What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder is a neurological (brain) disease that leads people to seek and take certain substances, even when doing so has negative consequences. Sometimes called addiction, substance use disorder is not a choice or a moral failing. It’s a treatable medical condition, and we’re here to help. 

If you’re living with substance use disorder, it’s not your fault, and there is hope. At Henry Ford Health, our addiction medicine program emphasizes compassionate care, offers personal choice and respects your dignity. Recovery is possible with the right medical care, therapy and support. 

Key features and signs of addiction or substance use disorder

Substance use disorders look different for everyone. However, some general signs may include: 

• Fixation on the substance: You may be preoccupied with thoughts of the substance or have intense cravings. Over time, many people spend more and more time thinking about when and how to get the substance they’re addicted to.
• Inability to stop: Even if you want to stop, it feels impossible. You may also try to hide the substance use or lie to loved ones about it.
• Increased need: Eventually, your tolerance for the substance increases. You need more and more of it to get the desired effects.
• Loss of control: It’s common to feel helpless and like you have no control over your actions. Many people say they feel depressed, guilty or overwhelmed.
• Personal side effects: Substance use may start to affect your career, physical health or personal relationships. It becomes hard to fulfill your responsibilities.
• Relationship difficulties: Loved ones may express concern about your substance use and behavior.
• Withdrawal: If you stop using the substance, you experience physical and emotional withdrawal. You may become anxious and irritable or experience sweating, shaking or vomiting.

Who is at risk of substance use disorder?

Many people are potentially at risk for addiction or substance use disorder. There is no single cause for the condition. It’s important to understand that the disorder is a brain condition, and it’s not your fault if you struggle with it. 

There are some factors that can contribute to the development of a substance use disorder, including: 

• Environment: Access to substances can make a big difference in your chances of developing a disorder. For example, if you have friends or family who regularly use certain substances, you may be more likely to also use them.
• Genetics: Having a family history of substance use disorder can make you more vulnerable to it.
• Life events: Experiencing traumatic and stressful events can make you more likely to experience substance use disorder.
• Mental health conditions: Studies have shown links between substance use disorder and specific mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. 

Types of substance use disorders we treat 

At Henry Ford Health, we care for people dealing with all types of substance use disorders. Some of the most common substance use disorders we treat include: 

• Alcohol
• Cannabis
• Hallucinogens
• Inhalants
• Opioids
• Prescription medication
• Sedative medications
• Stimulants
• Tobacco

Substance use disorder treatments 

Like any other illness, substance use disorder requires specialized medical care. The type of treatment that’s best for you depends on many factors, including your medical needs, goals and the level of support you receive from loved ones. 

We provide the full spectrum of addiction care, from medically managed withdrawal to medications and ongoing outpatient care. Find out more about the substance use disorder treatments we offer.