Substance Use Disorders and Treatment
Find clear, plain-language guides about substances, risks, and safe ways to get help.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
How This Page Helps
This page gathers our substance guides in one place. Each guide explains what the substance is, common signs and risks, and how treatment works, from detox to outpatient and telehealth. You’ll also find tips for discussing sensitive topics with loved ones and information on how insurance may apply.
Substances We Cover
Alcohol
What alcohol addiction is, risks, detox, and how medication and therapy may help
Opioids & Fentanyl
Pain medicines and street opioids, overdose risks, and why medical care is important
Benzodiazepines
Sedatives like benzos used for anxiety or sleep, and when medical supervision is safer
Cannabis/Marijuana
Forms, effects, and how heavy marijuana use can affect mood, sleep, and daily life
Stimulants (Meth; Cocaine)
Short-term effects vs. long-term risks, and what stimulant treatment looks like
Prescription Medications
Misuse of prescription medication for ADHD, insomnia, and pain, and treatment options
Common Signs
Using more than planned or for longer than planned
Strong cravings or spending lots of time getting/using/recovering
Trouble at work, school, or home
Using in risky situations (driving, at work)
Withdrawal symptoms when cutting down (shakes, sweats, nausea, anxiety)
Only a clinician can assess your situation. If safety is a concern, use emergency services now.
Treatment at a Glance
- Detox: Medical support for safe withdrawal
- Inpatient: 24/7 structure when risks are higher
- PHP/IOP: Strong support while sleeping at home
- Outpatient: Therapy sessions around your schedule
- Telehealth: Care from home, reducing travel and barriers
- Dual Diagnosis: Integrated SUD and mental health treatment
Next Steps
Choose a substance guide to start, write down your questions, and consider a brief call with a licensed clinician. If safety is a concern, use emergency services right away.
Featured Facilities
Helpful Resources
- Alcohol
FAQs
How do I know if I need treatment?
If substance use is causing problems at work, school, or home, if you’ve tried to cut down but couldn’t, or if you’re experiencing withdrawal symptoms, talk with a licensed clinician about your options.
Do all substance use disorders require detox?
No. Detox is needed when there’s a risk of dangerous withdrawal (common with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids). A clinician assesses your withdrawal risk and recommends the safest approach.
Are there medications that help with addiction?
Yes, for some substances. FDA-approved medications exist for alcohol and opioid use disorders. Psychiatric medications may also help with co-occurring mental health conditions. A prescriber discusses options, risks, and benefits.
Can I do treatment while working or going to school?
Many programs offer evening IOP or telehealth options that fit around work and school schedules. The level of care depends on your needs, not just your availability.
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. You can also contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7 at 988.
Additional Resources (Optional but Helpful):
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741