It is a complex condition that affects the person’s brain, body, and behavior. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 20 million people in the United States over the age of 12 experienced a substance use disorder in 2019. It is estimated that substance use disorders cost the United States $420 billion dollars a year. This article explores the symptoms, causes, stages, and treatment of substance dependence, also known as substance use disorder.
Commonly Used Substances
These are some of the most commonly used types of substances: For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
Depressants, which reduce anxiety and cause drowsiness. Depressants include alcohol as well as certain types of medications such as benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, and Ativan), barbiturates, chloral hydrate, and paraldehyde. Stimulants, which stimulate the brain and nervous system. Stimulants include drugs like cocaine and amphetamines. Amphetamines are also used in certain stimulant medications, like Ritalin, that help treat conditions like ADHD. Hallucinogens, which cause people to hear or see things that don’t exist. Hallucinogens include drugs such as LSD, psilocybin (commonly known as mushrooms), mescaline, and phencyclidine (known as PCP or angel dust). Opiates and narcotics, are strong painkillers that reduce pain, induce drowsiness, and produce feelings of well-being, happiness, and excitement. Opiates include drugs like heroin and opium, as well as pain-relieving medications, such as Vicodin and morphine. Marijuana, which produces a sense of happiness, calm, and relaxation.
Substance Dependence Symptoms
These are some of the symptoms and behaviors associated with substance dependence and substance use disorder:
Needing the substance on a daily basis Developing a tolerance to the substance and needing to take more of it over time to achieve the same effect Losing control over use of the substance and being unable to stop using it Experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon stopping one’s use of the substance Spending a lot of time procuring, using, and recovering from the aftereffects of the substance Using the substance in risky settings Missing school or work, or performing poorly Avoiding recreational and social activities due to substance use Continuing to use the substance despite negative consequences to one’s family, work, and health Making excuses to use the substance Using the substance when alone Resorting to secretive behaviors to hide one’s use of the substance Becoming hostile when confronted with one’s substance dependence Neglecting to eat and maintain personal hygiene
Stages of Substance Use
Substance use often progresses in stages, which can include:
Causes of Substance Dependence
According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), addictive substances like alcohol and drugs cause changes in the brain that trigger intense cravings for the substance. However, the APA explains that as the brain and body adapt to the effects of the substance, the person needs to consume more and more of it to achieve the same effect. This leads to a cycle of addiction and dependence that contributes to substance use disorder. A combination of factors can contribute to the risk of developing substance use disorder, including:
Social pressures Environmental stressors Genetic vulnerability Individual personality characteristics Mental health conditions
Diagnosing Substance Dependence
If you suspect you may have become physically dependent on a prescription medication that your healthcare provider has asked you to take, contact the physician who prescribed the medication to you. On the other hand, if you think you have become dependent on a substance such as alcohol, drugs, nicotine, or prescription medication that you’re not supposed to be taking, contact a healthcare provider such as your family doctor or primary care physician. They can diagnose your condition or refer you to a healthcare provider who can. Your healthcare provider will determine whether your symptoms match the criteria for substance use disorder listed in the DSM-5. Depending on how many symptoms you have, your condition may be classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
Substance Dependence Treatment
Treatment for substance dependence can vary depending on factors such as:
AgeMedical historySymptom severityDependence severityType of substance usedTolerance for medication, procedures, and other treatmentsLifestyle and personal preference
A Word From Verywell
Substance dependence and addiction are complex conditions; however, they are treatable. If you or a loved one are experiencing dependence, it’s important to seek help and treatment as soon as possible.
Detoxification, to help flush the substance out of the person’s system. The detox process may need to be undertaken at a hospital or treatment facility if the person is at risk of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms or health complications. Medication, to treat any withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings for certain substances, and prevent relapse. Therapy, to help the person explore their motivations and behaviors, cope with stressors and triggers, and address any other mental health conditions they may have. Therapy can be performed on an individual basis or group basis, and may involve partners or family members. Rehabilitation, or rehab, which involves staying in a treatment facility for a certain period of time. Mutual-aid groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA), or SMART Recovery, that follows a peer-based recovery model.
