Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is the excessive use of a drug or substance, despite the harmful consequences that may occur. Individuals that abuse certain drugs or substances become addicted to these substances and cannot control their ability to resist the intense urges to take them. This abuse can affect a person’s physical health and personal or social functioning. Substance abuse can include regular, excessive, compulsive drinking of alcohol, and/or the habitual use of illegal or prescription drugs or other harmful substances. Substance abuse is a serious and dangerous condition that affects millions of people in the United States each year. Severe substance abuse can destroy relationships, end careers, and lead to stroke, heart disease, brain damage, cancer, and even death.
Causes of Substance Abuse
People may turn to substances like alcohol, drugs and tobacco for various reasons including pleasure, relaxation, anxiety, or relief of depression. Traumatic events, stress or chaotic home lives may trigger a dependence on these substances. The exact cause of substance abuse, however, is not known, but genes, the type of drug used, emotional distress and other mental health problems can all be factors. Children who grow up in homes where a parent abuses drugs or alcohol may be at a greater risk for developing a substance abuse problem for both genetic and environmental reasons. Individuals who may be at a greater risk for substance abuse or dependence may include those who:
- Are depressed
- Have bipolar, schizophrenic or anxiety disorders
- Have easy access to drugs
- Have low self-esteem
- Have a relative with an alcohol or drug problem
- Have problems with relationships
- Experience severe economic or emotional stress
- Live in a culture with an great social acceptance of drug use
- Have post- traumatic stress disorder
Types of Substance Abuse
Individuals may abuse substances that are legal or illegal. Abused substances commonly produce some form of intoxication that alters judgment, perception, or physical control. Substance abuse may include the abuse of drugs or substances including:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Prescription medications
- Methamphetamines
- Narcotics
- Hallucinogens
- Inhaled chemicals
Treatment of Substance Abuse
Treatment for substance abuse may vary, but the common goal is to help the individual stop abusing drugs or other substances, maintain a drug-free lifestyle, and sustain a productive family and professional life. The first step in successful treatment of substance abuse often begins when the individual admits that they have a problem and need help. Treatments may differ based on the individual and the specific substance that is being abused. Common treatment options may include:
- Behavioral therapy
- Medication
- Support groups
- Residential treatment programs
In some cases, a combination of medication and therapy is an effective form of treatment for substance abuse. A life-long commitment to sobriety can be crucial to a person’s success in achieving and maintaining a drug-free lifestyle.
Medication Management Treatment
Opioid Use
Providers at Mighty Mental Health have received specialized training and certification in treating Opioid Use Disorder. Please click below to read about the specialized treatment plans available for Opioid Disorder.
Additional Resources
Featured Services
Medication
Management
Psychiatric medications are invaluable in achieving recovery from mental illness and safe treatment of symptoms. Our practice offers comprehensive medication management delivered by board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. Our clinicians utilize a holistic approach that incorporates in depth knowledge of how pre-existing medical conditions can influence and trigger psychiatric symptoms. The decision to begin medication management is a combined effort between the Provider and the individual patient.
Therapist
Referrals
Our board certified Nurse Practitioners work with a select group of well experienced Licensed Therapists in the Las Vegas area. Depending on the patient’s symptoms and goals, the patient and the Provider will determine if therapy could offer solutions to the current situation. Therapy can include individual, group or family for adults and children. Finding the right Licensed Therapist for your individual needs is very important. The Therapy referrals available at Mighty Mental Health will ensure that every available tool is being utilized to help reach each patient’s goal.
ADHD Testing and
Treatment
Our office offers both in office and online ADHD Testing for both children and adults. Our board certified Nurse Practitioners are trained to administer the tests and discuss the results with the patients and family. Testing is a great tool for Providers to use to help determine the best treatment plan for all patients. Our office uses the state of the art software created by QbCheck to help diagnose and track our ADHD patients.
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- 2685 South Rainbow Blvd
Suite 206
Las Vegas, NV 89146
- 702-479-1600
- Fax 702-479-1993
- OFFICE HOURS
- By Appointment Only
- Mon: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Tues: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Wed: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Thurs: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Fri: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am - 3:00pm
- Sun: Closed
