Substance Use Disorders
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) refer to a range of conditions characterized by recurrent use of
alcohol or drugs, leading to significant clinical and functional impairment. This impairment can
manifest in the form of health problems, disability, and failures to meet responsibilities at work,
school, or home. The term "substance" in SUDs can cover a myriad of addictive agents, from
alcohol and nicotine to illicit drugs and prescription medications.
Types of Substance Use Disorders:
Alcohol Use Disorder
Tobacco Use Disorder
Cannabis Use Disorder
Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)
Opioid Use Disorder (e.g., heroin, morphine, prescription pain relievers)
Hallucinogen Use Disorder
Inhalant Use Disorder
Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Use Disorder (e.g., benzodiazepines)
Symptoms:
● Impaired Control: Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than intended;
persistent attempts to cut down or control use.
● Social Impairment: Failure to complete major tasks at work, school, or home; social and
interpersonal problems exacerbated by the substance.
● Risky Use: Consumption in situations where it's physically hazardous.
● Pharmacological Indicators: Tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the
desired effect or experiencing reduced effects when using the same amount) and
withdrawal symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The development of SUDs is complex and influenced by:
● Genetics: Family history can increase susceptibility.
● Environment: Factors like peer pressure, lack of parental supervision, and socioeconomic
status play roles.
● Brain Chemistry: Drugs and alcohol can alter the brain's balance of reward and pain,
leading to increased cravings.
● Developmental Factors: Early exposure to drugs or trauma can influence the propensity to
develop SUDs later in life.
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) refer to a range of conditions characterized by recurrent use of
alcohol or drugs, leading to significant clinical and functional impairment. This impairment can
manifest in the form of health problems, disability, and failures to meet responsibilities at work,
school, or home. The term "substance" in SUDs can cover a myriad of addictive agents, from
alcohol and nicotine to illicit drugs and prescription medications.
Types of Substance Use Disorders:
Alcohol Use Disorder
Tobacco Use Disorder
Cannabis Use Disorder
Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)
Opioid Use Disorder (e.g., heroin, morphine, prescription pain relievers)
Hallucinogen Use Disorder
Inhalant Use Disorder
Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Use Disorder (e.g., benzodiazepines)
Symptoms:
● Impaired Control: Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than intended;
persistent attempts to cut down or control use.
● Social Impairment: Failure to complete major tasks at work, school, or home; social and
interpersonal problems exacerbated by the substance.
● Risky Use: Consumption in situations where it's physically hazardous.
● Pharmacological Indicators: Tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the
desired effect or experiencing reduced effects when using the same amount) and
withdrawal symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The development of SUDs is complex and influenced by:
● Genetics: Family history can increase susceptibility.
● Environment: Factors like peer pressure, lack of parental supervision, and socioeconomic
status play roles.
● Brain Chemistry: Drugs and alcohol can alter the brain's balance of reward and pain,
leading to increased cravings.
● Developmental Factors: Early exposure to drugs or trauma can influence the propensity to
develop SUDs later in life.
