Substance use disorder is a medical condition, not a moral failing. It changes the brain in ways that make quitting difficult, even when you want to. But recovery is possible, and millions of people are living proof.
Substance use disorder is characterized by an inability to control use of a substance (drugs or alcohol) despite harmful consequences. It ranges from mild to severe and can develop with legal or illegal substances.
About 46.8 million people in the U.S. had a substance use disorder in 2022. It affects all ages, genders, races, and economic backgrounds. Substance use often begins in adolescence or young adulthood.
Recognizing symptoms is the first step toward getting help. Not everyone experiences all symptoms.
Addiction is complex, resulting from multiple interacting factors:
Effective treatments are available. Many people benefit from a combination of approaches.
Medically supervised withdrawal helps you safely stop using substances. Medications can ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone help manage cravings and withdrawal for opioid use disorder. Other medications help with alcohol dependence.
Helps identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and change thinking patterns that contribute to substance use.
Strengthens personal motivation to change and creates a plan for recovery.
12-step programs like AA or NA, SMART Recovery, and other peer support groups provide community and accountability.
Intensive programs provide 24/7 care in a substance-free environment for severe addiction or when outpatient treatment hasn't worked.
These strategies can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Early recovery requires significant lifestyle changes:
Cravings are normal and can be managed without using:
Most people relapse at least once. Having a plan helps you get back on track quickly:
Supporting someone with substance use disorder is challenging. Your care matters, but remember you can't control their recovery.
"I'm concerned about your substance use. Can we talk?"
"I love you and I'm worried. How can I support you?"
"I've noticed changes that concern me. Are you okay?"
"I'm here if you want to talk about getting help."
people in the U.S. had a substance use disorder in 2022
received treatment in the past year
drug overdose deaths occurred in 2021
is the relapse rate for substance use disorders, similar to other chronic diseases
Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
Excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes with daily activities.
A condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or call 988 for immediate support.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Substance use disorder is a medical condition, not a moral failing. It changes the brain in ways that make quitting difficult, even when you want to. But recovery is possible, and millions of people are living proof.
Substance use disorder is characterized by an inability to control use of a substance (drugs or alcohol) despite harmful consequences. It ranges from mild to severe and can develop with legal or illegal substances.
About 46.8 million people in the U.S. had a substance use disorder in 2022. It affects all ages, genders, races, and economic backgrounds. Substance use often begins in adolescence or young adulthood.
Recognizing symptoms is the first step toward getting help. Not everyone experiences all symptoms.
Addiction is complex, resulting from multiple interacting factors:
Effective treatments are available. Many people benefit from a combination of approaches.
Medically supervised withdrawal helps you safely stop using substances. Medications can ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone help manage cravings and withdrawal for opioid use disorder. Other medications help with alcohol dependence.
Helps identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and change thinking patterns that contribute to substance use.
Strengthens personal motivation to change and creates a plan for recovery.
12-step programs like AA or NA, SMART Recovery, and other peer support groups provide community and accountability.
Intensive programs provide 24/7 care in a substance-free environment for severe addiction or when outpatient treatment hasn't worked.
These strategies can help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Early recovery requires significant lifestyle changes:
Cravings are normal and can be managed without using:
Most people relapse at least once. Having a plan helps you get back on track quickly:
Supporting someone with substance use disorder is challenging. Your care matters, but remember you can't control their recovery.
"I'm concerned about your substance use. Can we talk?"
"I love you and I'm worried. How can I support you?"
"I've noticed changes that concern me. Are you okay?"
"I'm here if you want to talk about getting help."
people in the U.S. had a substance use disorder in 2022
received treatment in the past year
drug overdose deaths occurred in 2021
is the relapse rate for substance use disorders, similar to other chronic diseases
Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
Excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that interferes with daily activities.
A condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or call 988 for immediate support.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.