Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorders occur when a person's use of a substance leads to health problems, or problems in work, school, or social life. There is no one exact cause of substance use disorders, however, emotional distress, PTSD , anxiety , depression , and stress can all be factors. Individuals with substance use disorders, may be aware of their problem but not be able to stop it. 

Symptoms of substance use problems can include: 

• Feeling like you need to use the substance regularly
• Having intense urges for the substance
• Over time, needing more of the substance to get the same effect 
• Spending money on the substance, even though you cannot afford it
• Not meeting work or social obligations due to substance use 
• Continuing to use the substance, even thought you know it is causing problems 
• Doing things to get the substance that you wouldn’t normally do, like stealing 
• Driving or doing risky activities while under the influence of a substance 
• Failing in attempts to stop using the substance 
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop using the substance 
• A lack of self-control 
• Feelings of anxiety , irritability, or depression
• Problems in relationships