Do I Have a Substance Use Problem?
I imagine you have clicked this tab because you are worried that you or someone you love may have a problem with substance use. With all of the existing resources out there, it can be challenging and daunting to figure out where to start.
Perhaps you’re curious about your own use?
Maybe it has been causing some turmoil within your relationships?
Maybe you’re even experiencing legal troubles as a result?
Perhaps you are a concerned parent whose child is experimenting with alcohol and other substances and you are afraid and unclear where to even begin addressing your concerns?
Whatever your reason – we acknowledge you for taking this step and your desire to gain more information.
What are the signs and symptoms of a substance use disorder?
- You are using more of the substance and the amount of time you’re using it is greater than you intend
- You try to control or cut back on the substance but are unsuccessful
- You spend a lot of time using the substance, recovering from the substance, or obtaining the substance
- Cravings, urges, and desires to use the substance are present
- Substance use interferes with your obligations at work, school, or home
- Use of the substance continues despite harmful effects in social or interpersonal relationships caused by the substance
- You are avoiding or reducing social, work, and leisure activities due to the substance use
- The substance use occurs in environments or situations where danger exists
- Continued use despite the consequences of making physical or psychological problems worse
- The need to use more of the substance or a stronger substance to achieve the desired effect
- Withdrawal symptoms are present when you reduce or abstain and you resume use of the substance or a substance similar to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms
What Does This Mean?
According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), a substance use disorder exists on a spectrum and is diagnosable if the individual has met the criteria above within a 12 month period. The presence of two symptoms is considered a mild substance use disorder, presence of three to four symptoms is considered a moderate substance use disorder, and presence of six or more symptoms is considered a severe substance use disorder. Only a licensed clinician or mental health professional can determine if someone meets criteria for a substance use disorder and offer clinical recommendations.
I’m in need of some help, what should I do next?
There are multiple pathways to get help and achieve sobriety. Considering the diversity of support, it is beneficial having a mental health therapist on your side to help guide you. Consider us your interpreters – we will make sense of all of this for you, every step of the way, in a language that you understand.
Our Substance Use therapists in Houston, TX include: Leah Singer, M.Ed., LPC & Kimberly Harkey, MS, LPC & Brent Armour, M.Ed., LPC AssociateÂ