Addiction

Problems with drugs and alcohol come in many forms and levels of severity. Most experts use the term ‘Addiction’ to refer to the most severe form of problem, but it can also be called Substance Use Disorder (SUD). This can look like people continuing to use despite the negative consequences. Today, SUD is a highly treatable health condition. Treating addiction is sometimes called Recovery, and means helping you live an independent life.

 

There are different factors listed below that affect how likely and how quickly someone might develop SUD. Having one or more of these factors might increase your chances of developing SUD.

Genetics

If you have someone in your family who has had a substance use disorder, this could increase your risk.

 

Gender

Males are more likely to develop SUD than females.

 

Age at first use

Starting substance use at an early age

 

Psychological factors

If you have other mental health disorders or personality traits that increase your sensation-seeking or make you more impulsive, you might be at a higher risk.

 

Environmental Influences

This means if people around you are also using substances, how easy it is to get get substances, your exposure to traumatic events such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.

 

Support Involvement

Lack of family, parental, or peer support can have a huge impact on your substance use.

 

More Information

 


Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) is the use of medications like Methadone, Buprenorphine, Subutex, and Naltrexone to treat opioid addiction. The ultimate goal of MOUD is to help you with recovery.

Learn about Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Get Help

If you are ready to get help for your substance use, there are many places you can go in Rhode Island for treatment. This includes places where you can get medication, get support from other people in recovery, or get medical support.

Click here to Get Help