Substance Use Disorder
Substance use means using alcohol or drugs. For some people, this use can increase over time and lead to addiction. Substance use disorder (SUD) happens when a person keeps using alcohol and/or drugs even though it causes problems in their life — such as issues at school, work, or home.
Even if a young person's substance use does not reach the level of a disorder or addiction, it can still be harmful. It might lead to poor grades, conflicts with friends or family, or risky behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How common is substance use disorder?
Substance use disorder is one of the most common mental health disorders in teens and young adults.
For Parents and Caregivers: What should I do if I suspect my child may have substance use disorder?
Start by keeping an eye on the situation and talking openly with your child. Share your concerns with your child's medical provider, teachers, or school counselor. Ask about local resources and support that might be helpful.
For Youth: What should I do if I think I may have a problem with substance use?
Talk to an adult you trust, such as a teacher, family member, or medical provider. You don't have to face this alone.
What kind of help is there for substance use disorder?
Common ways treat substance use problems include:
- Behavior therapy: Talking with a therapist can help to manage stress and emotions in a healthier way, and help you understand what leads to substance use. Some people might benefit from inpatient programs - when they stay at a treatment center for a while to get help.
- Medication: Sometimes medical providers use medication to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, or treat related issues like anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.
- Recovery services: The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports has free drop-in centers that provide peer support, skill building, and community activities.
What other conditions are common in people with substance use disorder?
People with substance use disorder might also have depression, anxiety, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sometimes a person starts using drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating because of an underlying mental health condition. Be open with your medical provider about all symptoms so they can help with everything, not just substance use.
Talking with a Medical Provider
When talking with medical providers or specialists, you might want to:
- Bring notes! Document changes that you and others have noticed and when they started.
- Discuss whether this is typical teen behavior or becoming a problem.
- Ask if anxiety, depression, or neurodiversity (a term for all the different ways our brains work) could be related to the substance use.
What You Can Do at Home
Getting help can take time, and there may be waiting lists. In the meantime, it might help to:
- Be honest and clear: Have a private conversation about your concerns and the changes in behavior that you're noticing.
- Listen without judgement: Give your child a safe space to open up about what they're dealing with.
- Offer reassurance: Let your child know that you are there to help, not to shame, punish, or blame them.
Learning about substance use disorder and getting help is a journey. You're not alone.
Go Deeper
Find Resources
Search New York State
Families, caregivers, youth, and community partners in New York State can use this searchable resource guide to find information, services, and support. ACT for Youth.
New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS)
OASAS is New York State's lead agency for addressing overdose, substance use disorders, and problem gambling. In NYS, you can call 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or text 467369 any time to talk to someone about substance use or gambling harms.
Understanding Substances and Mental Health
Types of Substances
Alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and prescription medications affect the health and well-being of millions of Americans. On this website you'll find information on many different types of substances. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Drugs, Alcohol, and Mental Health
Even if you don't think your child is likely to engage in drug or alcohol use, it's important to know what signs to look for and what conversations to have. This collection of articles includes topics on the interconnection of drugs, alcohol, and mental health. Child Mind Institute.
For Parents: Learning About Drugs
Knowing what drugs are available, what they can do, and how they can affect someone is the first step in raising drug-free kids. Nemours.
For Teens: Learning About Addiction, Drugs, and Alcohol
This collection of articles aims to help teens better understand drugs (including tobacco), alcohol, and dealing with addiction. Nemours.
Prevention and Harm Reduction
Talking with Your Teen
You have more influence than you think. In this article, a pediatrician guides parents in having conversations that can make a difference when it comes to teens, alcohol, and drugs. American Academy of Pediatricians.
What Is Harm Reduction?
Harm reduction is a public health approach that focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of substance use and other risky behaviors. It promotes safety, dignity, and evidence-based strategies — such as naloxone distribution, test strips and prevention education — to reduce health risks and save lives. OASAS.
Treatment and Recovery
Understanding Recovery
SAMHSA defines recovery as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. SAMHSA.
FindTreatment.gov
On this site, learn about treatment options, paying for treatment, and more. SAMHSA.
About This Series
This series of handouts and web pages on health conditions was written by clinicians in Weill Cornell Medicine's Pediatric Mental Health Integration Program, partners in the ACT for Youth CYSHCN Program Center of Excellence at Cornell University.
