S.U.D. Treatment

Nearly 50 million Americans aged 12 and older battle substance use disorder. If you struggle with substance abuse and need help breaking harmful addictive habits, turn to Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine in New York City. The skilled primary care experts diagnose and treat this common concern to help you discover lasting sobriety. Schedule a telehealth evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse occurs when an individual is unable to stop using a harmful substance, such as tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. It can negatively affect their physical and mental health when not treated. 

If you struggle to stop using a substance despite knowing it causes harm, see the Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine experts for a personalized plan.

What are the symptoms of substance abuse?

Symptoms of substance use disorder include:

• Being intoxicated or high
• Withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using a harmful substance
• Using more and more of a substance to experience the same effects
• Strong urges to use harmful substances
• Not being able to stop using a substance
• Problems at work, in school, or in relationships because of an addiction 
• Substance-related physical or mental health concerns 
• Memory loss
• Risky behaviors

Examples of withdrawal symptoms can include: 

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Nausea 
• Mood changes 
• Sweating 
• Problems sleeping
• Muscle cramping

It’s common to have an addiction to more than one type of substance at the same time. Alcohol use disorder is the most common type of substance use disorder.

What are the risk factors for substance abuse?

The exact cause isn’t well understood, but risk factors for substance abuse include:

• Peer pressure
• Stress, anxiety, and/or depression
• Trying drugs at an early age
• Using highly addictive substances
• Family history of substance abuse
• History of childhood trauma
• Genetics

Left untreated, substance abuse can increase the risk of an overdose, or using too much of a substance, causing a medical emergency or even death. 

How is substance abuse diagnosed?

Your Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine specialist completes a comprehensive mental health evaluation using DSM-5 criteria to screen for substance use disorder and other mental health conditions. 

They discuss your emotions, moods, thoughts, behaviors, and lifestyle habits to customize a plan that’s best suited to your needs. 

How is substance abuse treated?

Treating substance abuse may include:

• Suboxone®, a medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms 
• Live-in treatment programs
• Individualized therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy 
• Therapeutic communities
• Motivational enhancement therapy
• Assertive community treatment (ACT)
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Self-help programs
• Stress management
• Other lifestyle changes

It’s helpful to: 

• Get plenty of sleep 
• Eat nutritious foods 
• Stay active 
• Maintain a strong social support network during and after treatment 

Follow up with Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine for long-lasting support. 

Schedule a substance abuse evaluation at Genesis Personal Healthcare Medicine by phone or request an appointment online today.