Substance use treatment uses medication-assisted care, counseling, peer support, and lifestyle strategies to help people safely overcome substance use disorder.

Substance use disorder is a chronic, relapsing medical condition that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and decision-making systems. This disruption makes it difficult to control the use of opioids, alcohol, or stimulants despite harmful consequences. Over time, it can affect not only physical health but also mental well-being, relationships, and daily functioning.

Without proper treatment, substance use disorder can increase the risk of serious health complications, such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, mental health disorders, and overdose. Effective treatment can address both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction.

At Blue Stone Health & Wellness, we provide a comprehensive treatment plan that integrates FDA-approved medications with counseling, peer recovery support, and lifestyle interventions.

With both in-person and telehealth options, our team meets you where you are, supporting you toward lasting recovery.

Understanding Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Substance use disorder is a medical condition in which the recurrent use of alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs causes significant impairment in daily life. It affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory systems, making it difficult to stop use despite harmful consequences.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that people start using drugs for many reasons, including:

• Experiencing pleasure, a high, or a sense of intoxication
• Easing stress, escaping problems, or numbing emotional pain
• Boosting performance, focus, or mental sharpness
• Out of curiosity or social influence

The risk of developing an addiction and how quickly it occurs depends on the substance. Certain drugs, such as opioid pain medications, carry a higher risk and can lead to dependence more rapidly than others.

Over time, your body may build tolerance, meaning you need larger amounts to achieve the same effect. Eventually, you might rely on the substance just to feel normal. As use increases, going without the drug can become extremely difficult. Stopping suddenly may trigger intense cravings and uncomfortable physical reactions, known as withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

Symptoms of substance use disorder generally fall into four main categories:

• Impaired Control: You feel strong cravings or urges to use the substance, along with unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use.
• Social Problems: You may face difficulty meeting responsibilities at work, school, or home, or may reduce or give up social, work, or leisure activities.
• Risky Use: You may start using the substance in unsafe situations or continue using it despite knowing it’s causing harm.
• Physical Effects: You may develop tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect) and experience withdrawal symptoms, which vary depending on the substance.

Substance Use Disorder Diagnosis

We diagnose substance use disorder based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Diagnosis typically involves:

• Comprehensive medical and psychiatric evaluation
• Detailed history of substance use (type, frequency, amount, and duration)
• Assessment of functional impact on work, school, relationships, and health
• Screening for withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring mental health conditions

A diagnosis is made when at least two symptoms, such as loss of control, cravings, risky use, tolerance, or withdrawal, are present within a 12-month period.