How do I know if I have a substance abuse disorder?
Substance abuse means that you use street drugs that are illegal, consume too much alcohol, abuse prescription painkillers (which may or may not be prescribed to you), or use too much of another substance. If you have a substance abuse disorder, you may find that you’re:
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Having extreme mood swings
- Eating more or less than normal
- Getting used to the effects of the substance
- Losing interest in hobbies or enjoyable activities
- Unable to function or work without the substance
Substance abuse doesn’t happen overnight. You may notice that you need to start combining drugs with alcohol over time, for instance, in order to achieve the same euphoric state. If any of these substance abuse warning signs seem familiar, it’s time to seek professional mental health care.
When should I see a mental health provider for substance abuse?
The compassionate mental health team at Thriving Center of Psychology encourages you to come in for an evaluation if you think you have a substance abuse disorder, or if your partner or loved one is starting to show signs of substance abuse.
It’s particularly important to get help for substance abuse issues if:
- You lose your job because of substance abuse
- You’re at risk of losing your family, as with a divorce
- You stop taking care of yourself or feel like giving up
- You’re participating in risky behaviors, such as gambling
- You’re spending money on drugs or alcohol before essential bills
Thriving Center of Psychology is dedicated to helping you get the substance abuse help you need in a nurturing and caring environment.
What is the treatment for substance abuse?
It takes time and patience to get through substance abuse. Your dedicated provider at Thriving Center of Psychology spends time getting to know you and your lifestyle so they can help you find treatment solutions to help you cope with substance abuse. Treatment plans may include:
- Online video therapy
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Neurofeedback (electroencephalographic or EEG biofeedback)
For more severe cases of substance abuse, you may benefit from a referral to inpatient care. But no matter which type of substance abuse treatment is right for you, the compassionate team at Thriving Center of Psychology cares for you every step of the way.
Before your substance abuse takes control of your life, see how the mental health professionals at Thriving Center of Psychology can help. Book your visit online or over the phone.
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