Options for Treating Substance Use Problems

Struggling with a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problem that can affect anyone regardless of culture, race, age, or gender. It is important to understand how substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problems are defined, the effect it can have on the mind and body, how to prevent a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problem, and what options are available for treating a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problem. 

Defining Substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. Use

Substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. Use Problem is a term that is used to describe when someone uses a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. (such as drugs or alcohol) to a point where it causes problems in their life. For example, dependence on the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. may cause someone to lose control of how much they are using, have issues in relationships with family or friends, miss school or work, or it may affect their mental health A person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being. . Commonly used substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. include tobacco (cigarettes), alcohol, cannabis (marijuana), and painkiller medications such as pills, cocaine, and heroin.

If a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problem becomes frequent To happen often. , it may become a  substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. dependency issue where someone needs the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. to function. 

Signs of a Substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. Use Problem

Loss of Control Of Substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. Use: 

• using more of a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. than intended
• difficulty reducing the amount of substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. being taken
• spending a lot of time obtaining the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.
• using or recovering from a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.
• having cravings for the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.

Risky Use:

• using a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. in dangerous situations
• physical or psychological problems caused by the use of the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.

Social Problems:

• not fulfilling responsibilities at school, work, or home
• social or relationship problems caused by continued use
• giving up important social activities 

Physical Effects:

• building tolerance of a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.
• experiencing withdrawal To pull away from (physical or psychological symptoms when not using the substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. )

Prevention Strategies

Healthy Lifestyle:

A healthy lifestyle can help us be stronger and more able to face challenges. A healthy lifestyle does not only refer to our diet and exercise. It also includes sleep, relationships, mental well-being, stress levels, environments, and more. We can build habits and routines that help us live a healthier life all around.

Managing Emotions & Relaxation:

For many people, using substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. is a way to escape from uncomfortable emotions or experiences such as stress, anxiety The fearful anticipation of danger or problems accompanied by an intense unpleasant feeling or physical symptoms. , anger, shame A painful feeling of humiliation, similar to guilt or regret. , or sadness. To avoid creating a habit A regular practice that is hard to give up. of using substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. to address these feelings, find ways to learn about how to manage your emotions. Some ideas to try include: practicing deep breathing, journaling, spending time with people who care about you, or seeking professional mental health A person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being. support. You can read more about reasons why people use substances and ideas of what to do instead here.

Educate Yourself and Others:

While education does not stop substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problems from happening, it is important to learn about different substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. and their long-term effects on our bodies and communities. This helps us make good decisions for ourselves and share the information we learn with others.

Options for Treating Substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. Use Problems

There are many different options for treating a substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problem. Here are some common kinds of treatment, and you can learn more in this article.

• Group therapy: Led by a therapist, participants are encouraged to support one another in making meaningful life changes.
• Support groups: Meet with peers who are also in recovery and participate in a social environment free of substances Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. .

• Medical Care & Medication: Used with the guidance of a medical professional in specific cases for symptom management. Medication is most effective when paired with therapy. Alternative Treatment Methods: Some people may choose to use non-traditional treatments to address substance Something people use to cope with something. Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs. use problems, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, art therapy, etc. 

  ---

  Additional Resources Materials to help someone.

• Ally Network Crisis Support Directory

• DV Hotline- Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence

• National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma, and Mental Health

• National Harm Reduction Coalition- Principles

• National Harm Reduction Coalition- Overdose Prevention

• Parent Resources For Talking About Drugs & Alcohol (SAMHSA)

• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) and TTY 1-800-487-4889

• SAMHSA Behavioral Treatment Services Locator 

• Teen Substance Use & Risks

• Youth Substance Abuse Support