Substance Abuse

What is a Substance Abuse Disorder?

Substance Abuse disorders are a group of conditions that occur when the repeated use of alcohol or drugs causes significant impairment in a person’s life. This can include problems at work or school, issues in relationships, and even physical or mental health challenges. For those struggling, it often feels like the substance is in control — not them.

Substance use disorders can take many forms, including alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, stimulant use disorder, and more.

It’s estimated that over 20 million people in the United States are living with a substance use disorder. That’s about 1 in every 12 adults. Despite how common it is, many people suffer in silence due to stigma or fear of judgment — but help is available, and recovery is possible.

What is a Substance Abuse Disorder?

Substance Abuse disorders are a group of conditions that occur when the repeated use of alcohol or drugs causes significant impairment in a person’s life. This can include problems at work or school, issues in relationships, and even physical or mental health challenges. For those struggling, it often feels like the substance is in control — not them.

Substance use disorders can take many forms, including alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, stimulant use disorder, and more.

It’s estimated that over 20 million people in the United States are living with a substance use disorder. That’s about 1 in every 12 adults. Despite how common it is, many people suffer in silence due to stigma or fear of judgment — but help is available, and recovery is possible.

Common Characteristics Of Substance Abuse

Cravings and Compulsions

A strong urge or desire to use the substance regularly, daily or even multiple times a day. Without the feeling of being able to stop at your own will.

Withdrawl Symptoms

Physical or emotional symptoms when not using the substance, such as anxiety, sweating, shaking, nausea, depression, or irritability.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Missing work, school, or family obligations due to substance use. A Decline in performance or motivation in things you before found intrest.

Secrecy and Isolation

Feeling the need to hide use from others or becoming socially withdrawn. ying or being evasive about behaviors and habits.

Cravings and Compulsions

A strong urge or desire to use the substance regularly, daily or even multiple times a day. Without the feeling of being able to stop at your own will.

Withdrawl Symptoms

Physical or emotional symptoms when not using the substance, such as anxiety, sweating, shaking, nausea, depression, or irritability.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Missing work, school, or family obligations due to substance use. A Decline in performance or motivation in things you before found intrest.

Secrecy and Isolation

Feeling the need to hide use from others or becoming socially withdrawn. ying or being evasive about behaviors and habits.

Common Symptoms Of Substance Abuse?

The symptoms of substance abuse vary from person to person but may include:

  • Cravings and Compulsion
  • Withdrawal Symptoms
  • Neglecting Responsibilities
  • Risky Behavior
  • Loss of Interest
  • Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences
  • Secrecy and Isolation
  • Failed attempts to quit

These characteristics can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, but recognizing them is often the first step toward seeking help and recovery. At San Clemente Detox, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Common Symptoms Of Substance Abuse?

The symptoms of substance abuse vary from person to person but may include:

  • Cravings and Compulsion
  • Withdrawal Symptoms
  • Neglecting Responsibilities
  • Risky Behavior
  • Loss of Interest
  • Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences
  • Secrecy and Isolation
  • Failed attempts to quit

These characteristics can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, but recognizing them is often the first step toward seeking help and recovery. At San Clemente Detox, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Our Approach To Treating Substance Abuse Disorders

At San Clemente Detox, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual’s needs. Our approach combines:

  • Medical Detoxification: Safely manage withdrawal symptoms while clearing the body of substances. Conducted under medical supervision, especially for alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, which can have serious withdrawal effects.
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Treats substance abuse alongside co-occurring mental health disorders.
  • Behavioral Therapy: Uses counseling techniques like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and other therapies to change harmful thoughts and behaviors.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medication with therapy to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
  • Individual and Group Counseling: Offers personal support and peer connection to promote recovery and accountability.
  • Family Therapy: Involves loved ones to heal relationships and create a supportive home environment.
  • Relapse Prevention Planning: Equips individuals with tools to recognize triggers and avoid returning to use.
  • Aftercare and Support: Provides ongoing services like 12-step meetings or sober living to maintain sobriety.

Our Approach To Treating Substance Abuse Disorders

At San Clemente Detox, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each individual’s needs. Our approach combines:

  • Medical Detoxification: Safely manage withdrawal symptoms while clearing the body of substances. Conducted under medical supervision, especially for alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, which can have serious withdrawal effects.
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Treats substance abuse alongside co-occurring mental health disorders.
  • Behavioral Therapy: Uses counseling techniques like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and other therapies to change harmful thoughts and behaviors.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medication with therapy to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
  • Individual and Group Counseling: Offers personal support and peer connection to promote recovery and accountability.
  • Family Therapy: Involves loved ones to heal relationships and create a supportive home environment.
  • Relapse Prevention Planning: Equips individuals with tools to recognize triggers and avoid returning to use.
  • Aftercare and Support: Provides ongoing services like 12-step meetings or sober living to maintain sobriety.