9781422282458

13 CHAPTER ONE: SUBSTANCES AND MENTAL ILLNESS

WHAT IS A SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER?

A substance use disorder is when a person keeps using drugs or alcohol even though the use is causing significant problems. These problems might include damage to physical health, disabilities, or difficulty meeting commitments at work, school, or with family. Some signs of substance use disorders include: • changes in appetite or sleeping patterns • unexplained changes in personality or attitude • a drop in school or work performance • frequently getting into trouble at school, work, or home • a decline in personal hygiene or appearance • a sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies

People with substance use disorders may be embarrassed or unwilling to admit they have a problem. They may also be unaware of the harm they are doing to themselves and those around them.

People with substance use disorders continue their behavior even though their use creates problems in their lives.