Responses for Q&A on Novel Strategies for Treating Alcohol and Substance Dependencies
Hey there! Get the latest on Substance Use Disorders this National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. We're stepping into a new era in the diagnosis and treatment of these issues, and we've enlisted experts from Ria Health, Bicycle Health, and our own team to get the inside scoop.
Let's tackle that stigma around Substance Use Disorders! Aimee Peters LCSW of Ria Health says, "We need to dispel the myths that SUDs are due to poor moral character, and that sheer willpower is all that is needed to change behavior." These old-school ideas that SUDs are an individual failing or sign of weakness lead to shame and suffering, preventing people from seeking the treatment they need.
Dr. Brian Clear, MD, FASAM, Chief Medical Officer of Bicycle Health, adds that receiving help can be especially challenging when the illness is stigmatized. "It's normal to resist that stigmatized label, and that's one reason people struggling with addiction are reluctant to raise their hand and say, 'I have a problem, please help,' before it's reached extreme stages."
To reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help, we should educate society as a whole about SUDs as treatable chronic health conditions, just like other illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension. There's even evidence that early intervention can be very effective in treating SUDs. Our website's experts Erica Patton Simpson and Erin Mack stress that healthcare providers should proactively screen for SUDs, rather than waiting for individuals to come forward.
When it comes to recognizing signs of SUDs in friends and family, changes in behavior are key. These may include social withdrawal, erratic moods, or declines in work or academic performance. Subtle signs like changes in mood or withdrawing from social activities can easily go unnoticed, so having open and supportive conversations is essential.
Effective strategies for prevention can involve community education about safe use practices, such as limiting access to harmful substances. Age limits and restrictions are also effective SUD prevention strategies. Proven campaigns like "Truth" and "SmokeFree.gov" highlight accurate information about health impacts and promote open conversations about substance use.
If you're struggling with SUDs, know that you're not alone. Virtual treatments like those offered by Ria Health and Bicycle Health combine medication assisted treatment with counseling or therapy, and provide a safe and discreet space for you to get the help you need. The road to recovery is just a click away.
Mental health issues like anxiety and depression, often co-occurring with substance use disorders (SUDs), can benefit from the expertise of licensed therapists who specialize in treating these conditions. The field of SUD treatment is progressing, with science-based approaches, such as medication-assisted treatment and cognitive-behavioral therapy, being integrated into health-and-wellness programs. It's crucial to normalize seeking help for SUDs and other mental health concerns, eliminating the stigma and shame that may prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.
