ABOUT ADDICTION

Contrary to common belief, addiction is an illness, not a choice. According to the American Psychiatric Association, it is “a complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence. People with addiction (severe substance use disorder) have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s), such as alcohol or drugs, to the point that it takes over their life. They keep using alcohol or a drug even when they know it will cause problems.”

THE STIGMA
SURROUNDING
ADDICTION

Texas Health and Human Services explains what stigma is, and how to navigate it:

TEXAS DRUG USE STATISTICS

The following statistics were shared by  Texas Health And Human Services Agency (THHSA) Action Plan to Address Substance Use for 2020-2022, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and Jane Carlisle Maxwell, Ph.D. State of Texas Drug Use Patterns and Trends, 2019. Addiction Research Institute

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), recovery is “a process of change through which people improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. There are four major dimensions that support recovery:

Health

Overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) or symptoms and making informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being.

Home

Having a stable and safe place to live.

Purpose

Conducting meaningful daily activities and having the independence, income, and resources to participate in society.

Community

Having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.”

It can be overwhelming to sift through the different kinds of treatment for substance use disorders. This simple, non-comprehensive guide is meant to serve as an overview, which can make the options less intimidating.

RECOMMENDED READING LIST

Upon discovering substance misuse, it might be tough to know where to begin the path toward healing. Here are some recommended reading links, which we’ve curated to help you.

RESOURCE LIST