A substance use disorder is a pattern of alcohol or drug use that has become hard to control. Cravings, needing more for the same effect, and continued use despite harm can all be part of it. This is a health concern, not a moral failing. A screening can come before any longer plan. Dr. Ijeoma Mbionwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, offers a non-judgmental evaluation. Detox and residential programs are not provided here.
The urge to drink or use can feel hard to ignore, even after deciding to stop.
Plans to cut back may not hold. Use can continue longer, or in larger amounts, than intended.
The same amount may stop having the effect it once did. More may be needed to feel it.
Mood, sleep, or reliability at work and home may shift as use takes a larger place.
Stopping can bring sweating, shaking, nausea, or strong discomfort. Some withdrawal is a medical emergency.
Time with people who are not part of the use may shrink. Isolation can follow.
Missed shift,s late work, or trouble focusing can follow a night of heavy use.
Trust can wear thin when promises to cut back keep getting broken.
Meals, bathing, and sleep may turn irregular as use takes priority over the rest of the day.
Bills, driving, and everyday decisions may start to depend on the next drink or dose.
Use becomes a larger problem when it crowds out work, health, or people you care about. A screening visit can be a first look, not a final label. Shaking, confusion, or a seizure after stopping alcohol or certain drugs needs emergency care. Call 911. StarMaris does not provide detox or residential care. Safety comes first. A referral to a higher level of care is arranged when safety requires it. Medicine and talk-based support may still be discussed when an outpatient plan fits.
Care looks at the whole person: sleep, stress, relationships, physical health, other conditions, and goals. The plan is personalized and evidence-based, from a board-certified PMHNP, in Orlando or by telehealth across Florida.
A visit reviews use, health, sleep, mood, and what daily life looks like now.
Medicine may be discussed when an outpatient plan fits. Side effects are reviewed over time.
Talking through stress, cravings, and relationships may support care alongside other treatment.
If needs change, the plan can include a referral and follow-up once a safer setting is in place.
The visit starts with an honest look at use, health, sleep, and what has been hardest.
From there, you and your provider discuss options that fit your needs and safety.
Follow-up visits leave room for questions, side effects, and changes in how the week is going.
If alcohol or drug use is getting harder to control, Schedule Your Appointment or Call 407-616-1691. Visits are in Orlando or by telehealth across Florida. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911.
Getting started with StarMaris is simple. Please complete the forms below before your first appointment to help us provide timely, personalized psychiatric care. Referring providers can submit patient referrals securely online. For questions, call us at 407-616-1691.