Substance-related and addictive disorders are mental health conditions involving patterns of substance use or behaviors that cause significant distress, impaired functioning, or harmful consequences. These conditions may involve alcohol, prescription medications, illicit substances, or certain behavioral addictions. They can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, physical health, and ability to manage daily responsibilities.
A substance-related disorder is not defined only by how often someone uses a substance. Mental health professionals consider factors such as loss of control, cravings, continued use despite negative effects, withdrawal symptoms, and the impact on everyday life. Some people may recognize concerns early, while others may seek support after substance use has created significant challenges.
Addiction is a complex health condition influenced by multiple factors, including biology, genetics, mental health, life experiences, and environment. It is not simply a matter of willpower or personal failure. Organizations such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse describe substance use disorders as treatable conditions involving changes in brain function, behavior, and decision-making.
Many individuals with substance-related disorders also experience other mental health concerns. Depression, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may occur alongside substance use concerns and can influence treatment needs.
Treatment approaches vary based on each person’s situation. Care may include therapy, medication support when appropriate, psychiatric care, and recovery-focused services. A professional evaluation can help determine which options may be most suitable.
Key Points About Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
- Substance-related and addictive disorders involve patterns of use or behavior that create significant problems in daily life.
- Symptoms may include cravings, difficulty controlling use, withdrawal, and continued use despite harm.
- Biological, psychological, and environmental factors may influence vulnerability.
- Treatment can include therapy, medication support, psychiatric care, and ongoing recovery support.
- Professional evaluation can help identify appropriate care based on individual needs.
Understanding these conditions can help reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support when substance use begins affecting health, safety, or quality of life. The information in this article is educational and does not replace an evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation from a qualified healthcare professional.
What Are Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders?
Substance-related and addictive disorders are conditions in which substance use or certain behaviors lead to significant impairment, distress, or difficulty managing daily life. These disorders are diagnosed by healthcare professionals based on patterns of symptoms, their severity, and how they affect a person’s functioning.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision uses the term substance use disorder to describe problematic patterns involving substances such as alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, and other drugs. The diagnosis considers symptoms such as reduced control over use, strong urges, continued use despite consequences, and disruption in important areas of life.
Substance use exists on a spectrum. Some people may use substances without developing a disorder, while others may develop patterns that require professional support. The presence of a disorder depends on the overall impact of use rather than a single event or behavior.
How Substance Use Disorder Differs From Substance Use
Substance use refers to consuming alcohol, medications, or other substances. It becomes a clinical concern when the pattern of use begins affecting health, responsibilities, relationships, or personal well-being.
A person may experience a substance use disorder when they have difficulty controlling use, repeatedly try to stop without success, spend significant time obtaining or recovering from substance use, or continue using despite knowing it causes problems.
For example, taking a medication exactly as prescribed is different from misusing that medication or feeling unable to control its use. Similarly, occasional alcohol consumption is different from a pattern where drinking creates health, relationship, or daily functioning problems.
The difference between substance use and a disorder is important because it allows providers to focus on the person’s actual needs rather than assumptions. An evaluation looks at the full pattern, including physical symptoms, emotional health, behavior changes, and life impact.
Types of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Substance-related disorders can involve different substances, and each type may create different health concerns. Providers consider the specific substance involved when evaluating symptoms and recommending treatment approaches.
| Type of Disorder | Examples | Possible Areas Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol-related disorders | Alcohol Use Disorder | Health, relationships, daily responsibilities |
| Drug-related disorders | Opioid Use Disorder, Stimulant Use Disorder | Cravings, withdrawal, functioning |
| Prescription medication-related disorders | Certain prescription drugs when misused | Physical health, safety, dependence concerns |
| Behavioral addiction | Gambling Disorder | Impulse control, finances, relationships |
Behavioral addictions differ from substance-related disorders because they do not involve consuming a substance. However, some behavioral patterns, such as gambling disorder, are recognized as addictive disorders because they can create significant impairment and loss of control.
Understanding the type of disorder helps providers develop a treatment approach that addresses both the addictive behavior and any related mental health concerns.
What Symptoms May Indicate a Substance-Related or Addictive Disorder?
Substance-related and addictive disorders may involve changes in behavior, emotions, physical health, and daily functioning. Common signs include difficulty controlling substance use, strong cravings, continuing use despite negative consequences, and problems affecting relationships, work, education, or personal responsibilities.
Symptoms can differ depending on the substance involved, the person’s health history, and the severity of the condition. Some individuals may notice concerns developing gradually, while others may experience more noticeable changes in a shorter period. A healthcare provider evaluates the complete pattern rather than relying on one symptom alone.
Recognizing possible warning signs can help individuals and families seek support earlier. A concern about substance use does not automatically mean someone has a disorder, but an evaluation can provide clarity and help identify appropriate next steps.
Behavioral and Emotional Signs
Behavioral changes are often among the first signs that substance use may be affecting a person’s life. Someone may spend increasing amounts of time obtaining, using, or recovering from a substance. They may also find it difficult to reduce use even when they want to make changes.
Common behavioral signs may include:
- Using a substance more often or in larger amounts than intended
- Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop
- Strong urges or cravings that feel difficult to manage
- Spending significant time focused on obtaining or using a substance
- Continuing use despite problems at home, work, school, or in relationships
Emotional changes may also occur. Some individuals experience increased irritability, mood changes, anxiety, low motivation, or difficulty managing stress. These symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions, which is why professional assessment is important.
Substance use may sometimes become a way of coping with difficult emotions or experiences. For individuals experiencing trauma-related symptoms, care that addresses both concerns may be helpful. For example, treatment focused on trauma symptoms through trauma and PTSD therapy may be considered when clinically appropriate.
Substance-related disorders can also affect decision-making and priorities. A person may begin spending less time on relationships, hobbies, responsibilities, or activities that were previously meaningful.
Physical Signs and Changes in Daily Life
Physical signs of a substance-related disorder depend on the substance involved and the person’s pattern of use. Some individuals may develop tolerance, meaning they need increasing amounts of a substance to experience the same effect. Others may experience withdrawal symptoms when reducing or stopping use.
Withdrawal symptoms vary widely. Depending on the substance, they may include changes in mood, sleep problems, physical discomfort, restlessness, or other health concerns. Some withdrawal situations can be medically serious, making professional guidance important.
Changes in daily functioning may also indicate that substance use is becoming harmful. These changes may include:
- Declining performance at work or school
- Increased conflict with family members or friends
- Financial difficulties related to substance use
- Neglecting personal responsibilities
- Reduced interest in important activities
Physical health changes may include disrupted sleep, unexplained injuries, changes in appearance, or reduced attention to personal care. These signs are not specific to substance-related disorders and may have many possible causes, so providers consider them alongside other information.
When evaluating symptoms, clinicians consider how substance use affects the whole person. This includes physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, and daily functioning. This approach helps distinguish temporary difficulties from concerns that may benefit from ongoing treatment and support.
For individuals experiencing mood-related symptoms alongside substance concerns, addressing conditions such as depression may also be part of care. Support such as depression treatment may be considered when depressive symptoms affect recovery or daily functioning.
What Causes Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders?
Substance-related and addictive disorders develop through a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. There is no single cause that explains why one person develops a disorder while another person does not. Instead, multiple influences may interact over time, affecting vulnerability, coping patterns, and responses to substances.
Having a risk factor does not mean someone will develop a substance-related disorder. For example, experiencing trauma, stress, or having a family history of substance problems may increase vulnerability for some individuals, but these factors do not determine a person’s outcome.
Understanding the factors involved can help reduce stigma and support more effective treatment. Addiction involves complex interactions between brain processes, behavior, emotional health, and life circumstances rather than being a simple issue of personal choice.
Biological and Genetic Factors
Biological factors can influence how a person responds to substances and their potential vulnerability to developing problematic patterns of use. Genetics may contribute to differences in how individuals experience the effects of substances, including sensitivity to rewarding effects, stress responses, and impulse control.
Substances can affect brain systems involved in reward, motivation, learning, memory, and decision-making. With repeated substance exposure, these systems may be affected in ways that contribute to cravings, difficulty controlling use, and continued use despite harmful consequences.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that addiction involves changes in brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control. However, these changes do not mean recovery is impossible. The brain and behavior can respond to treatment, support, and healthier patterns over time.
Other biological factors may also influence treatment needs. A person’s physical health, medications, age, and the specific substance involved can affect how providers evaluate symptoms and recommend care.
Environmental and Psychological Factors
Environmental experiences can influence a person’s relationship with substances. Factors such as chronic stress, difficult life circumstances, exposure to substance use within close relationships, and limited access to support may increase vulnerability for some individuals.
Psychological factors can also play a role. Some people may use substances as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions, painful experiences, anxiety, or symptoms related to trauma. While substances may appear to provide short-term relief, they can create additional challenges over time.
Trauma is one factor associated with increased risk for substance-related concerns, but it is not the only explanation. Many people who experience trauma do not develop addiction, and many people with substance-related disorders have different contributing factors.
Mental health conditions may also overlap with substance use concerns. Depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD can occur alongside substance-related disorders and may affect how symptoms appear or how treatment is planned.
For individuals experiencing anxiety symptoms that interfere with daily life or recovery, care focused on emotional regulation and symptom management, such as anxiety treatment, may be considered when appropriate.
The relationship between mental health and substance use can vary from person to person. Some individuals may develop mental health symptoms before substance-related concerns, while others may experience emotional difficulties connected with substance use. A professional evaluation helps providers understand these factors together and create a treatment approach based on individual needs.
How Are Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders Diagnosed?
Substance-related and addictive disorders are diagnosed through a professional assessment that considers substance use patterns, symptoms, health history, and the impact on daily functioning. A diagnosis is not based only on whether someone uses a substance; providers evaluate whether the pattern creates significant distress, impairment, or difficulty managing important areas of life.
Mental health professionals use established clinical criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision when assessing substance use disorders. The evaluation may consider factors such as cravings, difficulty controlling use, continued use despite negative effects, time spent using or recovering from substances, and changes in responsibilities or relationships.
A thorough assessment helps providers understand the full picture. Symptoms such as mood changes, sleep problems, anxiety, or changes in behavior may have multiple possible explanations, including substance use, another mental health condition, a medical concern, or a combination of factors.
Seeking an assessment does not mean someone will automatically receive a diagnosis. It provides an opportunity to understand concerns, discuss treatment options, and identify what type of support may be appropriate.
What Providers Consider During an Assessment
During an evaluation, providers may ask about the type of substance involved, frequency of use, amount used, duration of use, and situations where substance use has affected daily life. They may also discuss cravings, withdrawal experiences, previous attempts to reduce use, and factors that make stopping or reducing use difficult.
A provider may review how substance use affects different areas, including:
- Physical health and safety
- Work, education, or daily responsibilities
- Relationships and social functioning
- Emotional well-being
- Previous treatment experiences
Medical history is also an important part of the assessment. Some substances can interact with medications, affect existing health conditions, or create risks that require careful monitoring. Understanding a person’s overall health helps providers make safer treatment recommendations.
A psychiatric assessment may be helpful when substance use concerns occur alongside emotional or behavioral symptoms. A psychiatric evaluation can help providers understand symptoms, identify possible co-occurring conditions, and develop an appropriate care plan.
Assessment may also include screening for other mental health conditions. This is important because treating only one concern may leave other symptoms unaddressed.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Substance-related disorders can occur alongside other mental health conditions, a situation often described as co-occurring disorders. When multiple concerns are present, providers consider how each condition may influence the other.
For example, someone experiencing depression may use substances while attempting to manage low mood, loss of interest, or emotional distress. Another person with anxiety symptoms may use substances in an effort to temporarily reduce worry or tension. These patterns can become complicated because substance use may worsen certain symptoms over time.
Conditions such as PTSD, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression may affect treatment planning. A person with attention-related symptoms, for example, may benefit from assessment and support related to ADHD when those symptoms affect daily functioning.
For individuals who need support with attention-related concerns, ADHD therapy may be considered as part of a broader treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
The National Institute of Mental Health recognizes that mental health conditions can interact with substance use concerns, making accurate assessment and coordinated care important.
Identifying co-occurring conditions allows providers to create a more complete treatment approach that considers a person’s mental health, physical health, and recovery goals together.
What Treatments Help With Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders?
Treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders may include therapy, medication support, psychiatric care, and recovery services based on a person’s symptoms, health history, substance use patterns, and personal goals. There is no single approach that works for everyone, so providers develop treatment plans based on individual needs.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration recognizes that effective substance use treatment may involve a combination of behavioral therapies, medications when appropriate, and support services that address the person’s overall health and recovery needs.
Treatment may focus on several goals, including reducing harmful substance use, managing cravings, improving emotional health, strengthening coping skills, and supporting healthier daily functioning. The type and intensity of care may vary depending on the substance involved, severity of symptoms, medical needs, and available support systems.
Recovery is often an ongoing process rather than a single event. Some individuals may need continued therapy, medication monitoring, or long-term support to maintain progress and address changing needs.
Therapy Approaches Used in Addiction Treatment
Psychotherapy is a common component of treatment for many individuals with substance-related disorders. Therapy can help people understand patterns connected with substance use, identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and build healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one approach frequently used in behavioral health care. CBT focuses on identifying connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while helping individuals develop practical skills for responding to challenges.
Motivational Interviewing is another approach that helps individuals explore their reasons for change and strengthen motivation toward recovery. This approach can be useful because readiness for change may vary from person to person.
Other therapy approaches may include family therapy, supportive counseling, and trauma-focused care when appropriate. For individuals whose substance use concerns are connected with traumatic experiences, addressing trauma symptoms may be an important part of treatment planning.
Therapy may also help individuals recognize situations that increase the risk of returning to substance use. Developing coping skills, improving communication, and building supportive relationships can contribute to a stronger recovery plan.
Medication Support and Medical Management
Medication may be used as part of treatment for certain substance-related disorders. When appropriate, medications can help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, or support recovery by affecting specific biological processes involved in substance use.
Examples include medications used for some individuals with opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder. The choice of medication depends on factors such as the substance involved, medical history, current symptoms, possible side effects, and treatment goals.
Medication support is typically most effective when combined with other forms of care, such as therapy and ongoing monitoring. A qualified healthcare provider evaluates whether medication may be appropriate and follows the person’s response over time.
For individuals who need continued psychiatric support, medication management may help monitor symptoms, evaluate medication effectiveness, and make adjustments when clinically appropriate.
Treatment decisions should always be personalized. Providers consider potential benefits, risks, interactions with other medications, and the individual’s preferences before recommending medication-based approaches.
Telehealth Options for Addiction and Mental Health Care
Telehealth psychiatry allows individuals to receive certain mental health services through secure virtual appointments. For some people, this approach may improve access to care when transportation, scheduling, location, or other barriers make in-person appointments difficult.
Through telehealth services, providers may offer psychiatric assessments, medication discussions, symptom monitoring, and ongoing mental health support when appropriate. Availability depends on individual needs, clinical considerations, and applicable state regulations.
Virtual care may be useful for individuals who need consistent follow-up while managing recovery or co-occurring mental health concerns. Regular appointments allow providers to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment recommendations when needed.
For people seeking flexible access to psychiatric support, telehealth psychiatry may provide an option for continuing mental health care remotely.
Telehealth is not appropriate for every situation. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms, medical emergencies, or immediate safety concerns may require urgent in-person evaluation or emergency services.
When Should Someone Seek Professional Help for Substance-Related Concerns?
Professional support may be helpful when substance use or addictive behaviors begin affecting a person’s health, safety, relationships, responsibilities, or ability to manage daily life. Someone does not need to wait until a situation becomes severe before seeking an evaluation. Early support can help clarify concerns and identify appropriate treatment options.
Many people delay seeking help because of stigma, uncertainty, or fear of judgment. However, substance-related disorders are recognized health conditions that can benefit from compassionate, evidence-based care. A qualified provider can help assess symptoms, discuss available options, and determine what level of support may be appropriate.
Signs that professional help may be beneficial include difficulty controlling substance use, repeated attempts to stop without success, strong cravings, continued use despite harmful consequences, or noticeable changes in mood, behavior, relationships, or daily responsibilities.
A professional evaluation can also be useful when someone is unsure whether their substance use has become problematic. Providers can help distinguish between temporary challenges and patterns that may require ongoing support.
Signs That Professional Evaluation May Be Helpful
A person may benefit from seeking support when substance use begins interfering with important areas of life. This may include problems at work or school, conflicts with loved ones, financial difficulties, declining health, or reduced participation in activities that were previously meaningful.
Additional signs may include:
- Feeling unable to reduce or stop substance use despite wanting to
- Spending significant time thinking about, obtaining, or recovering from substance use
- Experiencing strong urges that are difficult to manage
- Continuing substance use despite physical, emotional, or relationship problems
- Avoiding responsibilities because of substance use
- Noticing changes in mood, sleep, or behavior connected with use
It can also be helpful to seek professional guidance when substance use appears connected to emotional struggles. Some individuals use substances while coping with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health concerns. Addressing these underlying concerns may be an important part of improving overall well-being.
Support from family members or loved ones can also encourage someone to seek help. Conversations focused on concern, compassion, and safety are generally more supportive than criticism or blame.
Emergency Support for Substance-Related Crises
Some substance-related situations require immediate medical attention. Emergency support may be needed if someone experiences a suspected overdose, severe confusion, loss of consciousness, dangerous withdrawal symptoms, or an immediate risk of harming themselves or others.
In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department. Emergency professionals can provide urgent medical care and help connect individuals with additional support.
If someone is experiencing thoughts of suicide, severe emotional distress, or a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available in the United States by calling or texting 988. The service provides crisis support for individuals experiencing emotional distress and for loved ones seeking guidance.
Substance-related crises can feel overwhelming, but immediate support is available. Receiving urgent help can protect safety and create an opportunity to connect with longer-term treatment and recovery resources.
A professional evaluation can also help determine ongoing care needs after a crisis. Depending on the situation, this may include therapy, psychiatric follow-up, medication support, or other recovery services.
Recovery and Long-Term Support for Addictive Disorders
Recovery from substance-related and addictive disorders involves ongoing care, support, coping strategies, and treatment adjustments based on individual needs. While recovery looks different for each person, many individuals benefit from continued attention to mental health, physical well-being, relationships, and daily routines.
Substance-related disorders can affect many areas of life, so long-term support often focuses on more than stopping substance use alone. Treatment may also address emotional regulation, stress management, communication skills, healthy routines, and underlying mental health concerns that may influence recovery.
Recovery is not a single event or a one-size-fits-all process. Some individuals may need ongoing therapy, medication monitoring, or regular follow-up appointments, while others may benefit from different levels of support at different stages.
The goal of long-term care is to help individuals build sustainable strategies that support their health and personal goals. Treatment plans can change over time as symptoms, circumstances, and recovery needs change.
Building a Sustainable Recovery Plan
A recovery plan is developed around a person’s specific needs, strengths, and goals. Providers may help individuals identify situations that increase the risk of returning to substance use and develop healthier responses to stress, cravings, or difficult emotions.
Important parts of a recovery plan may include:
- Developing coping strategies for triggers and cravings
- Maintaining regular mental health support when needed
- Strengthening healthy relationships and support systems
- Creating routines that support physical and emotional well-being
- Addressing co-occurring mental health symptoms
Managing emotional health can be an important part of maintaining recovery. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma-related distress, or other conditions may affect coping abilities and daily functioning. Addressing these concerns alongside substance use can provide more complete support.
For individuals who experience ongoing anxiety symptoms during recovery, care focused on emotional regulation and symptom management may be helpful. Support such as anxiety treatment may be considered when clinically appropriate.
Support systems can also play an important role. Trusted family members, friends, peer support groups, and healthcare professionals may provide encouragement and accountability. The type of support that works best depends on the person’s preferences, needs, and circumstances.
Managing Setbacks and Continuing Care
Some individuals may experience a return to substance use after a period of improvement. This is sometimes referred to as relapse. A return to use does not mean treatment has failed; it may indicate that additional support, treatment adjustments, or new coping strategies are needed.
When setbacks occur, healthcare providers can help review what contributed to the change and identify ways to strengthen the recovery plan. This may include adjusting therapy approaches, increasing support, addressing untreated symptoms, or modifying medication strategies when appropriate.
Continued care can also help monitor changes over time. Regular follow-up allows providers to evaluate progress, discuss challenges, and update treatment recommendations based on current needs.
Maintaining recovery often involves caring for overall health. Sleep, stress management, meaningful activities, healthy relationships, and consistent mental health care can all contribute to long-term well-being.
For individuals who need continued psychiatric guidance, ongoing support such as follow-up psychiatric care can help monitor changing symptoms and treatment needs.
Seeking support is a positive step toward improving health and quality of life. With appropriate care, many individuals are able to develop healthier patterns, strengthen coping skills, and continue working toward their recovery goals.
Conclusion
Substance-related and addictive disorders are complex health conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, behaviors, emotions, relationships, and daily functioning. They are influenced by multiple factors, including biology, mental health, life experiences, and environment.
Recognizing possible signs early can help individuals seek appropriate support. Symptoms such as difficulty controlling substance use, cravings, continued use despite harm, or changes in daily responsibilities may indicate that a professional evaluation could be helpful.
Treatment approaches vary from person to person. Therapy, medication support when appropriate, psychiatric care, and ongoing recovery services may all play a role depending on individual needs and goals. Addressing co-occurring concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma-related symptoms can also be an important part of comprehensive care.
If substance use is affecting your health, relationships, or quality of life, speaking with a qualified mental health professional can help clarify available options. Support is available, and seeking care is an important step toward improving overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is addiction considered a mental health disorder?
Yes. Substance-related and addictive disorders are recognized mental health conditions involving patterns of substance use or behaviors that cause significant distress, impairment, or problems in daily life. These conditions involve biological, psychological, and environmental factors and can benefit from professional treatment.
What is the difference between addiction and substance use disorder?
Substance use disorder is the clinical term used by mental health professionals to describe problematic patterns of substance use that affect functioning and well-being. The term addiction is commonly used to describe more severe patterns involving loss of control, cravings, and continued use despite negative consequences.
What are the first signs of a substance use disorder?
Early signs may include difficulty controlling use, strong cravings, unsuccessful attempts to reduce use, spending significant time focused on substances, and continuing use despite problems affecting health, relationships, work, or responsibilities.
Can mental health conditions increase the risk of substance-related disorders?
Some mental health conditions may occur alongside substance-related disorders or influence vulnerability. Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD may affect symptoms and treatment needs. A professional evaluation can help identify how these concerns may interact.
How are substance-related and addictive disorders treated?
Treatment may include therapy, medication support when appropriate, psychiatric care, and recovery services. The recommended approach depends on factors such as the substance involved, symptom severity, medical history, and personal goals.
What happens during an addiction evaluation?
During an evaluation, a provider reviews substance use patterns, symptoms, health history, emotional well-being, and the impact on daily life. The goal is to understand the person’s needs and determine appropriate treatment options.
Can substance use treatment be provided through telehealth?
Some mental health services, including psychiatric appointments and medication-related care, may be available through telehealth when appropriate. A provider can determine whether virtual care is suitable based on symptoms, safety needs, and treatment goals.
Medical Review Disclosure
Medical Review: Reviewed by Dr. Gloria Fosu, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Review Date: July 14, 2026
This article was reviewed by a qualified mental health professional for medical accuracy and alignment with current behavioral health information. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional diagnosis, treatment recommendations, or emergency medical care.
Call to Action
If substance use or addictive behaviors are affecting your daily life, relationships, or emotional well-being, professional support can help you better understand your options.
Arthur Behavioral Health provides mental health services designed to support individuals experiencing behavioral health concerns through personalized evaluation and treatment planning. Contact our team to learn more about available care options.
References
- National Institute on Drug Abuse — Information on addiction science, substance use disorders, and treatment approaches.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration — Guidance on substance use treatment, recovery support, and behavioral health resources.
- National Institute of Mental Health — Information on mental health conditions and co-occurring disorders.
- American Psychiatric Association — Clinical information related to psychiatric conditions and diagnostic terminology.
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision — Diagnostic criteria used by mental health professionals.
