Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a chronic, but treatable medical condition that affects millions of Americans. It’s marked by a recurring pattern of behaviors, thoughts, and physical responses where individuals continue using drugs or alcohol despite harmful consequences. This includes substances such as alcohol, illicit drugs, and even prescription medications.
SUD can deeply impact a person’s health, relationships, and ability to function day-to-day. It doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. In fact, in 2022, more than one in six people in the U.S. aged 12 and older reported living with a SUD, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, support, and accessible treatment options, according to the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
Symptoms of SUD vary but often involve the inability to control substance use, cravings, and withdrawal. These signs help clinicians diagnose the condition and guide individuals toward appropriate care. SUDs can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the extent of disruption they cause in a person’s life.
Common substances associated with SUD include:
- Alcohol
- Cannabis
- Hallucinogens
- Inhalants
- Opioids (prescription and illicit)
- Sedatives, hypnotics, or anti-anxiety medications
- Stimulants and psychostimulants
- Tobacco (nicotine)
- Other substances not easily categorized
Recognizing that SUD is a medical issue — not a moral failing — is vital. With compassion, education, and evidence-based treatment, recovery is possible.
Understanding the Connections Between SUDs and Mental Health
According to The National Institute of Mental Health, the relationship between substance use and mental disorders is complex and often interconnected. Many people with substance use disorders also experience other mental disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Similarly, people with mental disorders are at a higher risk of developing substance use problems.
Research suggests that substance use disorders and other mental disorders may occur together for the following reasons:
- Certain environmental factors (like stress or trauma, and genetics) can contribute to developing both substance use disorders and other mental disorders.
- Mental disorders can lead to an increase in risky behaviors, including using substances to cope. Additionally, some mental disorders alter the brain in ways that can make substances feel more rewarding, further increasing the risk of substance use disorders.
- Conversely, substance use can contribute to brain changes that increase the risk of other mental disorders.
Accurate diagnosis is key for treating co-occurring substance use and mental disorders, since symptoms may overlap. The health care providers at Embrace Psychiatric Wellness Center (https://www.embracepwc.com/about-us.html) have experience in both substances use disorders and mental disorders and use our comprehensive assessment tools to reduce the chance of a missed diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.
Recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) is not only possible—it’s within reach. There are safe, evidence-based treatment options designed to support individuals through every step of the recovery journey. Finding the right approach can make all the difference. SUD is a complex, chronic condition that requires personalized care. Early intervention, paired with a strong support system, can significantly improve long-term outcomes. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seeking professional help is an important and
Addiction is Treatable
Just like other chronic health conditions, SUDs respond to treatment—though recovery looks different for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another, but help is available and healing is possible.
Recovery isn’t just about willpower. It may involve medications that ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings, alongside individual or group therapy. In some cases, inpatient rehabilitation offers the intensive support needed to begin healing.
For those seeking flexibility, outpatient programs offer effective treatment while allowing individuals to maintain responsibilities at work, school, or home. These services can be adapted to fit unique needs and often serve as a vital lifeline in ongoing recovery.
Exploring Recovery Options for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)
Recovering from a substance use disorder is possible—and it begins with the right treatment plan. At Embrace Psychiatric Wellness Center, we offer compassionate, integrated care (https://www.embracepwc.com/what-we-treat.html) that addresses both mental health and substance use, all in one coordinated setting. Our approach centers on convenience, connection, and evidence-based support tailored to each person’s needs.
We recognize that recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are some of the safe, proven treatments available:
- Medically Supervised Detoxification help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms safely, laying the groundwork for lasting recovery.
- Behavioral Therapies – including:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Contingency Management – empower individuals to develop healthier thinking patterns and coping strategies.
- Outpatient Counseling Services help individuals explore the roots of their substance use, understand their triggers, and develop a plan for change. Sessions can take place in a provider’s office or via telehealth. Best suited for individuals with strong motivation and a supportive home environment, outpatient care may not meet the needs of those with more severe or complex challenges.
- Inpatient Rehabilitation offera structured, full-time setting, where individuals can focus entirely on healing—free from everyday distractions or pressures. This immersive approach offers 24/7 care and a built-in community of support.
Not sure which path is right for you? A professional evaluation can help you choose the level of care that fits your unique situation.
Outpatient Services Available at Embrace Psychiatric Wellness Center
- Individual Counseling: One-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist to address personal issues related to substance use, develop coping strategies, and set recovery goals.
- Group Therapy: Facilitated sessions where individuals share experiences and support each other in recovery. Topics may include coping skills, triggers, and relapse prevention.
- Family Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process to improve communication, address family dynamics, and support the individual’s recovery.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines behavioral therapy with medications to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, particularly for opioid or alcohol use disorders.
- Psychoeducation: Provides information about substance use disorders, the recovery process, and strategies for maintaining sobriety.
- Relapse Prevention Programs: Focus on identifying triggers and developing strategies to avoid relapse, including coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes.
Meet the Practice: At Embrace Psychiatric Center in Westfield and Wall Township, our team of mental health professionals offers treatments for a range of mental health conditions, including SUDs. If you are struggling with symptoms of either of these conditions, we are ready to listen to you and set up a personalized treatment plan. To request an appointment or learn more about us, get in touch with us at 908-923-3483.
Author: Sara Magnola Taner, Content creator and co-founder of Pearl St Services, providing marketing, design, and technology solutions for over 20 years.
