What is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable mental disorder that affects a person’s brain and behavior. It leads to their inability to control their use of substances like legal or illegal drugs, alcohol or medications.

Symptoms can be moderate to severe. Addiction is the most severe form of SUD.

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

You can help your loved one recognize the signs of substance use disorder. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (American Psychiatric Association), symptoms may include:

  • Using more of a substance than intended or for longer than intended
  • Wanting to cut down/stop using, but not managing to
  • Spending a lot of time to get/use/recover from use
  • Craving
  • Inability to manage commitments due to use
  • Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships
  • Giving up important activities because of use
  • Continuing to use, even in dangerous situations
  • Continuing to use, even when physical or psychological problems may be made worse by use
  • Increasing tolerance
  • Withdrawal symptoms

When to Seek Care for Substance Use Disorder

If you think you or someone you love is showing symptoms of a substance use disorder, talk to your healthcare provider. Primary care providers will talk with you about your symptoms during the visit. They will review your medical and mental health histories. Many people with a SUD are also diagnosed with another behavioral health disorder.

Your primary care doctor can also help refer you or your loved one to our licensed behavioral health specialists. Your mental health well-being is just as important as your physical health. Contact your primary care doctor today.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself, either go to Cape Fear Valley Health Emergency Department or call 911. 

Our Approach to Substance Use Disorder Diagnosis

Our substance abuse services fall under the care of psychotherapists in the Community Mental Health Center. The initial assessment is conducted by a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) who will then develop a treatment plan for ongoing care in collaboration with the patient. Youc an schedule an appointment at (910) 615-3333.

Substance Use Disorder Treatment at Cape Fear Valley Health

Individual, Group and Family Therapy
Medication Management
Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Assessment
Psychiatric Evaluation
Psychological Testing and Evaluations
Psychotherapy
Telehealth

Why Choose Cape Fear Valley Health for Substance Use Disorder Treatment?

  • The largest provider in southeast North Carolina

    We are known as the largest healthcare system offering behavioral health services in Cumberland County and the six-county area. We have 35,000 office visits annually.

  • The highest standards for care

  • A person-centered approach

    If you are diagnosed with anxiety, you’ll have a team trained in using a person-centered approach. They emphasize choice, collaboration and empowerment. Your behavioral health services team may include: • Master’s-level Licensed Adult and Child Psychotherapists • Registered Nurses • Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists • Licensed Clinical Psychologist • Board-certified Adult Psychiatrists • Board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists • Board-certified Psychologists • Licensed Physician Assistants • Licensed Nurse Practitioners

  • Supportive behavioral healthcare services

    If you are diagnosed with a mental disorder, you’ll have access to the full range of Cape Fear Valley Health services. Patients choose us because our friendly doctors and staff love the community we serve.

  • Offering affordable care for the area

    The Community Mental Health Center at Cape Fear Valley accepts Tricare, Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurances. We also offer a sliding fee scale adjusted for a patient’s ability to pay. Services are available to all Cumberland County residents regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

Next Steps