Online Substance Abuse Treatment, Drug Addiction Control in Tucson, AZ
Substance use disorder involves the excessive consumption of substances like alcohol, pain medications, or illegal drugs, leading to physical, social, or emotional harm.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seeking treatment can be transformative and potentially life-saving. Substance use disorder impacts millions across the United States, with each individual’s experience being unique and requiring tailored treatment. Since each story of substance use is different, addiction treatment should be personalized as well.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Tucson, Arizona, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Peter Njogu and their dedicated team provide comprehensive treatment for substance abuse and addiction, aiming to enhance:
- Physical health
- Mental and emotional well-being
- Interpersonal relationships
Now offering Telehealth/Online consultations for mental health and substance abuse treatment in Tucson, AZ. To schedule a consultation, please 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 characterized by a persistent pattern of substance use that leads to significant problems in daily life. This may include missing work or school, using substances in hazardous situations, encountering legal issues, or experiencing strained relationships.
The disorder involves the misuse of both illegal substances like marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, and legal substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medications. Among these, alcohol is most commonly linked to substance use disorder.
While occasional use of these substances might not be problematic, addiction requires immediate intervention. If you are struggling with substance addiction, seek help from a local substance abuse treatment clinic and mental health care provider. Grand Canyon Psychiatry offers online counseling and treatment for substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction.
What Substances are associated with substance use disorder?
Substances that can 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?
Common symptoms of substance abuse or drug control 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
The severity of substance abuse can range from mild to severe, and its 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 Tucson, 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.
For drug abuse support and 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 typically involves a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals. Common steps and methods in the diagnostic process include:
1. Physical Examination
A physical examination involves checking for signs of drug use or related health issues through a thorough assessment of the body and overall health.
2. Clinical Interview
Our online drug addiction healthcare provider in Tucson, Arizona, will conduct a comprehensive interview to gather information about your medical history, substance use patterns, and symptoms. This will help us develop tailored solutions 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 tests, may be conducted to detect the presence of drugs or alcohol in the body.
5. Psychological Evaluation
An online mental health professional at our clinic in Tucson, AZ, may evaluate for co-occurring mental health conditions that could contribute to substance abuse.
6. Screening Tools
Additional screening tools and questionnaires can help identify problematic substance use behaviors and assess the severity of the addiction.
7. Family Involvement
Inputs from family members or relatives can offer valuable insights into an individual’s substance use patterns and the effects on their relationships.
It is important to seek help from trained professionals if you suspect that you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or addiction. If you do not know where and how to start, give us a call at (480) 716-8473 to speak to our substance abuse and drug addiction specialist in Tucson, 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 common approach to treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and drug addiction involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT utilizes medications like Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) alongside counseling and behavioral therapies to address both the physical and psychological components 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 Mesa, AZ, can provide counseling alongside FDA-approved medications like Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) to help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.
Contact your Online Suboxone Provider-Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Tucson, AZ. Call us at (480) 716-8473 to speak to your local healthcare professional for medication assistance.
3. Individualized Treatment Plans
At our clinic, we make sure that our online substance abuse treatment is customized to fit your unique needs, preferences, and situation
4. Supportive Services
In addition to therapy and medication, individuals in therapy and recovery may benefit from supplementary resources such as support groups, family therapy, vocational training, and housing assistance.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Tucson, AZ, we offer comprehensive and personalized care for substance abuse and drug addiction through telepsychiatry/online consultations. To receive compassionate and professional treatment, call our office at (480) 716-8473 to book your consultation.
