Substance Use Disorder: Recognizing Patterns and Signs

“Addictions started like magical pets, pocket monsters. They did extraordinary tricks, showed you things you hadn’t seen, and were fun. But they came, through some gradual dire alchemy, to make decisions for you. Eventually, they were making your most crucial life decisions. And they were … less intelligent than goldfish.” – William Gibson.
Substance use disorder is a growing concern that affects mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. With rising statistics and serious consequences, understanding the causes, patterns, and available treatments becomes crucial. This article aims to raise awareness about substance use disorder and guide readers through its signs, impact, and pathways to recovery.

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder is a treatable yet debilitating mental health condition that can affect an individual’s brain and behavior. It is characterized by the use and dependence on substances such as alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, nicotine, inhalants, hallucinogens, and other prescription drugs. This serious condition greatly interferes with the quality of one’s relationships, work-life balance, and, more importantly, one’s sense of self. It can also lead to impulsive and unsafe behaviors, such as reckless driving, illegal drug use, or violent outbursts. These actions may carry serious legal consequences and further disrupt a person’s life.

How Common Is Substance Use Disorder?

Studies show that substance use disorders are very common. For instance, harmful alcohol use or dependence affects 5.2% of Indians (NDDTC, AIIMS). This is a serious problem because it means that every third alcohol user in India needs help with problems related to alcohol. This makes alcohol use disorder one of the most common substance-related health concerns.

Causes of Substance Use Disorders

The causes of substance use disorders can be attributed to many factors, like genetics, environmental stressors, social and peer pressure, unique personality traits, and the occurrence of other mental health conditions (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2025). Individuals who have experienced trauma, heightened anxiety, or depression may also use substances as a coping mechanism to escape or dull overwhelming emotions and inner pain (National Library of Medicine, 2020).

Patterns and Signs of Substance Use Disorder

Recognizing the patterns and signs of substance use disorder is essential for early intervention and treatment. Substance use disorder can involve two distinct phases: intoxication and withdrawal. Intoxication refers to the immediate effects of substance use, which can impair judgment, coordination, and behavior. Withdrawal, on the other hand, occurs when a person stops using the substance and may experience symptoms such as nausea, stomach cramping, or anxiety. In addition to these physical symptoms, substance use disorder can also lead to emotional, behavioral, and cognitive changes, including severe mood swings and difficulty with decision-making. These symptoms may vary and look different based on the substance one is using.

Based on the DSM-5, here are some concerning signs and patterns of this serious condition:

• Using the substance in large quantities or for longer periods than prescribed
• A strong desire or urge to use the substance
• Spending much of your time obtaining the substance or recovering from its effects
• Struggling with responsibilities at home, work, or school due to substance use
• Finding it difficult to cut down or abstain from using the substance, despite the challenges it may bring in relationships
• Giving up on social and recreational activities owing to substance use
• Continuing substance use despite the physical and psychological challenges it may pose
• Developing tolerance and needing higher doses of the substance
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms that dissipate only by using more of the substance

A diagnosis of substance use disorder requires a qualified doctor, psychiatrist, or mental health therapist. If you notice yourself or a loved one experiencing the above signs, encourage them to seek professional help.

Hope and Recovery From Substance Use Disorder

There is hope–about 75% of people recover from substance use when they access support at the correct time (Addiction Help, 2024). Remember, the opposite of addiction is connection. Create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals struggling with substance dependence. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people identify and change harmful thought patterns, and trauma-focused approaches have proven effective in treating substance use disorders. Psychiatric medications are used to treat intoxication and withdrawal. In severe cases, hospitalization and rehabilitation are needed.

Recovery Is Possible

Although it is a serious condition, substance use disorder is curable. Successful recovery is achievable with early detection, non-judgmental support, and professional assistance. People and communities can better help those impacted and promote hope and healing by being aware of the symptoms, causes, and available treatments. Recovery is real and achievable, so don’t be afraid to get treatment if you or someone you know exhibits the symptoms.