Substance use disorder refers to the excessive use of alcohol, nicotine, or illicit drugs, such as opioids, inhalants, hallucinogens, and stimulants. People who begin to abuse these substances initially experience a kind of euphoria, which typically leads to more usage. As they become more dependent on the drugs, they’re at risk of experiencing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that make it much harder to stop using.
In many cases, people with substance use disorders experience changes in their health and social functions. As a chronic disease, SUD can have lasting effects the longer it goes untreated. It’s critical to seek care to help treat any substance use disorder by contacting an addiction rehabilitation center for a proper assessment and diagnosis.

