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  1. UAMS Health
  2. AR ConnectNow
  3. Learn More About Mental Health
  4. Common Mental Health Concerns
  5. Substance Abuse Disorders
  6. Understanding Substance Use Disorders

Understanding Substance Use Disorders

What is substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder is a health problem where your misuse of alcohol or drugs gets in the way of your life. This includes prescription medicines or illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, meth, and psychedelics, such as magic mushrooms.

What are some signs that I might have a substance use disorder?

You may notice that you:

  • Crave drugs or alcohol
  • Need more drugs or alcohol to feel good than you did before
  • Feel ill when you stop using drugs or alcohol
  • Use drugs or alcohol in unsafe places or ways
  • Use drugs or alcohol even when it causes problems
  • Do less in life so you have more time to use drugs or alcohol
  • Want to stop using drugs or alcohol but cannot stop
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