Substance Use Disorder

Alcohol and drug use is one of the leading causes of preventable illnesses and premature death in America. Fortunately, substance use disorder (SUD), where you struggle with alcohol, drug, or tobacco usage, can be successfully treated. Michelle Mottern, PMHNP, FNP, and the team at Mosaic Brain Health in St. Petersburg, Florida, offer comprehensive substance abuse disorder care to adults and older children. The team creates a tailored treatment plan for you, which may include medication, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. To learn more, call the friendly staff today or schedule an appointment online. 

What is substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable complex condition where you have a problematic pattern of substance use that causes distress or impairs your life.

Substances may include alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs. If you have SUD, you may keep using the substance even when it’s causing you problems. In severe cases, you may have an addiction and not be able to stop even if you want to and try hard. 

It’s crucial to seek help as soon as you develop signs of SUD, as it can negatively impact your quality of life and lead to adverse mental and physical complications.

What are the symptoms of substance use disorder?

According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, you must have at least two symptoms over 12 months to receive a substance use disorder diagnosis. 

Providers group symptoms of SUD into four categories. 

Impaired control

You may experience a craving to use the substance. You might experience failed attempts to cut down or control your use of the substance. 

SUD may lead to distorted thinking and behaviors and cause changes in the areas of your brain that relate to judgment, decision-making, learning, and memory.

Social problems

You may fail to complete important tasks at work, home, or in school. You may avoid social or recreational activities because of your substance use.

Risky use

You may continue to use a substance in risky settings, even if you acknowledge the danger. 

Drug effects

You may build up a tolerance to the substance and need larger amounts to feel the same effects. You may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Many people experience SUD along with another psychiatric disorder, and substance abuse may trigger or worsen the condition. 

What are my substance use disorder treatment options?

Your Mosaic Brain Health provider performs a thorough evaluation of your medical history and behaviors surrounding substance use. 

The team collaborates with you on a treatment plan that may include:

• Motivational and cognitive therapy sessions
• Medications, patches, or gum to control cravings or prevent relapses
• Addiction withdrawal drugs like Suboxone®   
• Antidepressants
• A medication management plan
• Hospitalization for detoxification
• Residential treatment (rehab)
• Locating therapeutic communities or sober houses
• Recommending local groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Al-Anon 

To book a welcoming substance abuse disorder consultation, call Mosaic Brain Health today or use the online scheduling tool.