Online Substance Abuse Treatment, Drug Addiction Control in Flagstaff, AZ
Substance use disorder is characterized by the overuse of substances such as alcohol, prescription painkillers, or illicit drugs, resulting in physical, social, or emotional damage.
If you or someone you know is facing challenges with substance use, seeking treatment can be life-changing and crucial for recovery. This disorder affects millions across the U.S., with each case being unique and requiring a customized approach. Therefore, addiction treatment should be tailored to individual needs.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Flagstaff, Arizona, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Peter Njogu and his expert team offer thorough treatment for substance abuse and addiction, focusing on improving:
- Physical health
- Mental and emotional well-being
- Interpersonal relationships
We now provide Telehealth/Online consultations for mental health and substance abuse treatment in Flagstaff, AZ. To book a consultation, call our office at (480) 716-8473.
Substance Abuse/Drug Addiction Treatment & Counseling- Common Questions & Answers
What is Substance Abuse or Drug Addiction?
Substance use disorder is defined by a consistent pattern of substance abuse that results in severe disruptions to daily life. This can include issues like missing work or school, using substances in dangerous situations, facing legal troubles, or experiencing relationship difficulties.
The disorder encompasses the misuse of both illegal drugs such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, and legal substances including alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medications. Of these, alcohol is most frequently associated with substance use disorder.
While occasional use may not be problematic, addiction demands prompt intervention. If you are dealing with substance addiction, it is important to seek assistance from a local treatment clinic and mental health provider. Grand Canyon Psychiatry provides online counseling and treatment for substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction.
What Substances are associated with substance use disorder?
Some Substances/Drugs that can easily lead to addiction include:
– Alcohol
– Marijuana
– Prescription medicines, such as pain pills, stimulants, or anxiety pills
– Methamphetamine
– Cocaine
– Opiates
– Hallucinogens
– Inhalants
What Are the Symptoms of Drug Addiction or Substance Abuse?
Typical symptoms of substance abuse or drug addiction include:
- A strong need to use the drug regularly
- Intense cravings for the substance
- Using more of the drug than intended
- Needing more of the drug over time to get the same effect
- Always having a supply of the drug
- Neglecting responsibilities and social activities
- Continuing use despite knowing it’s causing problems
- Engaging in risky behaviors to get the drug
- Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from the drug
- Failing to stop using the drug
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
Substance abuse conditions can range from mild to severe, and after-effects can include anxious feelings, lack of commitment, and in extreme cases, death. It is crucial to seek help from a nearby substance abuse clinic or mental health psychiatrist to address these issues effectively. Our team at Grand Canyon Psychiatry offers best online substance abuse control, treatment, and medication services in Flagstaff, and across Arizona – call us now at (480) 716-8473 for online/telehealth or in-person consultations.
What factors contribute to Substance Abuse or Drug Addiction?
Addiction can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Factors that may increase the risk include:
- Family History of Addiction: Individuals with relatives who have struggled with alcohol or drug dependency face an increased risk of developing similar issues.
- Mental health conditions: Individuals with mental health disorders such as depression, ADHD, or PTSD are more prone to drug addiction, as substances may be used as coping mechanisms to manage emotional distress, which can worsen existing problems.
- Peer influence: Peer pressure, particularly among young people, can lead to the initiation of drug misuse.
- Lack of Family Support: Unfavorable family situations or insufficient parental involvement can heighten the susceptibility to addiction.
- Early exposure: Drug use during adolescence can disrupt brain development and escalate the likelihood of addiction progression.
- Substance potency: Highly addictive substances, such as stimulants, cocaine, or opioids, can accelerate the development of addiction, with methods like smoking or injection further increasing the risk of dependency. Additionally, even substances considered “mild” can set the stage for future substance misuse and addiction.
If you are looking for help related to drug abuse, guidance, counseling, therapy, and medications, reach out to us for online/telehealth or in-person consultations.
How is Drug Addiction or Substance Abuse Diagnosed?
Diagnosing substance abuse or drug addiction generally requires a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals. Key steps and methods in the diagnostic process include:
1. Physical Examination
A physical examination entails evaluating the body and overall health to identify signs of drug use or related health issues through a detailed assessment.
2. Clinical Interview
Our online drug addiction healthcare provider in Flagstaff, Arizona, will perform a thorough interview to collect information about your medical history, substance use patterns, and symptoms. This approach helps us create personalized strategies to support you in managing and overcoming addiction.
3. Diagnostic Criteria
Substance use disorders are diagnosed based on specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These criteria include factors such as impaired control over substance use, continued use despite negative consequences, and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
4. Laboratory Tests
Additional tests, such as urine or blood screenings, may be performed to identify the presence of drugs or alcohol in the body.
5. Psychological Evaluation
An online mental health professional at our clinic in Flagstaff, AZ, may assess for co-occurring mental health conditions that could be contributing to substance abuse.
6. Screening Tools
Additional screening tools and questionnaires can aid in identifying problematic substance use behaviors and evaluating the severity of the addiction.
7. Family Involvement
Feedback from family members or relatives can provide crucial insights into an individual’s substance use patterns and the impact on their relationships.
If you suspect that you or someone you know is facing substance abuse or addiction issues, seeking help from trained professionals is essential. For guidance on where to begin, call us at (480) 716-8473 to consult with our substance abuse and drug addiction specialist in Flagstaff, AZ.
Treatment for Substance Abuse Disorder and Drug Addiction
Specific treatment for substance use disorder will be determined by your substance use therapist based on:
– Patient’s age, overall health, and health history
– Extent of the symptoms
– Extent of the dependence
– Type of substance a patient is using
– Your tolerance for specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
– Expectations for the course of the condition
– Patient’s opinion or preference
A standard method for treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and drug addiction typically combines behavioral therapy with medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT involves using medications such as Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) along with counseling and behavioral therapies to tackle both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Here’s how it works:
1. Behavioral Therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals change harmful behaviors and develop coping strategies.
- Exposure therapy and relaxation exercises can also be included
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Our online substance abuse counselors in Flagstaff, AZ, offer counseling in conjunction with FDA-approved medications such as Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) to help alleviate cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.
For medication assistance, contact Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Flagstaff, AZ. Call us at (480) 716-8473 to speak with a local healthcare professional.
3. Individualized Treatment Plans
At our clinic, we ensure that our online substance abuse treatment meets your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.
4. Supportive Services
Alongside therapy and medication, individuals in recovery may also benefit from additional resources such as support groups, family therapy, vocational training, and housing assistance.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Flagstaff, AZ, we provide thorough and individualized care for substance abuse and drug addiction through telepsychiatry and online consultations. For compassionate and professional treatment, call us at (480) 716-8473 to schedule your consultation.