Disorders Substance Use
16
Substance Use Disorders When to Seek Help Behavioral Healcare Options, Inc.
Transcript of Disorders Substance Use
THINKING ABOUT A CHANGE? Understanding Substance Use Disorders and
Behavior
Addiction has long been understood to mean an uncontrollable habit of using alcohol or other drugs. Because of the physical
effects of these substances on the body, and particularly the brain, people have often thought that "real" addictions only happen when people regularly use these substances in large amounts. Researchers have found that the quantity is not the main issue; what is important is that the user finds the behavior initially pleasurable in some way, but continued use becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, such as work, relationships, or health. Users may not be aware their behavior is out of control and causing problems for themselves and others. No one starts out intending to develop an addiction, but many people get caught in its web. Consider the latest government statistics:
§ Nearly 23 million Americans—almost one in 10—are addicted to alcohol or other drugs. § More than two-thirds of people with other addictions abuse alcohol. § The top three drugs causing addiction are marijuana, opioid (narcotic) pain relievers, and cocaine. § Alcohol continues to be the number one substance of use, abuse and dependency.
Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others do not? Like any other disease, there are risk factors for addiction. The more risk factors an individual has, the greater the chance for developing the disease of addiction.
Substance Use Disorders– When to Seek Help
Biological Risk Factors: § Genetics - Researchers estimate that genetic factors account for 40-60% of a person’s vulnerability to addiction. Research in genetics has helped us understand how people who have a history of substance abuse in their family are more likely to develop the disease of addiction. § Gender - A significantly higher percentage of people addicted to a substance are male. § Mental health disorders/conditions - People with depression, ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), post-traumatic stress disorder and several other mental health conditions have a higher risk of eventually becoming addicted to alcohol and other drugs.
Social/Environmental Risk Factors: § Chaotic home and abuse - Family conflict, abuse, or positive attitudes toward drug-seeking increase children’s risk of later drug abuse. § Parent’s attitudes and use of substances - Parents or older family members who abuse alcohol or drugs can increase children’s risks of developing their own drug problems. § Peer influences - Drug-abusing peers can sway even those without risk factors to try drugs. § Community attitudes - People who live, work or go to school in an environment in which the use of
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alcohol and other drugs is common - such as a workplace in which people see heavy drinking as an important way to bond with coworkers - are more likely to abuse drugs. § Poor school achievement - Academic failure and poor social skills put children at risk for drug abuse.
Miscellaneous Risk Factors: § Early use of substances - The earlier a person begins use, the more likely they are to progress to more serious abuse. § Type of administration - Smoked and injected drugs enter the brain within seconds, increasing their addictive potential. § Availability of substances - Proximity to drugs and alcohol increases their use/abuse. § Cost - The cheaper the drug, the higher the risk for abuse, particularly by younger users. § Nature of the substance - Some substances, such heroin or cocaine, can bring about addiction more quickly than others.
Not everyone has the same reactions to alcohol and other drugs, but there are similarities. The following
behaviors are common to those users who are well along their way in the cycle of substance use disorders: § Making excuses for drug/alcohol use § Trying repeatedly to quit or cut down the use of alcohol or drugs and not being able to do so § Unable to enjoy events or social gatherings without using drugs or alcohol § Becoming increasingly preoccupied with getting high; loss of interest in other things you used to enjoy § Using more and more of the substance to achieve the desired effect (tolerance) § Not remembering what you did while you were using (blackouts) § Problems that develop in areas of your financial, legal, medical, family, and work life § Sneaking to use drugs or alcohol and developing an increasing dependency on alcohol and drugs § Using the substance while alone or hiding all evidence of use § Avoiding family and friends, especially because they might express concerns about substance use
What are the symptoms of drug and/ or alcohol dependency?
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
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§ Engaging in behaviors while "under the influence" that cause feelings of regret or shame later § Neglecting important responsibilities in order to use drugs or alcohol and being willing to do almost anything to get them § Unwilling or unable to discuss the problem and denying the seriousness of the addiction problem § Poor nutrition and lack of proper hygiene § Engaging in high risk activities that can cause harm such as unsafe sex or driving while intoxicated or high
How do I deal with an addiction problem?
The first step towards recovery is admitting that there is a problem. If you think there is a problem, there are several things you can do.
§ Talk about the problem openly with people you can trust. § Avoid or limit time with people who encourage alcohol or drug use or who view addiction as a moral problem or as a problem of "weak will." § Seek professional help. § Seek out other recovering people. There are many 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, etc. that provide support and guidance to recovering alcoholics and addicts.
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What are symptoms of an alcohol use disorder?
Because alcohol is the number one substance of use, abuse and dependency, it seems reasonable to
briefly highlight symptoms of a potential alcohol use disorder. The drug alcohol is different from many other substances of abuse because it is legal and it is used by many families for cultural, religious and social celebrations. Because its use is so ingrained in our everyday lives, it may be difficult to see a problem if one exists. See if you recognize any of the following symptoms in yourself, answering as honestly as you can.
In the past year, have you:
§ had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer, than you intended? § more than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to, but couldn’t? § more than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex)? § had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect you want? Or found that your usual number of drinks
had much less effect than before? § continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem? § continued to drink after having a memory blackout? § spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over other after effects? § continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends? § found that drinking—or being sick from drinking—often interfered with taking care of your home or family? Or caused job troubles? Or school problems? § given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, in order to drink? § more than once gotten arrested, been held at a police station, or had other legal problems because of your drinking? § found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, or a seizure? Or sensed things that were not there?
Substance Use Disorders– When to Seek Help
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If you do have any of these symptoms, then alcohol may already be a cause for concern. The more symptoms you
have, the more urgent the need for change.
A health professional can look at the number, pattern, and severity of symptoms to see whether an alcohol use disorder is present and help you decide the best course of action.
For many people, what starts as casual use leads to a substance use disorder. You may have tried to quit, but most people find they can't do it on their own. Substance use disorders can cause serious, long-term consequences, including problems with physical and mental health, relationships, employment and the law.
One addict put it simply “I can stop using anytime I want. I’ve stopped a million times. I just can’t stay stopped.” If you want it, there are many forms of assistance and resources available from your doctor, family, friends, support groups or treatment programs. The first step is yours.
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
bhoptions.com
Blood Alcohol Content
(BAC)
Life Threatening § Loss of consciousness § Danger of life - threatening alcohol poisoning § Significant risk of death in most drinkers due to suppression of vital life functions
Severe Impairment § Speech, memory, coordination, attention, reaction time, balance significantly impaired §All driving - related skills dangerously impaired § Judgement and decision making dangerously impaired § Vomiting and other signs of alcohol poisoning common § Loss of consciousness
Increased Impairment § Perceived beneficial effects of alcohol, such as relaxation, give way to increasing intoxication § Increased risk of aggression in some people § Speech, memory, attention, coordination, balance further impaired § Significant impairments in all driving skills § Increased risk of injury to self and others § Moderate memory impairments
0.31 –0.45%
0.16 –0.30%
0.06 –0.15%
0.00 –0.05%
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
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Heavy or at-risk drinking for women is the consumption of more than three drinks on any day or more than
seven per week, and for men it is more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 per week. This pattern of drinking too much, too often, is associated with an increased risk for alcohol use disorders. Binge drinking for women is having four or more drinks within two hours; for men, it is five or more drinks within two hours. This dangerous pattern of drinking typically results in a BAC of .08% for the average adult and increases the risk of immediate reversed consequences. BAC can continue to rise even when a person is unconscious. Alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.
Key Points § Addiction involves craving for something desperately, loss of control over its use, and continuing involvement with it despite negative consequences. § Addiction changes the brain, first by overturning the way it registers pleasure and then by affecting other normal drives such as learning and motivation. § Although breaking an addiction is tough, it can be done.
What are alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
Alcohol abuse means having unhealthy or dangerous drinking habits, such as drinking every day or drinking too much at a time.
Alcohol abuse can harm your relationships, cause you to miss work, and lead to legal problems such as driving while drunk (intoxicated). When you abuse alcohol, you continue to drink even though you know your drinking is causing problems. If you continue to abuse alcohol, it can lead to alcohol dependence. Alcohol dependence is also called alcoholism. You are physically or mentally addicted to alcohol. You have a strong need, or craving, to drink. You feel like you must drink just to get by.
You might be dependent on alcohol if you have three or more of the following problems in a year:
§ You cannot quit drinking or control how much you drink. § You need to drink more to get the same effect. § You have withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. These include feeling sick to your stomach, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety. § You spend a lot of time drinking and recovering from drinking, or you have given up other activities so you can drink. § You have tried to quit drinking or to cut back the amount you drink, but haven't been able to. § You continue to drink even though it harms your relationships and causes physical problems.
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in health programs and activities.
We provide free services to help you communicate with us. Such as, letters in other languages or large print. Or, you can ask for an interpreter. To ask for help, please call the toll-free phone number listed on your health plan ID card or plan documents.
Español (Spanish) Tiene derecho a recibir ayuda e información en su idioma sin costo. Para solicitar un intérprete, llame al número de teléfono gratuito para miembros que se encuentra en su tarjeta de identificación del plan o los documentos de su plan.
Tagalog (Tagalog) May karapatan kang makakuha ng tulong at impormasyon sa sinasalita mong wika nang libre. Upang humiling ng interpreter, tawagan ang toll-free na numero ng telepono para sa miyembro na nakalista sa iyong ID card sa planong pangkalusugan o sa mga dokumento ng plano.
bhoptions.com 58NVBHO16534 PD361 (12/16)
For more information about Substance Use Disorders or to make
an appointment, please call Behavioral Healthcare Options (BHO)
at 702-364-1484 or 1-800-873-2246.
Addiction has long been understood to mean an uncontrollable habit of using alcohol or other drugs. Because of the physical
effects of these substances on the body, and particularly the brain, people have often thought that "real" addictions only happen when people regularly use these substances in large amounts. Researchers have found that the quantity is not the main issue; what is important is that the user finds the behavior initially pleasurable in some way, but continued use becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, such as work, relationships, or health. Users may not be aware their behavior is out of control and causing problems for themselves and others. No one starts out intending to develop an addiction, but many people get caught in its web. Consider the latest government statistics:
§ Nearly 23 million Americans—almost one in 10—are addicted to alcohol or other drugs. § More than two-thirds of people with other addictions abuse alcohol. § The top three drugs causing addiction are marijuana, opioid (narcotic) pain relievers, and cocaine. § Alcohol continues to be the number one substance of use, abuse and dependency.
Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others do not? Like any other disease, there are risk factors for addiction. The more risk factors an individual has, the greater the chance for developing the disease of addiction.
Substance Use Disorders– When to Seek Help
Biological Risk Factors: § Genetics - Researchers estimate that genetic factors account for 40-60% of a person’s vulnerability to addiction. Research in genetics has helped us understand how people who have a history of substance abuse in their family are more likely to develop the disease of addiction. § Gender - A significantly higher percentage of people addicted to a substance are male. § Mental health disorders/conditions - People with depression, ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), post-traumatic stress disorder and several other mental health conditions have a higher risk of eventually becoming addicted to alcohol and other drugs.
Social/Environmental Risk Factors: § Chaotic home and abuse - Family conflict, abuse, or positive attitudes toward drug-seeking increase children’s risk of later drug abuse. § Parent’s attitudes and use of substances - Parents or older family members who abuse alcohol or drugs can increase children’s risks of developing their own drug problems. § Peer influences - Drug-abusing peers can sway even those without risk factors to try drugs. § Community attitudes - People who live, work or go to school in an environment in which the use of
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alcohol and other drugs is common - such as a workplace in which people see heavy drinking as an important way to bond with coworkers - are more likely to abuse drugs. § Poor school achievement - Academic failure and poor social skills put children at risk for drug abuse.
Miscellaneous Risk Factors: § Early use of substances - The earlier a person begins use, the more likely they are to progress to more serious abuse. § Type of administration - Smoked and injected drugs enter the brain within seconds, increasing their addictive potential. § Availability of substances - Proximity to drugs and alcohol increases their use/abuse. § Cost - The cheaper the drug, the higher the risk for abuse, particularly by younger users. § Nature of the substance - Some substances, such heroin or cocaine, can bring about addiction more quickly than others.
Not everyone has the same reactions to alcohol and other drugs, but there are similarities. The following
behaviors are common to those users who are well along their way in the cycle of substance use disorders: § Making excuses for drug/alcohol use § Trying repeatedly to quit or cut down the use of alcohol or drugs and not being able to do so § Unable to enjoy events or social gatherings without using drugs or alcohol § Becoming increasingly preoccupied with getting high; loss of interest in other things you used to enjoy § Using more and more of the substance to achieve the desired effect (tolerance) § Not remembering what you did while you were using (blackouts) § Problems that develop in areas of your financial, legal, medical, family, and work life § Sneaking to use drugs or alcohol and developing an increasing dependency on alcohol and drugs § Using the substance while alone or hiding all evidence of use § Avoiding family and friends, especially because they might express concerns about substance use
What are the symptoms of drug and/ or alcohol dependency?
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
bhoptions.com
§ Engaging in behaviors while "under the influence" that cause feelings of regret or shame later § Neglecting important responsibilities in order to use drugs or alcohol and being willing to do almost anything to get them § Unwilling or unable to discuss the problem and denying the seriousness of the addiction problem § Poor nutrition and lack of proper hygiene § Engaging in high risk activities that can cause harm such as unsafe sex or driving while intoxicated or high
How do I deal with an addiction problem?
The first step towards recovery is admitting that there is a problem. If you think there is a problem, there are several things you can do.
§ Talk about the problem openly with people you can trust. § Avoid or limit time with people who encourage alcohol or drug use or who view addiction as a moral problem or as a problem of "weak will." § Seek professional help. § Seek out other recovering people. There are many 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, etc. that provide support and guidance to recovering alcoholics and addicts.
bhoptions.com
What are symptoms of an alcohol use disorder?
Because alcohol is the number one substance of use, abuse and dependency, it seems reasonable to
briefly highlight symptoms of a potential alcohol use disorder. The drug alcohol is different from many other substances of abuse because it is legal and it is used by many families for cultural, religious and social celebrations. Because its use is so ingrained in our everyday lives, it may be difficult to see a problem if one exists. See if you recognize any of the following symptoms in yourself, answering as honestly as you can.
In the past year, have you:
§ had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer, than you intended? § more than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to, but couldn’t? § more than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex)? § had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect you want? Or found that your usual number of drinks
had much less effect than before? § continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem? § continued to drink after having a memory blackout? § spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over other after effects? § continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends? § found that drinking—or being sick from drinking—often interfered with taking care of your home or family? Or caused job troubles? Or school problems? § given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, in order to drink? § more than once gotten arrested, been held at a police station, or had other legal problems because of your drinking? § found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, or a seizure? Or sensed things that were not there?
Substance Use Disorders– When to Seek Help
bhoptions.com
If you do have any of these symptoms, then alcohol may already be a cause for concern. The more symptoms you
have, the more urgent the need for change.
A health professional can look at the number, pattern, and severity of symptoms to see whether an alcohol use disorder is present and help you decide the best course of action.
For many people, what starts as casual use leads to a substance use disorder. You may have tried to quit, but most people find they can't do it on their own. Substance use disorders can cause serious, long-term consequences, including problems with physical and mental health, relationships, employment and the law.
One addict put it simply “I can stop using anytime I want. I’ve stopped a million times. I just can’t stay stopped.” If you want it, there are many forms of assistance and resources available from your doctor, family, friends, support groups or treatment programs. The first step is yours.
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
bhoptions.com
Blood Alcohol Content
(BAC)
Life Threatening § Loss of consciousness § Danger of life - threatening alcohol poisoning § Significant risk of death in most drinkers due to suppression of vital life functions
Severe Impairment § Speech, memory, coordination, attention, reaction time, balance significantly impaired §All driving - related skills dangerously impaired § Judgement and decision making dangerously impaired § Vomiting and other signs of alcohol poisoning common § Loss of consciousness
Increased Impairment § Perceived beneficial effects of alcohol, such as relaxation, give way to increasing intoxication § Increased risk of aggression in some people § Speech, memory, attention, coordination, balance further impaired § Significant impairments in all driving skills § Increased risk of injury to self and others § Moderate memory impairments
0.31 –0.45%
0.16 –0.30%
0.06 –0.15%
0.00 –0.05%
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
bhoptions.com
Heavy or at-risk drinking for women is the consumption of more than three drinks on any day or more than
seven per week, and for men it is more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 per week. This pattern of drinking too much, too often, is associated with an increased risk for alcohol use disorders. Binge drinking for women is having four or more drinks within two hours; for men, it is five or more drinks within two hours. This dangerous pattern of drinking typically results in a BAC of .08% for the average adult and increases the risk of immediate reversed consequences. BAC can continue to rise even when a person is unconscious. Alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.
Key Points § Addiction involves craving for something desperately, loss of control over its use, and continuing involvement with it despite negative consequences. § Addiction changes the brain, first by overturning the way it registers pleasure and then by affecting other normal drives such as learning and motivation. § Although breaking an addiction is tough, it can be done.
What are alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
Alcohol abuse means having unhealthy or dangerous drinking habits, such as drinking every day or drinking too much at a time.
Alcohol abuse can harm your relationships, cause you to miss work, and lead to legal problems such as driving while drunk (intoxicated). When you abuse alcohol, you continue to drink even though you know your drinking is causing problems. If you continue to abuse alcohol, it can lead to alcohol dependence. Alcohol dependence is also called alcoholism. You are physically or mentally addicted to alcohol. You have a strong need, or craving, to drink. You feel like you must drink just to get by.
You might be dependent on alcohol if you have three or more of the following problems in a year:
§ You cannot quit drinking or control how much you drink. § You need to drink more to get the same effect. § You have withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. These include feeling sick to your stomach, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety. § You spend a lot of time drinking and recovering from drinking, or you have given up other activities so you can drink. § You have tried to quit drinking or to cut back the amount you drink, but haven't been able to. § You continue to drink even though it harms your relationships and causes physical problems.
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
Substance Use Disorders – When to Seek Help
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in health programs and activities.
We provide free services to help you communicate with us. Such as, letters in other languages or large print. Or, you can ask for an interpreter. To ask for help, please call the toll-free phone number listed on your health plan ID card or plan documents.
Español (Spanish) Tiene derecho a recibir ayuda e información en su idioma sin costo. Para solicitar un intérprete, llame al número de teléfono gratuito para miembros que se encuentra en su tarjeta de identificación del plan o los documentos de su plan.
Tagalog (Tagalog) May karapatan kang makakuha ng tulong at impormasyon sa sinasalita mong wika nang libre. Upang humiling ng interpreter, tawagan ang toll-free na numero ng telepono para sa miyembro na nakalista sa iyong ID card sa planong pangkalusugan o sa mga dokumento ng plano.
bhoptions.com 58NVBHO16534 PD361 (12/16)
For more information about Substance Use Disorders or to make
an appointment, please call Behavioral Healthcare Options (BHO)
at 702-364-1484 or 1-800-873-2246.
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