Most Common Substance Use Disorders: Signs, Causes, and Support Options

Substance use disorders (SUDs) affect millions of people worldwide, including individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Despite their prevalence, many people still struggle with recognizing the signs, understanding the causes, or knowing where to find help. If you or someone you care about is dealing with substance misuse, it’s important to know you’re not alone, and that effective, compassionate support is available.

At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we help individuals and families navigate the challenges of the most common substance use disorders with personalized, evidence-based care. When you’re ready to take the next step, call (386) 866-8689 for confidential support.

What Is a Substance Use Disorder?

A substance use disorder occurs when the repeated use of drugs or alcohol leads to harmful consequences and changes in brain function. These changes can make controlling use difficult, even when a person wants to stop.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), SUD is diagnosed based on patterns of behavior, physical dependence, loss of control, and ongoing use despite negative impacts on health, relationships, or responsibilities.

Understanding which substances are most commonly involved can help you identify warning signs early and get support sooner.

1. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Alcohol Use Disorder is one of the most common forms of SUD in the United States. It ranges from mild to severe and is characterized by:

• Drinking more or longer than intended

• Inability to cut down despite efforts

• Cravings and strong urges to drink

• Continued use despite health or legal problems

• Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

Because alcohol is legal and widely available, many people underestimate its potential for dependence and harm. Untreated AUD can lead to serious health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and cognitive impairment.

2. Opioid Use Disorder

Opioids include prescription pain medications (like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine) and illegal drugs like heroin. Opioid Use Disorder has reached epidemic levels in parts of the U.S. due to:

• Overprescribing

• Easy access to powerful painkillers

• High addictive potential

Opioid misuse often involves escalating doses, intense cravings, and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Because opioids interact directly with the brain’s reward and pain systems, dependence can develop quickly, sometimes after only a short period of regular use.

3. Stimulant Use Disorder

Stimulants such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription ADHD medications (when misused) fall into this category. Stimulant Use Disorder is associated with:

• Intense euphoria followed by crashes

• Rapid heart rate or increased blood pressure

• Restlessness, anxiety, or paranoia

• Difficulty sleeping

• Risky behavior

Because stimulants act on dopamine pathways, they can create powerful cravings and heighten the risk of addiction.

4. Cannabis Use Disorder

Although marijuana is legal in many states and often viewed as “benign,” regular heavy use can lead to dependence and impairment in some individuals. Signs of Cannabis Use Disorder may include:

• Difficulty cutting back

• Spending excessive time using or obtaining cannabis

• Interference with goals or responsibilities

• Withdrawal symptoms like irritability or sleep problems

Because cannabis use can affect motivation and cognition, it may be particularly challenging for some people to manage without support.

5. Nicotine Use Disorder

Nicotine, commonly consumed through cigarettes, vaping, or smokeless tobacco, is highly addictive. Nicotine Use Disorder is associated with:

• Intense cravings

• Difficulty quitting despite health warnings

• Continued use even with respiratory or cardiovascular issues

• Withdrawal symptoms like irritability and difficulty concentrating

Nicotine addiction contributes to preventable illnesses and remains one of the most widespread substance use challenges globally.

6. Benzodiazepine Use Disorder

Benzodiazepines, prescription medications like Xanax, Valium, or Ativan, are often used to treat anxiety or insomnia. While helpful under medical supervision, prolonged use or misuse can lead to dependence and SUD, characterized by:

• Tolerance (needing more for the same effect)

• Withdrawal symptoms when stopping

• Difficulty controlling use

• Emotional dependence

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be particularly uncomfortable and should be medically supervised.

7. Polysubstance Use Disorder

Many individuals with substance use disorders don’t just struggle with one substance, they use multiple drugs or alcohol in combination. Polysubstance Use Disorder can be more complicated to treat because interactions between substances can increase:

• Health risks

• Withdrawal severity

• Emotional instability

• Treatment complexity

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Substance use disorders are not simply a matter of personal weakness. They arise from a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors:

Biological Factors

• Genetic vulnerability

• Brain chemistry and reward system changes

• Family history of addiction

Psychological Factors

• Anxiety, depression, or trauma

• Poor coping skills

• Unresolved emotional pain

Environmental Factors

• Stressful life events

• Peer or social influences

• Easy access to substances

Understanding these influences helps guide personalized care and reduces stigma around seeking help.

Signs It’s Time to Seek Help

If substance use is starting to interfere with your health, relationships, work, or sense of self, professional support can make a life-changing difference. Common warning signs include:

• Loss of control over use

• Increasing tolerance

• Withdrawal symptoms

• Frequent cravings

• Failed attempts to cut back

• Neglecting responsibilities

• Relationship conflict

• Legal or financial problems

You don’t need to wait until the situation becomes critical; early intervention improves outcomes.

Effective Treatment Options

Recovery from SUD is possible with the right combination of care. Treatment may include:

Medical Detox

Safely managing withdrawal symptoms under clinical supervision.

Individual Counseling

Exploring emotional triggers and building coping skills.

Group Therapy

Providing support, shared experiences, and encouragement.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Teaching strategies to change harmful thought patterns.

Family Counseling

Rebuilding trust and support systems.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

Maintaining long-term sobriety through continued support.

At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we tailor care to your needs, guiding you through every step of detox, therapy, and life beyond treatment.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

No matter which substance you or a loved one is struggling with, help is available, and recovery can begin today. You deserve support that meets you where you are and helps you build the life you want.

📞 Call DeLand Treatment Solutions at (386) 866-8689

Our compassionate team is ready to support your path to healing, growth, and long-lasting recovery.