Substance-use concerns

What it can feel like

• Using more than intended or spending a lot of time recovering
• Repeated attempts to cut down that do not last
• Needing more for the same effect or feeling sick when stopping
• Use continuing despite health, work, legal, financial, or relationship harm

What an evaluation considers

A clinician considers substance, amount, frequency, route, cravings, withdrawal, overdose, mixing substances, consequences, mental-health symptoms, pain, trauma, and readiness for change.

First steps

Do not abruptly stop heavy alcohol or benzodiazepine use without medical advice. Avoid using alone, carry naloxone when opioids may be involved, and contact a treatment service.