The term Substance Abuse Disorder (SUD) refers to a person’s inability to control their use of substances like alcohol and drugs. This can include illegal and prescription drugs. The condition affects people of all ages and races. It is more common among people who have a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. A person may also have a history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which are linked to the development of SUD.

A person has SUD if they continue to drink or use drugs despite the negative effects on their work, social life and health. They may also develop a tolerance to the substance and need increasing amounts to feel the same effect. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the substance. SUD is a serious medical condition that can be treated with therapy and medications.

People who have a SUD may be able to recover with help from family and friends, treatment programs, support groups or faith-based resources. However, a lot of people who have a SUD do not get the help they need. This is because SUD is a complex condition and can be difficult to diagnose. The SUD diagnosis is based on the number of criteria a person meets from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This includes signs, symptoms and behaviors that indicate a problem with using substances.

To be diagnosed with a SUD, a healthcare professional will perform a physical exam and take a medical and drug use history. They will also evaluate prescription drug monitoring program reports and may order blood tests to check for certain types of substance abuse and addiction. The healthcare professional will also ask about a person’s mental health history, as it is common for people to have SUD and another type of mental illness at the same time.

The most common symptoms of a SUD are drinking more than they should and having trouble controlling their drinking or using drugs. A person may also have difficulty meeting their responsibilities at work or home and might exhibit anger or aggression. Other symptoms can include secretive behavior to hide drug or alcohol use and sudden changes in mood, such as sadness or hostility.

People with a SUD are more likely to have a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. This is because many people who have a mental health condition develop a SUD as a way to cope with their symptoms or to self-medicate.

It is important to treat both a SUD and any co-occurring mental health conditions at the same time. This helps reduce the risk of relapse and improves the effectiveness of treatment. Treatment options can include short-term outpatient therapy, residential treatment and long-term therapeutic communities. These treatment options are available through county alcohol and other drug offices and private facilities. Often, these treatments are covered by insurance. If you or a loved one has a SUD, seek treatment as soon as possible.