Substance Use Disorders

What Are Substance Use Disorders?

Substance use disorders can develop when alcohol, medications, or other substances begin affecting health, behavior, relationships, responsibilities, or daily functioning. Symptoms and severity can vary from person to person.

Strong Cravings

Feeling a powerful or frequent urge to use a substance.

Loss of Control

Using more often or for longer than originally intended.

Increased Tolerance

Needing larger amounts to experience the same effect.

Changes in Behavior

Unusual, unpredictable, or significantly altered behavior that may interfere with daily functioning.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing physical or emotional discomfort when reducing use.

Social Withdrawal

Using substances despite negative effects on health or relationships.

How Substance Use May Affect Daily Life

Work & School

Attendance, concentration, and performance may become more difficult.

Relationships

Substance use may affect trust, communication, and connection with others.

Self-Care & Routine

Ongoing use may contribute to physical and emotional health concerns.

Independence

Responsibilities, self-care, and healthy habits may become harder to maintain.

When Substance Use Affects Everyday Life

Professional support may be helpful when substance use becomes difficult to control or begins interfering with health, relationships, or daily functioning.

Common concerns may include:

  • Increasing frequency or amount of substance use
  • Difficulty reducing or stopping use
  • Problems at work, school, or home
  • Using substances to cope with stress or emotions

How StarMaris Can Help

Our providers consider your substance use history, mental health symptoms, medications, medical background, and daily functioning when developing an individualized care plan.

Psychiatric Evaluation

Assessment of substance use, mental health symptoms, and current concerns.

Medication Management

Medication support when clinically appropriate for related conditions.

Supportive Psychotherapy

Support for coping, motivation, emotional regulation, and healthier behaviors.

Coordinated Ongoing Care

Continued monitoring based on recovery needs and treatment goals.

What to Expect

Evaluation

We discuss your concerns, substance use history, and daily functioning.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Recommendations are developed based on your individual needs.

Continued Support

Progress is monitored and care may be adjusted when appropriate.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If substance use is affecting your health, relationships, or daily life, StarMaris Advanced Psychiatry Care is here to provide thoughtful evaluation and personalized support.