Adult male outdoors pondering substance use disorder on a sunny day.

Substance Use Disorder

Learn more about substance use disorders, the warning signs and how to help.

Substance Use Disorder

Learn more about substance use disorders, the warning signs and how to help.

Adult woman outdoors trying to strengthen her willpower gainst substance use disorders.

Not simply a lack of willpower

Substance use disorders involve ongoing use of alcohol or other drugs, including medications and illegal substances. Substance use disorders are complex health conditions. They are closely connected to one’s genetic makeup and biology—including reward circuits in the brain. As a result, substance use disorders consist of more than lack of will or simply choosing to engage in substance use. These conditions can result in physical effects, impairment in daily life, and challenges maintaining healthy relationships. Yet, treatment for substance use disorders is effective, and it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek help.

learn about symptoms

If you think you have a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for you or your loved ones.

If you think you have a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support for you or your loved ones.

get 24-hour help

Substance use disorders types and treatments

Learn about types of substance use disorders and options for treatment.

Substance use disorder types

Substance use disorder types include alcohol, illicit drugs, marijuana, nicotine and prescription drugs.

Find substance use types
Treatment options

Substance use disorders are treatable conditions and effective interventions typically include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, support groups or a combination of these approaches.

get treatment options

See how she recognized patterns of drinking, sought treatment, and found hope for the future.

See how she recognized patterns of drinking, sought treatment, and found hope for the future.

How to help someone with substance use disorder

Learn practical guidance and compassionate strategies for encouraging recovery.

Do
- Approach them with love and compassion
- Educate yourself
- Help them find professionals with specific experience and expertise in helping people with substance use disorders
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Don’t
- Shame, embarrass, or stigmatize
- Accuse them of having insufficient willpower
- Expect immediate change
- Demand that they quit suddenly or “cold turkey” as there can be dangerous side effects to stopping a drug too quickly
read more

Mental health resources

Find local, state, and national resources for mental health.

Learn more
Substance use disorder information

More details from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

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