Online Substance Abuse Treatment, Drug Addiction Control in Phoenix, AZ
Substance abuse disorder is characterized by the excessive consumption of substances like alcohol, prescription painkillers, or illicit drugs, leading to significant physical, social, and emotional consequences.
If you or someone you care about is battling substance use, seeking professional help can be transformative and potentially life-saving. With millions affected by substance use disorder across the United States, it’s important to recognize that every individual’s journey with addiction is unique, necessitating a personalized approach to treatment.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Phoenix, Arizona, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Peter Njogu and his experienced team provide comprehensive care for substance abuse and drug addiction, focusing on enhancing:
– Physical health
– Emotional and mental well-being
– Relationships with others.
We offer Telehealth and online consultations for mental health and substance abuse treatment in Phoenix, AZ. To schedule an appointment, 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 refers to a persistent pattern of substance misuse that leads to significant challenges in daily life. These challenges can include missing obligations such as work or school, using substances in risky situations, legal troubles, or experiencing strained relationships.
Substance abuse disorder can involve the misuse of illegal drugs such as- marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, as well as legal substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medications. Among these, alcohol is the substance most commonly linked with substance use disorders.
While occasional use of alcohol or drugs may not immediately cause harm, developing a dependency or addiction is a serious concern. If you or someone you know is grappling with substance use, it’s crucial to seek help right away. Grand Canyon Psychiatry offers online counseling and treatment specifically for substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction in Phoenix, Arizona. Our mental health professionals are here to support your journey to recovery.
What Substances are associated with substance use disorder?
Substances seen 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?
Common signs that someone may be struggling with substance abuse or addiction include:
- A persistent urge to use the substance frequently
- Overwhelming cravings for the drug
- Consuming more of the substance than originally planned
- Developing a tolerance, requiring increased amounts to achieve the same effect
- Ensuring a constant supply of the substance is on hand
- Ignoring responsibilities and social activities in favor of drug use
- Continuing to use the substance even when aware of the negative consequences
- Taking dangerous actions to obtain the drug
- Spending significant time acquiring, using, or recovering from the effects of the drug
- Being unable to quit despite repeated attempts
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
Substance Abuse symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe in some cases. Based on the condition and severity people with drug overdose might undergo anxious feelings, lack of commitment, and sometimes death. Therefore it is always best that you seek help from your nearest substance abuse clinic, or mental health psychiatrist. Our team at Grand Canyon Psychiatry offers best online substance abuse control, treatment, and medication services in Phoenix, 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 affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Factors that can increase the risk include:
- Family History of Addiction: There is seen to be an increased risk in individuals whose relatives have struggled with alcohol or drug dependency.
- Mental health conditions: People with mental health disorders like depression, ADHD, or PTSD are more prone to drug addiction as substances may serve as coping mechanisms for managing emotional distress, exacerbating existing issues.
- Peer influence: Peer pressure, especially among teens can initiate misuse of drugs.
- Lack of Family Support: Lack of parental involvement can increase the vulnerability to drug 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 expedite addiction development, with methods like smoking or injection further increasing dependency risks. Additionally, even “mild” drugs can pave the way for subsequent 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?
Identifying substance abuse or drug addiction generally requires a thorough evaluation by healthcare experts. Below are some typical procedures and approaches involved in the diagnostic process:
1. Physical Examination
During physical examination process we check for signs of drug use or related health issues.
2. Clinical Interview
Our online substance abuse specialist in Phoenix, Arizona will perform a detailed interview to collect information on your medical history, patterns of substance use, and related symptoms. This comprehensive approach helps us develop effective strategies and solutions for 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
We might need to conduct urine test, blood test, or conduct other tests to detect the presence of drugs or alcohol in the body.
5. Psychological Evaluation
Our Drug Control specialist in Phoenix, AZ may assess for co-occurring mental health conditions that could contribute to substance abuse.
6. Screening Tools
Other screening tools and asking more related questions can help identify problematic substance use behaviors and determine the severity of the addiction.
7. Family Involvement
Family members or relatives can provide valuable insight into an individual’s substance use patterns and their impact on relationships.
It is important to seek help from trained professionals if you suspect someone 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 Phoenix, 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 widely used approach to treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and drug addiction is combining behavioral therapy with medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT integrates medications, like Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone), with counseling and therapeutic practices to address both the physical and psychological dimensions of addiction. Here’s an overview of how this approach functions:
1. Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) assists individuals in altering detrimental behaviors and developing effective coping mechanisms. This therapy often incorporates exposure techniques and relaxation exercises to further support the recovery process
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Phoenix, AZ, our online substance abuse counselors can offer FDA-approved medications such as Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) combined with counseling to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
As a premier provider of online Suboxone treatment in Phoenix, AZ, and nearby locations, we are here to support your recovery journey. Contact us at (480) 716-8473 to connect with a local healthcare professional for medication support.
3. Individualized Treatment Plans
Our online substance abuse control professionals can customize the treatment plan according to each individual’s needs, preferences, and circumstances
4. Supportive Services
Other than therapy and medication, people undergoing therapy and recovery could find value in additional supportive resources like support groups, family therapy, vocational training, housing aid, and healthy lifestyle changes.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Phoenix, AZ, we offer personalized care for substance abuse and drug addiction. To receive professional treatment, call our office at (480) 716-8473 to book your consultation.
