When you first decide to drink or take a recreational drug, it may seem harmless. You may just want to see how it makes you feel.
However, the line between harmless and harmful gets blurred if you keep using that substance. It gets harder to stop until you feel you have no choice. At this point, addiction has set in.
Addiction is a disease — it affects how well your body functions, causes harmful side effects and can even be life-threatening. Like other diseases, addiction can be treated, but the first essential step is recognizing the signs so you can find help.
What is substance use disorder?
Substance use is considered a disorder when you can no longer control it. People with substance use disorder cannot stop using drugs or alcohol, even when it is harming their physical health, relationships and quality of life.
It affects your brain physically, changing how it works. The urges you feel when you have an addiction come from changes in your brain that can make quitting more difficult.
Addiction can affect how your brain handles:
- Behavior control
- Decision-making
- Judgment
- Memory and learning
- Pleasure and cravings
Who does substance use disorder happen to?
Anyone can develop substance use disorder, but some people are at higher risk for addiction than others. This is due to certain risk factors, such as:
- Genetics: 50% of a person's risk for developing addiction may involve genetics. If your parents or siblings have experienced addiction, you have a higher risk of it happening to you.
- Mental health disorders: Many people with substance use disorders also have a mental health issue, such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Having mental health issues or addiction in your family does not automatically mean you will develop substance use disorder, but it does mean you are at higher risk for it.
Signs and symptoms of substance use disorder
The symptoms of substance use disorder are not straightforward, and they can vary from person to person. Ask yourself:
Have I …
- Felt (or been told) that I should stop drinking or using drugs?
- Felt guilty about how much I drink alcohol or use drugs?
- Woken up wanting to drink alcohol or use drugs right away?
If you answer "yes" to any of the questions, it is possible you have developed a habit that could lead to addiction. Read on to see if you recognize yourself in the four types of substance use disorder symptoms:
Dangerous use
In the beginning, substance use is a choice, and you may feel capable of stopping. However, you may notice changes to your behavior, such as:
- Continuing to use alcohol or drugs even when you know it is harmful
- Placing yourself in unsafe situations because of your need for alcohol or drugs
- Doing things (or being tempted to do things) you wouldn’t normally do, such as stealing money, so you can pay for drugs
- Cravings and withdrawal
When you first use a substance, a small amount may give you a buzz or a high. However, as you continue to use drugs or alcohol, your body builds a tolerance to these substances. You need larger amounts to achieve a high, and if you stop suddenly, you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms vary but can include:
- Sweating
- Trouble sleeping
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lack of control
Your body's growing dependence on drugs or alcohol may cause feelings or actions that make you uncomfortable, such as:
- Inability to control your cravings and urges
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or control your substance use
- Feeling scared at the thought of running out of your drug or alcohol
- Social problems
Your substance use becomes more apparent to others and may directly affect your interaction with friends and family. Signs may include:
- Inability to complete important tasks at work or school
- Becoming less social and not enjoying the same leisure activities
- Strained relationships with friends and family
Where to get help with substance use
If you suspect you may have an addiction, talk honestly with your doctor. Your doctor is required by state and federal law to keep your medical records confidential, including information about substance use.
Your doctor can check your physical health and connect you with local and national resources, such as:
California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
The DHCS provides directories for substance use disorder services in the area. The residential and outpatient facilities and programs listed are licensed and certified. You can also find links to narcotic treatment programs for people addicted to opiates and driving under the influence (DUI) programs.
Health Services of Los Angeles County
The Service & Bed Availability Tool (SBAT) lets you search by agency name or address to find available substance use services near you. Filter your search by treatment and service type. If you want to speak with someone directly, call their Substance Abuse Service Helpline (SASH) at (844) 804-7500.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
SAMHSA supports programs and services devoted to behavioral health, including substance use disorder. They sponsor FindTreatment.gov — a confidential and anonymous resource for people seeking treatment for substance use disorder. They also offer a directory that includes resources for veterans, concerned parents and those needing treatment for opioids. You can reach SAMHSA's free, 24/7 national helpline by calling (800) 662-HELP.
Contact us
If you need help managing substance use disorder, find a doctor at MLK Community Healthcare or call (424) 529-6755 today to make an appointment.
[GR2]MLK team: we turned these 4 sections into bulleted lists so they are easier for the reader to scan the symptoms
[GR4]MLKCH: We think it's important to mention this because people might be reluctant to seek care from a doctor, thinking they'll get in trouble. Please let us know if you'd like to rephrase.
[LE5]This is good to mention.