Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Spotting the Warning Signs of Substance Abuse

Spotting the Warning Signs of Substance Abuse

Nearly 21 million Americans struggle with addiction but only 10% seek treatment for it. Substance abuse can affect your mental health and can wreak havoc in many areas of your life.

Venice Sanchez, MD, and the rest of her team in Newport Beach, California are experts in treating substance use disorders. Whether you’re concerned for yourself or a loved one, we want to share the warning signs of substance abuse so you know when it’s time to get help. 

Defining substance abuse disorder

A substance use disorder is a condition involving the uncontrolled use of drugs or alcohol despite severe negative consequences. If you have a substance abuse disorder, your ability to function in day-to-day life is often impaired, and your sole focus is on using the substance. A severe substance use disorder is classified as an addiction.

How to know if you have a substance abuse disorder

Substance abuse disorder can cause several symptoms that can affect your physical, mental, and emotional health. 

There are common warning signs of substance abuse, including:

A major warning sign of substance abuse is not being able to stop using the substance even when the consequences are causing issues in your relationships and your workplace. If you or someone you love is displaying these symptoms, speak to Dr. Sanchez about treatment options. 

Treatment options

Addiction is extremely difficult to overcome on your own. Dr. Sanchez offers a variety of treatment options to help you give up drugs or alcohol. Additionally, she treats any psychiatric issues that may be hindering you from moving past your substance abuse disorder.

Dr. Sanchez uses a combination of medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes to help you move toward sobriety. She may prescribe you Suboxone® and Sublocade® to fight against any withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, she helps you come up with a plan to change your habits and resolve any issues that might be contributing to your addiction.

If you’d like to take the next steps in seeking professional help for your substance abuse, call our office at 949-269-6147 or use our online scheduler to request an appointment today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

5 Ways TMS Therapy Improves Cognitive Function

5 Ways TMS Therapy Improves Cognitive Function

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is incredibly effective at helping manage mental health disorders that are resistant to first lines of treatment, and this innovative treatment can also improve cognitive function. Learn how here. 
 How Long After a Traumatic Event Can PTSD Occur?

 How Long After a Traumatic Event Can PTSD Occur?

After experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, it can take weeks, months, or even years for PTSD symptoms to manifest fully. Learn what it might mean to develop late-onset PTSD and when to get treatment for it here. 

Does OCD Run in Families?

Although there is a genetic element to the onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), having a family member with OCD doesn’t guarantee you’ll also have the condition. Learn the role of genetics in OCD development here.
 4 Tips to Manage Depression During the Holidays

4 Tips to Manage Depression During the Holidays

Do you dread the holiday season, knowing your depression is only going to get worse with each holiday party and family gathering? We discuss how to effectively manage your depression so you can enjoy the holidays here.

Breaking Down the Science Behind TMS Therapy

Living with a psychiatric condition that doesn’t respond to typical treatments can be incredibly frustrating. Discover how TMS therapy does things differently, directly influencing brain activity and reducing your symptoms here.