A PRACTICAL RESOURCE

Substance Use Disorder

Whether it's you or someone you love, the right support makes all the difference

IN THIS GUIDE

Understanding substance use disorder — what's happening in the brain, and what recovery looks like

Substance use disorder is one of the most misunderstood conditions in mental health — and one of the most treatable when approached correctly. This page walks through what SUD actually is, why it develops, how it shows up differently across ages and substances, and what a thorough evaluation looks like.

You'll also find information on co-occurring mental health conditions, treatment options including medication-assisted treatment, and a dedicated section on substance use adolescents. Whether you're concerned about yourself or someone you love, this guide is a place to start making sense of what's happening and what help is available.

What substance use disorder looks like

Signs and symptoms

Why it's so hard to just stop

Common substances involved in SUD

Mental health and substance use: the connection

Treatment and support

Substance abuse disorder in adolescents

Frequently asked questions

Take the next step