Substance Use Hotline

If you were dealing with Substance Use disorder, there’s no need to do this on your own. Call the nationwide (800) 557-9715, mental health hotline and speak with someone about your issue and get the help for Substance Use disorder that you need.

What are some of the challenges you face in managing your substance use disorder? How does substance use disorder impact your daily life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being? What are some of the triggers or factors that contribute to your substance use?

It’s time to seek professional help and receive treatment for your Substance Use disorder.

Nationwide Hotline for Substance Use Disorder

Take the first step towards getting help by calling the Substance Use Disorder Hotline at (800) 557-9715,  a dedicated team of mental health professionals, counselors, and volunteers and are here 24/7 to offer a listening ear, emotional support, and practical advice.

Substance Use

Substance use disorder (SUD) refers to a pattern of problematic use of drugs or alcohol that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress. It is characterized by a cluster of symptoms and behaviors indicating a compulsive and dysfunctional relationship with substances. Here is some information about substance use disorder:

Symptoms of Substance Use:

1. Impaired control: Difficulty controlling the amount or frequency of substance use, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit, and spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance.
2. Social impairment: Substance use leading to failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home, and continued use despite persistent interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by substance use.
3. Risky use: Engaging in substance use in physically hazardous situations, such as driving under the influence, and continuing to use substances despite knowing it causes physical or psychological problems.
4. Pharmacological criteria: Tolerance, which refers to the need for increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect, and withdrawal symptoms when substance use is reduced or discontinued.

Types of Substances

Substance use disorder can involve various substances, including but not limited to:

1. Alcohol
2. Opioids (such as heroin, prescription painkillers)
3. Stimulants (such as cocaine, methamphetamine)
4. Cannabis (marijuana)
5. Sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics (such as benzodiazepines)
6. Hallucinogens (such as LSD, psilocybin mushrooms)
7. Inhalants (such as solvents, aerosols)
8. Tobacco (nicotine)

Substance Use Severity Levels

Substance use disorder is categorized into mild, moderate, or severe based on the number of symptoms present and their impact on daily functioning.

Causes of Substance Use

The development of substance use disorder can involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, including:

1. Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic vulnerability that increases their likelihood of developing substance use disorder.
2. Environmental factors: Exposure to substances at an early age, peer influence, availability of substances, trauma, and stress can contribute to the development of substance use disorder.
3. Co-occurring mental health disorders: Substance use disorder often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Treatment for Substance Use

Treatment for substance use disorder typically involves a combination of approaches, tailored to the individual’s needs:

1. Detoxification: Medically supervised withdrawal to manage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
2. Behavioral therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management are commonly used to help individuals change their behaviors and develop coping strategies.
3. Medications: Medications may be used to support recovery, manage withdrawal symptoms, or reduce cravings associated with specific substances.
4. Support groups: Participation in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a sense of community, encouragement, and accountability.
5. Rehabilitation programs: Residential or outpatient rehabilitation programs can offer structured support, education, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.

It’s important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder. A healthcare professional or addiction specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

National Substance Use Disorder Resources

NAMI Substance Use Helpline
Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-6264 or info@nami.org if you have any questions about Substance Use disorder or finding support and resources.

SAMHSA Substance Use Helpline
You can reach out to SAMHSA’s National Substance Use Disorder Helpline, which provides information, support, and referrals for individuals and families facing mental health challenges, including Substance Use disorder at 1-800-662-4357. Trained professionals are available 24/7 to assist you and provide confidential guidance. They can help connect you with local resources, treatment options, and support services specific to your Substance Use Disorder needs.