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Understanding Substance Use Disorder

Understanding Substance Use Disorder

Recognize the signs and get help.

How Do I Recognize Unhealthy Substance Use?

It can be hard to recognize signs of substance use. After all, you might not think twice about some of the subtle signs that appear to be innocent. Pay attention to your intuition. If you notice some of the signs below, you may be dealing with a loved one who has an unhealthy relationship with substances. Or, perhaps you recognize some of these habits in your own life. Some possible signs include:3

  • Problems at school or work. Frequent absences, a sudden disinterest in school activities or work, or a drop in performance.
  • Physical health issues. Lack of energy and motivation, weight loss or gain, or red eyes.
  • Neglected appearance or overall health. Lack of interest in clothing, grooming or looks, as well as physical wellbeing.
  • Changes in behavior. Drastic changes in behavior or in relationships with family and friends. Things like exaggerated efforts to keep family members out of their room and being secretive about where they go with friends.
  • Money issues. Sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation, discovering that money may be missing or stolen, or that items may have disappeared from your home that may be sold to support drug use.
  • Substance use patterns. Using more of a substance to get the same effect, using substances more frequently than before, exhibiting  physical symptoms of withdrawal (e.g. excessive hunger, noticeable fatigue, dilated pupils, anxiety), when unable to use a substance or spending more time trying to get the substance.

When Should I Call the Substance Use Helpline?

Concerned about yourself or a loved one? Substance use resources are available to help you get the support you need. Call the 24-hour Substance Use Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 / TTY 711 to talk to a specialized substance use recovery advocate. You’ll get confidential support, guidance on recommended treatment options, help finding a network provider, and answers to many of your questions — including concerns about your personal health or care for a family member, coverage, cost of care, and more. Even if you’re not 100% sure it’s time to take next steps, talking with a recovery advocate may help you decide what might be best for you or someone you care about.

  1. Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health addiction.surgeongeneral.gov, 2016.
  2. Addiction vs. Dependence: Differences in Drug Abuse Terms addictioncenter.com, 2021. 
  3. Drug addiction: Risk factors mayoclinic.org, 2019.

Article originally published on uhc.com. Substance Use Disorder. https://www.uhc.com/health-and-wellness/health-topics/substance-use-disorder Accessed April 20, 2022

If you have questions or concerns, call the 24-hour Substance Use Helpline at 1-855-780-5955 / TTY 711 or tap these substance use resources.