top of page

Substance Use Disorder

What is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a medical and psychological condition in which a person’s use of alcohol, prescription medication, or other substances begins to negatively affect their health, mood, behaviors, or daily life. It is not a moral failure, lack of willpower, or personal weakness. SUD involves changes in brain chemistry, reward pathways, motivation, and stress regulation — which is why stopping isn’t simply a matter of “just quitting.”


Biologically, substances alter neurotransmitters like dopamine, GABA, and glutamate. Over time, the brain becomes conditioned to rely on the substance to feel normal or cope with stress. Genetics, trauma history, chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and pain can all play a role.

​

person-suffering-from-bullying.jpg

Psychologically, many people begin using substances to cope — with anxiety, trauma, emotional pain, pressure, or difficult life experiences. Eventually, the substance can take on a life of its own, leading to cravings, guilt, shame, secrecy, or loss of control. Many people hide their struggles because they fear judgment — but SUD is common, valid, and treatable.

person-suffering-from-bullying (1).jpg

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms vary depending on the substance and the person, but common signs include:

  • Needing more of a substance over time

  • Trouble cutting back or stopping

  • Cravings or urges to use

  • Using to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma

  • Withdrawal symptoms without the substance

  • Losing interest in hobbies or relationships

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood

  • Using more than intended or for longer than planned

  • Memory issues, blackouts, or risky behavior

  • Relationship or work difficulties related to use

  • Feeling guilt, shame, or hiding use from others

Substance use exists on a spectrum mild, moderate, or severe and any level of struggle deserves support.

How Are Substance Use Disorder Treated?

Substance Use Disorder is highly treatable, and the most effective care is personalized to each individual. Treatment may include:

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Trauma-informed therapy

  • DBT and emotion-regulation skills

  • Motivational interviewing

  • Relapse prevention strategies

  • Identifying triggers and building healthier coping tools​

Medication

  • Alcohol: Naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram

  • Opioids: Buprenorphine/Suboxone, Subutex, methadone, naltrexone

  • Nicotine: NRT (patch/gum), bupropion, varenicline

  • Co-occurring mental health: SSRIs, SNRIs, mood stabilizers, non-addictive anxiolytics (buspirone, hydroxyzine)

Lifestyle & Support

  • Sleep and routine stabilization

  • Addressing underlying trauma, anxiety, or depression

  • Supportive relationships and community connection

  • Crisis planning and relapse prevention

  • Creating structure around recovery goals​

Advanced Treatment Options

Some individuals benefit from higher levels of support:

  • Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)

  • Partial hospitalization (PHP)

  • Residential treatment

  • Medication-assisted treatment

  • Collaboration with addiction specialists as needed​

Recovery isn’t linear every step forward matters.

handsome-man-is-talking-about-his-problems.jpg

How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health

We know that substance use often begins with pain, stress, or survival. Many people feel ashamed, judged, or afraid to ask for help but here, you will always be treated with dignity and compassion.


We take time to understand your life, your struggles, and your goals. We never shame, force, or pressure you. Treatment moves at your pace, and every decision is collaborative. Whether you want harm reduction, moderation, or full sobriety, we will support your journey.


Our goal is to help you feel safe, respected, and empowered to build healthier coping tools, reduce cravings, support mental health, and create a path toward stability and healing.


You are not alone, and it is never too early or too late to ask for help.
We’re here to support you, one step at a time.

bottom of page