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Written by Drew Redd. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a mental health condition marked by the compulsive use of substances despite harmful consequences. It impacts the brain, behavior, and overall health, causing both physical and emotional dependence.
In 2022, SAMHSA reported that 48.7 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder. Among them, 29.5 million struggled with alcohol use disorder (AUD), 27.2 million with drug use disorder, and 8 million had both.
With proper treatment and support, you can overcome substance use disorder and regain control of your life. Our drug and alcohol rehab facility provides evidence-based therapies and a compassionate environment to support your journey to lasting sobriety.
Substance use disorders can develop from the abuse of different types of substances, both legal and illegal. Here are the main types of substances that you can become addicted to:
Regardless of the substance, all addictive drugs hijack the brain’s reward system and make it extremely difficult to quit.
A combination of factors influences the development of SUD.
…addiction is more than repeated exposure, it is the synchronicity between intrinsic factors (genotype, sex, age, preexisting addictive disorder, or other mental illness), extrinsic factors (childhood, level of education, socioeconomic status, social support, entourage, drug availability) and the nature of the addictive agent (pharmacokinetics, path of administration, psychoactive properties). (Popescu, et. al.)
The causes of substance use disorder include:
Drugs and alcohol affect the brain’s reward system and may cause long-term cognitive damage. Substances flood the brain with dopamine, a neurotransmitter that creates feelings of pleasure and reinforces substance use. Volkow, et. al. reveal that all addictive substances increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as endogenous opioids, endogenous cannabinoids, serotonin, glutamate, and neuropeptides.
Over time, the brain adapts, requiring more of the substance to keep dopamine levels in balance and achieve the same pleasurable effect. This leads to tolerance, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
The alterations in the brain’s chemistry and function caused by substance use are the hallmarks of the disease model of addiction. This model views addiction as a chronic brain disease, and not simply a behavioral issue.
Genes play a significant role in the risk of developing an addiction. Research shows that genetics account for nearly half of the likelihood of someone struggling with substance abuse.
While genes don’t directly cause SUD, they can influence how the brain responds to substances and the likelihood of engaging in addictive behaviors.
A 2021 study suggests the existence of a unifying “Addiction-Risk-Factor” of genetic liability that increases vulnerability to SUDs. This common genetic factor is distinct from the genetics of normal substance use and other mental health issues, indicating that addiction has a unique genetic basis.
The environment you live in can greatly impact your likelihood of developing SUD. Factors such as easy access to drugs, living in a disadvantaged neighborhood, and facing obstacles to getting treatment can contribute to problematic substance use and addiction.
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University suggest that racial and socioeconomic inequalities often lead to disparities in these environmental risk factors and, consequently, in rates of substance use disorders and treatment outcomes.
Easy access to drugs or alcohol increases the likelihood of developing SUD. Many factors contribute to the risk of developing substance use disorder, including:
Frone, et. al. show that “physical access to substances and ease of use may promote higher levels of substance use and misuse, which can increase the likelihood of SUDs and act as a trigger for craving and use among those with an active SUD or in recovery.”
Many people turn to substances to relieve emotional pain, stress, and trauma temporarily, but drugs and alcohol often worsen mental health issues and can lead to addiction. Early childhood trauma and complex mental health issues often lead to high-risk behaviors, including hazardous substance use. A 2010 study found “a strong relationship between adverse childhood experience and subsequent substance use and poor mental health outcomes, particularly PTSD.”
Many people use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate mental health symptoms and provide temporary relief. These substances ultimately worsen the symptoms and interfere with the effectiveness of medications used to manage mental health conditions, delaying recovery.
For example, those with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) use substances to self-medicate their symptoms, which may explain the high rates of co-occurring substance use disorders in people with PTSD.
Co-occurring mental health disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, require integrated treatment that addresses both the substance use disorder and the mental health condition at the same time. Ardu provides personalized dual diagnosis treatment to help you overcome addiction and manage your mental health symptoms.
Substance use disorder is a progressive condition. It develops through several stages.
This is the initial stage where a person tries a substance out of curiosity, peer pressure, or to experience its effects. The use is occasional and the person may not perceive any significant consequences or develop a strong desire for the substance.
After experimenting, people progress to using the substance more regularly, often to experience the pleasurable effects or to cope with stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions. During this stage, some people develop tolerance to the substance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects.
Substance use becomes more frequent and starts to interfere with daily life, causing problems in relationships, work, or school. People may engage in risky behaviors while under the influence, such as driving or engaging in unprotected sex. Negative consequences accumulate, but the person continues the use despite them.
In this stage, the person has developed a physical and psychological dependence. They experience strong cravings and withdrawal symptoms when they stop using the substance, which makes it extremely difficult to quit even if they want to. Their life revolves around obtaining and using the substance, often at the expense of other important aspects of their life.
Addiction is the most severe stage of SUD. At this stage, the person has lost control over their use. They may experience severe physical, psychological, and social consequences, but they can’t stop using despite the negative consequences. Addiction requires comprehensive treatment to achieve and maintain recovery.
Not everyone progresses through all stages, and many factors influence the severity and the symptoms experienced.
Symptoms of SUD can range from mild to severe and differ from person to person. The signs can be divided into physical and behavioral. Let’s take a closer look at both.
Substance use disorder takes a heavy toll on the body. The physical manifestations of SUD may include:
Substance use disorder also shows itself through a person’s behaviors and psychological state. Addiction also drastically impacts how someone thinks, feels, and acts. The behavioral symptoms of SUD include:
These symptoms can manifest from the short-term effects of substance use or prolonged, heavy use over time depending on the substance involved.
The symptoms of alcohol and drug addiction can overlap, but certain telltale signs indicate that someone is struggling with alcohol addiction. If you or someone you know is showing signs of drug or alcohol use disorder, seek professional help.
Contact Ardu Recovery Center and let us help you take your first step on the road to recovery.
Substance use disorder devastates physical and mental health. Long-term addiction to drugs and alcohol causes:
Many people underestimate the negative health impacts of alcohol, but both alcohol and drug use disorders can have detrimental effects on health. Don’t wait until substance use disorder takes a heavy toll on your health. Contact us today to start your journey to a healthier, substance-free life.
Research shows that around 15–17% of Americans aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder involving alcohol or drugs in 2022. This makes SUDs highly prevalent across the U.S.
The prevalence of SUDs among young adults (aged 18-25) has also increased in recent years—from 5.4% in 2011 to 6.2% in 2019 (Lu, et. al.). Cannabis use was the most common SUD in young adults, with 3.6% of them abusing cannabis in 2011 to 4.2% in 2019.
The overall trend indicates a growing problem that requires attention and effective interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders in the United States.
SUD is diagnosed through a clinical assessment using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria. The DSM-5 evaluates the presence and severity of problematic substance use patterns and their impacts on a person’s life.
Patients with a substance use disorder are diagnosed when they exhibit at least 2 of the 11 symptoms within 12 months:
Based on the number of criteria met, SUD can be classified as mild (2-3 criteria), moderate (4-5 criteria), or severe (6 or more criteria). If someone you care about is showing symptoms of SUD, reach out for help as soon as possible.
Every person’s path to recovery is unique. Our programs address your specific needs, drawing from a wealth of proven therapeutic approaches. More than just treating the symptoms, Ardu understands the root causes fueling the addiction, providing you with the tools to rebuild a life of purpose and fulfillment.
The treatment of substance use disorder involves a combination of approaches tailored to the person’s needs, the severity of the disorder, and personal circumstances. Ardu’s expert team will guide and support you through the key components of treatment for substance use disorders.
The first step in treating SUD is detoxification. Drug and alcohol detox programs help your body safely adjust to the absence of the substance while managing potentially uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
At our evidence-based drug detox center and alcohol detox facility, you receive round-the-clock care and monitoring by our experienced professionals. In certain cases, they integrate FDA-approved medications into your treatment plan to manage cravings, ease withdrawal, and support recovery. Our medical detox facility employs the use of medications such as buprenorphine, naltrexone, and acamprosate.
After you complete detox, you enter our rehab facility where you choose one of the following treatment modalities.
Our inpatient and outpatient programs cater to the diverse needs of those seeking help for substance abuse and addiction.
We employ evidence-based therapies to change unhealthy patterns and behaviors contributing to SUD. These include:
Ongoing aftercare and relapse prevention planning are crucial for sustaining long-term sobriety. Our aftercare provides continued support through sober living, alumni programs, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle coaching to help you build a strong recovery network.
No matter your substance of abuse, Ardu Recovery Center provides comprehensive, evidence-based care to treat substance use disorders of all severities. We tailor our programs to meet your unique needs and circumstances, so you can build a foundation for lasting sobriety.
Our addiction treatment facility is located in Provo, Utah. Comprehensive programs, expert staff, and a serene natural setting provide the ideal environment for your recovery journey. Whether you’re struggling with alcoholism or drug substance use disorders, Ardu provides specialized programs and employs diverse therapeutic approaches to treat:
We also offer cutting-edge therapies to address drug and alcohol addiction holistically such as:
Successful recovery is possible—we’re here to guide you. Contact us to get informed and start your sobriety journey today.
Drew Redd is the executive director of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.
Examples of substance use disorders include:
Substance use refers to the consumption of any mind or body-altering substance, whether legal, such as alcohol and prescription medications, or illegal, like heroin and cocaine. Substance misuse occurs when these substances are used in a harmful or illegal manner. This includes taking medication not prescribed by a healthcare provider or engaging in binge drinking.
Addiction affects the brain by altering dopamine levels. This reinforces the desire to continue using the substance to experience pleasure despite the negative consequences. Chronic use changes the brain’s structure and function, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making and impulse control. As a result, the person becomes physically dependent and experiences withdrawal symptoms when the substance is unavailable.
Substance use disorder is often considered a family disease because it’s heavily influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Family dynamics and home environments play a crucial role in the development and continuation of SUD. These include communication patterns, stress levels, and exposure to substance use within the family.
There is a hereditary component to addiction. Research shows that those with a family history of addiction are more likely to develop SUD themselves. This shows that addiction can be passed down through generations.
You can reset dopamine levels in many ways. Here are a few of them:
Addiction significantly deteriorates a person’s quality of life, touching nearly every aspect of their daily existence. Its effects lead to a cycle of negative consequences, including:
Addiction reduces overall life satisfaction by diminishing the ability to enjoy daily activities and maintain a balanced lifestyle. It often leads to engaging in risky behaviors, neglecting personal responsibilities, and losing interest in hobbies and passions.
Many people use drugs as a coping mechanism to manage life stressors and challenges. Emotional stress, dealing with trauma, and significant life pressures can drive people to seek temporary relief through substances. Those with psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, often self-medicate with prescription medicine or some types of illicit drugs to alleviate their symptoms. The risk of substance use increases in stressful living conditions, poverty, or abusive relationships, where people use drugs as an escape.
HHS, SAMHSA Release 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health Data. (2023, November 13). SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20231113/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-nsduh-data
Popescu, A., Marian, M., Drăgoi, A. M., & Costea, V. (2021). Understanding the genetics and neurobiological pathways behind addiction (Review). Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 21(5). https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2021.9976
Volkow, N. D., Michaelides, M., & Baler, R. (2019). The Neuroscience of Drug Reward and Addiction. Physiological Reviews, 99(4), 2115-2140. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00014.2018
Volkow, N. D., Michaelides, M., & Baler, R. (2019). The Neuroscience of Drug Reward and Addiction. Physiological Reviews, 99(4), 2115-2140. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00014.2018
Hatoum, A. S., Johnson, E. C., Colbert, S. M., Polimanti, R., Zhou, H., Walters, R. K., Gelernter, J., Edenberg, H. J., Bogdan, R., & Agrawal, A. (2022). The addiction risk factor: A unitary genetic vulnerability characterizes substance use disorders and their associations with common correlates. Neuropsychopharmacology, 47(10), 1739-1745. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-021-01209-w
Mennis, J., Stahler, G. J., & Mason, M. J. (2016). Risky Substance Use Environments and Addiction: A New Frontier for Environmental Justice Research. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 13(6). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph13060607
Frone, M. R., Chosewood, L. C., Osborne, J. C., & Howard, J. J. (2022). Workplace Supported Recovery from Substance Use Disorders: Defining the Construct, Developing a Model, and Proposing an Agenda for Future Research. Occupational Health Science, 6(4), 475–511. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41542-022-00123-x
Khoury, L., Tang, Y. L., Bradley, B., Cubells, J. F., & Ressler, K. J. (2010). Substance use, childhood traumatic experience, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in an urban civilian population. Depression and Anxiety, 27(12), 1077-1086. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.20751
2022 NSDUH Detailed Tables. (n.d.). CBHSQ Data. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2022-nsduh-detailed-tables
Lu, W., Lopez-Castro, T., & Vu, T. (2023). Population-based examination of substance use disorders and treatment use among US young adults in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2011–2019. Drug and Alcohol Dependence Reports, 8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100181
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