Misuse of these medications may result in addiction, overdose, and, in severe instances, death.
Signs of Substance Abuse
The common signs of substance abuse include:
When it comes to physical symptoms, you might notice things like weight loss, changes in appetite, feeling drained of energy, and maybe even a decline in personal hygiene.
On the behavioral side, look out for signs like secrecy, neglecting responsibilities, and taking part in risky activities.
Psychologically, symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and feelings of depression.
- Using a substance in larger amounts or for a longer time than what’s prescribed, that’s a big warning sign.
- Hurting or harming yourself or others because of substance use
- Needing more of a substance to get the same effect.
- Changes in mood, behavior, or appearance
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Continuing to use the substance, even when it causes problems in relationships.
- keep using it despite the risks, or if it’s making any physical or mental health issues worse
- Giving up social, circle or recreational activities because of substance use.
It’s really important to seek medical help as soon as you notice signs of substance use disorder.
How Substance Abuse Treated?
Substance use disorders are conditions that can be treated. When ignored, they can lead to serious consequences, even death. That’s why getting the right treatment is important for survival.
There are many different strategies for treating substance use disorders. The severity of an individual’s disorder plays a key role in deciding the appropriate treatment plan needed for them to achieve sobriety and maintain their recovery.
Detoxification
The first step in treating substance abuse is often detoxification, its a process of clearing the body from all addictive substances. Individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder can undergo detoxification at a treatment facility. While receiving care from professionals, these individuals can obtain support to reduce their withdrawal symptoms, manage their cravings, and deal with any health complications that may occur. After detoxification is finished, individuals have the option to decide if they wish to continue with further therapeutic care.
Substance Abuse Therapy
Different types of therapies can help to treat Substance abuse disorder, includes
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT assists you in recognizing problematic thought and behavior patterns. You’ll make plans to deal with stress in a healthier way.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT provides mental health services in a community setting rather than a residential or hospital setting. ACT is highly individualized. The treatment plan will focus on your strengths, needs and goals for the future.
Contingency management: This therapy empowers you to set your future goals. And when you complete that goal, you will be rewarded.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Its a type of talk therapy similar to CBT. It’s designed to help you manage intense emotions and understand how your thoughts influence your behaviors.
Family therapy: Family therapy helps you enhance behaviors and relationships in a group or family context.
Motivational enhancement therapy: Mental health professionals motivates the individual to set goals which are attainable.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medications have the potential to alter your brain chemistry in order to address specific substance use disorders (SUDs). Additionally, they can alleviate cravings and symptoms associated with withdrawal. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the following medication-assisted treatments:
- Opioids: Methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone.
- Alcohol: Naltrexone, Acamprosate and disulfiram.
- Tobacco: A nicotine patch, nasal spray, gum or lozenge; bupropion or varenicline.
Substance Abuse Treatment At One Stop Psychiatry
If you or your loved one is struggling with substance abuse disorder, Our team of experts are here to help you out. At One Stop Psychiatry, Our team of experienced professionals in Florida is dedicated to supporting our patients through every step of their recovery, combining the latest in mental health research with compassionate care to achieve the best possible outcomes.
You have two options for Treatment at One Stop Psychiatry clinic:
In-Person Substance Abuse Treatment
We offer outpatient services for Substance Abuse, You can visit our offices in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach Gardens, or Miramar, Florida to meet with a psychiatrist or therapist face-to-face in a supportive setting
Substance Abuse Treatment Online
At One Stop Psych, we understand that flexibility matters. We offer telemedicine appointments that allow you to connect with a psychiatrist at a time that fits your schedule. Many patients appreciate the comfort and privacy of receiving Substance Abuse care from home—especially when balancing busy routines or remote locations.
Our virtual Substance Abuse treatment is just as effective as in-person sessions, ensuring you receive quality, compassionate support wherever you are. Plus, with quick access to online appointments, you won’t have to wait long to start your treatment journey.
Start Your Recovery Journey Today
One Stop Psychiatry is here to help you reclaim your mental health.
Call us today at: Ph: (754) 270-6322
To Answer your questions
How do i know if i have Substance Abuse?
If you find yourself using a substance on a regular basis and it’s starting to take a toll on your health, work, relationships, or mental state, you might be facing a substance use disorder. Some common signs to look out for include strong cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and the struggle to quit even when you really want to.
Substance abuse is closely linked to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many individuals with mental health issues use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, which can lead to addiction.
What type of substance abuse treatments do you provide?
We provide individualized treatment plans according to the patient’s needs
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – including Suboxone®, Vivitrol®, and Sublocade®
Talk therapy (CBT, trauma-informed therapy, motivational interviewing)
Lifestyle coaching and relapse prevention
In-person and telepsychiatry sessions
Can Your Doctors Prescribe Medication?
We are able to prescribe a range of medications on a patient basis to aid in their recovery from a disorder.
Does Your Clinic Accept Insurance?
Yes we accept many insurance plans, including Medicare, Cigna & Medicaid to name a few. Alternatively we also have the option of affordable, sliding scale cash plans.
Do you treat any other type of mental health disorder?
Of course! The One-Stop Psychiatric Clinic has a team of psychiatrists, clinicians, and therapists that provide consistent care with tailor-fit treatments to suit your needs. No matter how you are feeling, we will help you!
