Substance Use Disorder

Overcoming dependency is a journey of courage and resilience. At East Texas Psychiatry, we provide the medical expertise and compassionate support you need to break the cycle of addiction and reclaim your future.

Substance Use Disorder | Symptoms & Treatment | East Texas Psychiatry

What are Substance Use Disorders?

Substance use disorders are mental health conditions that arise following repeated exposure to addictive substances, such as alcohol, opioids, stimulants, or prescription medications. Unlike casual use, substance use disorders involve persistent, compulsive behaviors that interfere with an individual's ability to function in daily life.

According to clinical data, approximately 16.5% of U.S. adults will experience a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in their lifetime. These conditions often co-occur with Anxiety Management and Depression, making specialized clinical care essential for recovery.

At East Texas Psychiatry and Counseling, we provide a safe environment to explore these challenges. Our goal is to help you move from a state of survival to a place of thriving through integrated medication management and evidence-based psychotherapy care.

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Types of Substance Use Disorders

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Characterized by an inability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences in daily life.

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

A chronic condition occurring with the misuse of prescription pain relievers or illicit drugs. Often requires specialized medical stabilization.

Stimulant Use Disorder

Resulting from prolonged use of substances like cocaine or methamphetamines. Focuses heavily on neurological recovery and behavioral health.

Sedative Use Disorders

An emotional or behavioral dependency on anti-anxiety or sleep medications that is more intense than what is medically expected.

Substance Use Disorder Symptoms

Intrusive & Physical Symptoms

  • Recurrent, unwanted cravings for the drug
  • Reliving triggers (environmental cues)
  • Withdrawal symptoms or "flu-like" feelings
  • Severe physical distress when stopping use
  • Physical reactions (shaking, sweating, nausea)
  • Hypervigilance regarding substance supply
  • Exaggerated irritability when not using
  • Sleep disturbances or insomnia

Avoidance & Mood Changes

  • Avoiding family and responsibilities to use
  • Avoiding places or people that discourage use
  • Persistent negative thoughts about recovery
  • Hopelessness about quitting in the future
  • Memory problems or "blackouts" from use
  • Difficulty maintaining close relationships
  • Feeling detached from family/friends
  • Difficulty experiencing natural positive emotions

The Diagnosis Process

Comprehensive Assessment

Our 60-minute Psychiatric Evaluation involves a deep dive into your history and symptoms in a supportive atmosphere.

Clinical Rating Scales

We utilize tools like the DAST-10 to objectively measure substance severity and track your healing progress over time.

Differential Diagnosis

Addiction often overlaps with Mood Disorders. We ensure an accurate diagnosis for truly effective treatment.

Why Choose East Texas Psychiatry

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Specialized Expertise

Providers trained in Dual Diagnosis Care and complex psychiatric addiction presentations.

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Thorough Evaluations

We take the time to listen and understand the full context of your life experiences.

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Evidence-Based Care

Treatments and medications backed by the latest mental health research.

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Convenient Access

Telepsychiatry available for patients throughout the state of Texas.

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Clinical References

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
  • National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Understanding Drug Use and Addiction. nida.nih.gov
  • SAMHSA. Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States. samhsa.gov
  • CDC. Drug Overdose and Recovery Resources. cdc.gov
  • Mayo Clinic. Drug addiction (substance use disorder). mayoclinic.org

Common Questions About Substance Use Disorders

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation where we assess your history against clinical criteria, focusing on the frequency of use, withdrawal signs, and how use impacts your social and work life.

We offer an integrated approach including Medication Management to stabilize cravings and specialized psychotherapy to process the behavioral triggers and underlying mental health issues contributing to use.

Yes. Medication Management can effectively address symptoms like physical cravings, anxiety, and sleep disturbances (such as insomnia) that often accompany the early stages of the recovery process.

Absolutely. We provide secure Telepsychiatry services for patients throughout Texas, ensuring you can access expert care from the safety and comfort of your home while maintaining privacy.

It is very common for addiction to co-occur with Depression or Anxiety Disorders. Our evaluations are comprehensive to ensure all your co-occurring needs are fully addressed.

Yes. With proper Mood Disorder Management and specialized therapy, most individuals see significant reduction in cravings and a major improvement in their overall quality of life and health.

You can start your journey by visiting our Contact Page to schedule your initial consultation with our Tyler-based team. We are here to support your path to sobriety.

Healing from Addiction Starts Here

You don't have to carry the weight of the past alone. Our compassionate team in Tyler is here to help you find safety, stability, and a path toward a brighter future.

Call (430) 288-5800
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