Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Understanding Symptoms and Finding Local Support
What is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a medical condition that occurs when the repeated use of alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs causes significant impairment, distress, or health problems.
SUD can range from mild to severe and may involve both physical dependence and psychological cravings. It often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Strong urges or cravings to use substances
- Difficulty controlling or reducing use
- Continuing to use despite negative consequences
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence
Causes and Risk Factors
SUD develops through a combination of:
- Biological factors – Genetics, brain chemistry, and family history
- Environmental factors – Trauma, peer influence, and availability of substances
- Mental health factors – Co-occurring psychiatric disorders, chronic stress, or unresolved trauma
SUD and Co-Occurring Disorders
When a person has both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition, it is called a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis. Effective treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously to improve recovery outcomes.
How SUD is Diagnosed
A licensed mental health or medical professional evaluates:
- Substance use patterns and their impact on daily life
- Physical and mental health history
- Criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
Treatment and Recovery Options
Mental Wellness Center does not provide direct treatment for SUD, but local providers may offer:
- Behavioral therapies – Such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Contingency Management, and Motivational Interviewing
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Using medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone for opioid use disorder; or acamprosate and disulfiram for alcohol use disorder
- Integrated care – Coordinated treatment for both mental health and substance use conditions
- Peer support programs – Recovery groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery
Living with SUD
Recovery is possible with the right treatment, community support, and coping strategies. Many people achieve long-term wellness and improved quality of life.
Substance Use Disorder Resources in Santa Barbara
We connect individuals and families to:
- Local addiction treatment centers and recovery programs
- Support groups for people with SUD and their families
- Educational workshops on mental health and substance use
Explore our mental health services directory to find local mental health specialists.
How Mental Wellness Center Can Help
- Offer referrals to local treatment providers and support groups
- Facilitate community programs to promote prevention and reduce stigma
Learn more about Mental Wellness Center’s mission to promote mental health for all.
We’re here for you.
Contact us to learn more or make an appointment. We may refer you to an educational group, a support group or one of our external partners.
To learn more about a specific mental health disorder,
go to: www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is substance use disorder the same as addiction?
Yes. The term “substance use disorder” is the medical term for what is commonly referred to as addiction.
Q: Can someone recover from SUD?
Yes. Many people achieve recovery through treatment, peer support, and lifestyle changes.
Q: How is SUD connected to mental health?
SUD often co-occurs with conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, requiring integrated treatment.
Q: What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies to treat certain substance use disorders.
Q: Does Mental Wellness Center treat SUD?
No. We provide education and connect individuals to local resources and providers.
Q: Where can I find help in Santa Barbara?
Visit our Find Help directory, Support Groups page, or contact us for referrals.
“You are not defined by your challenges, you’re defined by your courage to face them.”
Ramona Winner
MWC Family Advocate of 12 years