What is substance use disorder and what can I do about it?
This page is about substance use disorders (drug or alcohol problems) and explains some ways to help. When we say “you,” we are speaking to the child or teen who may have this health issue.
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
- Psychedelics, such as magic mushrooms
Drug or alcohol use is a disorder when it gets the in way of your life at home, school, or with friends.
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
How can I find out if I have a substance use disorder?
Only a doctor or therapist can tell you if you have (diagnose you with) a substance use disorder. You can:
- See a doctor. Talk to your primary care doctor who can help you.
- See a therapist. Find a therapist in your area.
- Take a free screener. This is a quiz you take online that tells you if you might have a drug or alcohol problem. Share your results with your doctor or therapist.
Take a substance use disorder screener.
Are substance use disorders related to other mental health problems?
A lot of children and teens who have a substance use disorder also have a mental health problem, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)
- Schizophrenia
What could put me at risk of having substance use disorder?
You might be more likely to have this if:
- You use drugs or alcohol to deal with your symptoms from a mental health problem
- Someone in your family also has a drug or alcohol problem
- You have been through hard things such as high stress or abuse
How can I get help for a substance use disorder?
This is a health problem that is treated over time. You may need medicine. You may also need therapy from someone trained in mental health.
How can therapy help with a substance use disorder?
You may be able to get therapy at a therapist’s office, or you may get it through a live-in program. Some therapies that help children and teens with substance use disorders include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Family Therapy
Find a therapist in your area.
How can medicine help with a substance use disorder?
Some medicines can help children and teens with substance use disorder. Talk with your doctor or psychiatrist to see if medicine is right for you.