Addiction and Substance Use Disorders

What is addiction?

Addiction — clinically called substance use disorder — is a medical condition in which a person continues to use alcohol or drugs despite harmful consequences. It involves changes in brain systems related to reward, motivation, stress and self-control. It is treatable, and many people recover.

Signs

Signs of a substance use disorder can include:

• Using more, or for longer, than intended
• Wanting to cut down but being unable to
• Spending a lot of time obtaining, using or recovering from a substance
• Cravings
• Continuing to use despite problems at work, school, home or with health
• Needing more to get the same effect (tolerance), or withdrawal symptoms when stopping

These signs can occur with substance use disorders, but only a qualified professional can provide a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

Genetics, early exposure to substances, trauma, chronic stress and other mental health conditions are associated with a higher risk. Substance use disorders commonly occur alongside anxiety, depression and PTSD, and treating both together tends to work best.

Treatment

• Behavioral therapies such as CBT, motivational interviewing and contingency management.
• Medications for some substance use disorders, including opioid and alcohol use disorders.
• Medically supervised withdrawal when needed.
• Peer and family support, including mutual-help groups and family therapy.

Care can be outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential or inpatient depending on needs. See our guide to addiction treatment options.