Substance Abuse Disorder

Substances like opioids, alcohol, and stimulants can take over your body and mind, destroying your quality of life. If you’re concerned about substance abuse disorder in yourself or in a loved one, contact Careen Tetuh, PMHNP-BC, at Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, in Katy, Texas. She works with you and offers treatments to help overcome dependency and restore your quality of life. Don’t delay in dealing with your substance abuse. Call the office or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.

When should I be concerned about substance abuse disorder?

Abuse can occur with just about any substance that has addictive qualities. In addition to opioids (heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl) and alcohol, you can form a dependence on benzodiazepines, stimulants, nicotine, and tobacco.

Suspect substance abuse disorder if you:

• Change your behavior to obtain the substance
• Have a family or personal history of substance abuse disorder
• Are unable to stop using the substance even when the original reason for its use is resolved
  

Substance abuse disorder can lead to problems at work, with family, and in relationships.

Why does substance abuse disorder develop?

Certain substances, like alcohol, may be used innocently for celebration and fun. However, some people misuse alcohol and begin to depend on it to function. You develop physical cravings and a compulsion to drink.

Opioids also may have a legitimate purpose at first. They’re often prescribed for chronic or acute pain or while you’re recovering from surgery. Opioids block pain messages to your brain, so they’re useful in controlling debilitating pain, but this also gives them an addictive quality.

You can become dependent on a substance because of the way it makes you feel. Addiction makes you crave the substance, and, with time, you need more and more of it to get the same feel-good effects.

You may also notice that when you try to stop taking an addictive substance, you can suffer unbearable withdrawal symptoms. Addiction medicine and therapy provided at Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, helps ease these withdrawal symptoms and lessen cravings, so recovery from substance abuse disorder is possible.

What treatments are available for substance abuse disorder?

Substance abuse disorder is a chronic, long-term condition and requires a multi-pronged treatment approach. Because of the way it affects the brain, addiction to substances is not something you can overcome on your own.

At Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, the team has experience with various treatment options for substance use disorders. These include counseling and learning behavior change strategies, as well as proven medical treatments to help patients with substance dependence overcome their addiction. They can also discuss options for higher levels of care that may be necessary, such as a substance treatment program or inpatient detox, during which the team consistently works closely with you to ensure the best outcome for your recovery.

For some, a closely monitored medication regimen, known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), can make it easier to stay focused and engaged in treatment and therapy for recovery. MAT uses safe, FDA-approved drugs to block the effects of a particular substance or help reduce withdrawal symptoms. MAT can be used short or long-term, with its goal to help improve an individual’s quality of life and willingness to stay focused on recovery.

If you have a problem with substance abuse, call Psych Health and Wellness, PLLC, today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment to start your treatment.