What is substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Substance use can include drugs (including prescription medications), alcohol, and tobacco.

People misuse substances for a variety of reasons. In most cases, the cycle begins with casual substance use but quickly progresses to dependence. Professional support and lifestyle changes can break this cycle.

If you are concerned about substance use disorder or think you may have become dependent, talk to a health care provider.

Symptoms of substance use disorder include:

  • Feeling that you need the substance to be at your best
  • Increasing the frequency of substance use or taking it in increasingly larger amounts
  • Dedicating a lot of time, energy, or money to obtain the substance
  • Neglecting relationships with family and loved ones
  • Skipping activities you used to enjoy
  • Needing significant time to recover from using the substance
  • Having withdrawal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, sweating, body aches) when you try to stop using the substance

IBX members can access care quickly

If you or a loved one is looking for additional support or care for substance use disorder, IBX has a robust network of in-person and virtual behavioral health care providers so you can find one that fits your needs and preferences. Our Behavioral Health Care Navigation team can provide personalized guidance to make getting help easier. In addition, they can schedule an appointment for you with an in-network provider — usually within seven days.

For a listing of these providers, visit our Addiction support, resources, and providers page.

To reach the Behavioral Health Care Navigation team, call 1-800-688-1911.

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