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If you’re dependent on drugs, alcohol, or nicotine, help is available at Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, in Chandler, Arizona, and Boise, Idaho. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Frances Spink, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP-BC, treats substance use disorders in children, teenagers, and adults with medication management and psychotherapy. Schedule an in-person or telepsychiatry evaluation by phone or request one online today.
What is substance use disorder?
Substance use disorder limits your ability to stop using harmful substances. It’s characterized by patterns of misuse that cause distress and often physical health problems when it’s not treated. The disorder can be mild, moderate, or severe. However, any form of substance use disorder can become problematic in your professional and personal life.
Which symptoms does substance use disorder cause?
Substance use disorder can lead to:
- Inability to stop using harmful substances
- Withdrawal symptoms when quitting
- Desiring more of a substance for the same effects
- Being drunk or high
- Frequent accidents
- Physical health problems
- Strong urges for harmful substances
- Social withdrawal
- Mood swings
Substance misuse can dramatically impair your quality of life. Substances that can cause problems include marijuana, alcohol, hallucinogens, sedatives, pain medicines, inhalants, tobacco products, and stimulants.
What things increase the risk of substance use disorder?
Risk factors for substance use disorder include:
- Family history of substance misuse
- Trying highly addictive drugs
- Some personality traits
- Using substances at an early age
- Anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders
- Being male
- Being 18-25 years old
- Peer pressure
- Trauma
- Stress
- Brain chemistry changes
Substance use disorder is common, affecting more than 20 million people in the United States. This includes about 20% of people with depression or an anxiety disorder. Tobacco use disorder is the most widespread substance use disorder.
How is substance use disorder diagnosed?
Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, provides in-person and telepsychiatry mental health evaluations that determine if you have a substance use disorder or other mental health concerns. The practice uses GeneSight® genetic testing to determine which medications are likely the most effective based on your genes. You might also take a drug test.
How is substance use disorder treated?
Treating substance use disorder typically involves lifestyle changes, medication management, and psychotherapy. Medication reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Dr. Spink offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and other therapies to help you overcome addictions to toxic substances. She follows up virtually or in-person to ensure long-term success.
Call Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, or request an appointment online to schedule an in-person or telepsychiatry evaluation today.