Q: Which doctor should I consult for treatment of substance abuse disorder?
A: A psychiatrist or psychologist can help in the treatment of substance abuse disorder.
Q: Is substance abuse disorder due to mental disorder?
A: Substance abuse and mental disorders do not directly cause each other but are interrelated. A person with mental disorders is vulnerable to taking to substances like drugs in an attempt to overcome the depression or anxiety. A person who has been introduced to drugs may also have symptoms of anxiety and depression when he or she is not able to get the drugs.
Q: Can you get addicted to the substances if you have once in a while?
A: Most people who become dependent on substances like alcohol and drugs mean to have it only once, or occasionally. But the brain takes over this feeling of pleasure and euphoria and creates cravings for the same. Gradually, before the person realizes, he or she becomes addicted and dependent on the substance.
Q: Can I smoke cigarettes while I am in a residential treatment facility?
A: Residential facilities are tobacco-free zones. Nicotine replacement therapies such as patch or gum will also be available with the residential programs so that you need not worry about smoking.
Q: If substance abuse disorder is a disease, can it be cured?
A: 'Cure' for substance abuse disorder is largely dependent on the affected person. Drugs can work with the withdrawal symptoms and psychotherapy and counseling can only go so far as to help the person. But the person with substance abuse disorder has to put in all his determination to task and overcome the condition.
