Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders (SUDs) affect millions of people and can impact every area of life, from relationships to work and physical health. These disorders involve more than just using a substance; they reflect deeper struggles with dependence, coping, and mental health. The professional mental health team at Committed to Recovery in Memphis, Tennessee, has the expertise to understand what causes substance use disorders and how to treat them, helping patients experience healing and recovery. Call for an appointment or use the online scheduler today.

What are substance use disorders (SUDs)?

Substance use disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by an inability to control the use of drugs, alcohol, or other substances, despite consequences to your health, relationships, or responsibilities. 

The disorders range from mild to severe and often involve physical dependence, tolerance (needing more of the substance to get the same effect), and withdrawal symptoms when the substance is reduced or stopped. 

Substance use disorders affect brain chemistry and behavior, making it difficult to quit without support, even when you want to.

What substances fall into the category of substance use disorders?

Substance use disorders can involve a wide variety of legal and illegal substances, including:

• Alcohol – one of the most commonly misused substances
• Prescription medications – such as opioids (e.g., oxycodone, hydrocodone), benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium®, Xanax®), or stimulants (e.g., Adderall®)
• Illicit drugs –  like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy
• Nicotine and tobacco products
• Cannabis – though legal in some areas, excessive use can still lead to a disorder

Some people misuse more than one substance at a time, a condition known as polysubstance use.

What causes substance use disorders?

There’s no single cause of SUDs. Instead, they arise from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. 

Genetics can play a significant role. For example, if you have a family history of addiction, you may be more prone to developing a SUD. 

Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD often increase your risk. 

Environmental influences like early exposure to drugs, trauma, peer pressure, or high-stress situations can also contribute.

How are substance use disorders treated?

The Committed to Recovery team offers highly individualized treatment for substance use disorders, which may include a combination of approaches, such as:

• Detoxification – medically supervised withdrawal to manage symptoms safely
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – the use of medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone to reduce cravings or block effects
• Therapy – cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and other evidence-based approaches to help address thought patterns and behaviors
• Support groups – programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery to provide peer support
• Lifestyle changes and aftercare – participating in ongoing support, relapse prevention planning, and mental healthcare for long-term recovery

If you or a loved one has concerns about substance use disorders, reach out to Committed to Recovery for compassionate care and effective treatment. Call or book online today.