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Substance Abuse and Addiction

What is it? 

Substance Abuse and addiction are when an individual consumes substances or engages in behaviors that create a consistent physiological and psychological dependence on them to function. Abuse also encompasses when a substance is used out of or beyond cultural contexts to help cope with difficulties and create mental and physiological disabilities that can become long lasting or permanent. 

Symptoms of Substance Abuse and Addiction

Substance Abuse and addiction are growing concerns in the world. As of 2024, 48.4 million Americans aged 12 or older (16.8% of the population) had a past-year substance use disorder. With the rise of synthetic substances and opioids as well as online access, these numbers continue to climb not just for substances, but also online addictions like gambling or pornography. Common symptoms of problematic use and addiction are below.

  • Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day

  • Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts

  • Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect

  • Taking or engaging in larger amounts of the drug or behavior over a longer period of time than you intended

  • Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug

  • Spending money on the drug or behavior, even though you can't afford it

  • Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug/behavioral action

  • Continuing to use or engage with drugs/behaviors, even though you know it's causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm

  • Driving or doing other risky activities when you're under the influence of the drug

  • Spending a good deal of time getting, using,  or recovering from the effects of the drug or behavior

  • Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug or behavior

  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking or using drug/behavior

Treatment

Substance abuse and addiction are multifaceted concerns that can require a variety of methods for treatment.  The work begins with identifying and addressing the underlying mental, emotional, and social causes of addiction. Individual therapy is recommended first and foremost as such items can be explored in nonjudgmental and clinical-informed environment. Other treatment options include:

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  • Group Psychotherapy

  • Substance/Behavioral Support Groups - i.e. Alcoholics Anonymous

  • Medication, if applicable

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By offering a supportive, non-judgmental environment, these experts empower clients to change their behavior, rebuild self-esteem, and navigate the complex journey toward lasting sobriety or abstinence. Kylene is our resident expert on substance abuse  and addiction, and can help you navigate life beyond dependence and addiction.

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