Substance use disorders encompass a range of behavioral and psychological challenges affecting millions of Americans, with virtual therapy through licensed mental health professionals providing convenient, confidential support for recovery through evidence-based therapeutic interventions and counseling techniques.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with substances, you're not alone - and help is closer than you think. Telehealth support for substance use disorders offers a private, accessible way to connect with licensed therapists who understand your challenges and can guide you toward recovery, all from the security of your own home.
Understanding Different Types of Substance Use Issues and Finding Support Through Telehealth
Substance use disorder is a term that describes the excessive and chronic use of an addictive or mind-altering substance, such as alcohol, marijuana, or cocaine, among many others. These substances often lead to impaired judgment, loss of physical and emotional control, altered thinking and perceptions, and in many cases, addiction.
When an addiction becomes severe, the consequences can be life-threatening, requiring professional treatment to safely navigate withdrawal symptoms and begin the recovery process.
The terminology around substance use has evolved over time. Mental health professionals now prefer “substance use” instead of “abuse,” as this terminology encompasses more types of drug-related behaviors and acknowledges that not all drug consumption follows harmful or addictive patterns.
Over the years, clinicians have recognized that problematic substance use can involve not only illegal drugs but also legal substances such as cannabis (in states where legal), prescription medications, alcohol, and tobacco.
If you’re struggling with substance misuse, seeking help is crucial. ReachLink’s telehealth platform offers convenient, private access to licensed mental health professionals who specialize in substance use disorders. Our virtual therapy sessions can provide the support you need from the comfort of your home.
The scope of substance misuse: Current statistics
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS):
- Approximately 50% of people over age 12 have used an illegal substance at least one time.
- Since 2000, nearly one million people have died from a substance overdose.
- Opioids are generally responsible for seven out of 10 substance overdose deaths.
- There were an estimated 42,700 fentanyl deaths in 2020.
- Over 26% of all arrests in the U.S. are typically for substance-related crimes.
These statistics highlight that substance misuse represents a significant public health challenge in our society. Let’s examine the different types of substance use disorders and how ReachLink’s telehealth services can provide effective support.
Common substances and their effects on mental and physical health
Substance use can have severe repercussions on both physical and mental health over the long term. The impact extends beyond physical symptoms, often exacerbating mental health conditions and impairing cognitive functioning. Almost any substance (legal or illegal) can be misused when used recklessly. These substances include:
Cocaine
This stimulant, also known as coke, has limited medical applications but is primarily used recreationally through snorting, smoking, or injection. Effects appear almost immediately and can last up to 90 minutes, including loss of touch with reality and extreme euphoria. Cocaine is highly addictive and particularly dangerous when mixed with other substances. Long-term misuse can lead to hallucinations, paranoia, cardiovascular problems, and potentially death.
Fentanyl
A relatively recent addition to the U.S. drug landscape, fentanyl is an extremely potent and addictive opioid often mixed into other street drugs without users’ knowledge. It typically suppresses the respiratory system, which can quickly lead to fatal outcomes without immediate administration of naloxone. While fentanyl has legitimate medical uses for pain management, its recreational use has become a national crisis.
As DEA Administrator Anne Milgram stated, “Fentanyl is the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered. Fentanyl is everywhere. From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison. We must take every opportunity to spread the word to prevent fentanyl-related overdose death and poisonings from claiming scores of American lives every day.”
Crack
A processed form of cocaine that can be smoked, crack is typically less expensive and therefore more accessible than many other substances. Its affordability contributes to widespread availability and misuse. Crack is extremely addictive and associated with numerous health complications.
Alcohol
Derived from fermented fruits and grains, alcohol reduces anxiety and creates feelings of relaxation while impairing judgment. Despite its legal status and social acceptance, alcohol misuse can lead to alcoholism and significant health problems. Individuals who misuse alcohol typically have higher suicide rates and demonstrate increased tendencies toward violent and reckless behavior. Alcohol misuse ranks among the leading causes of preventable death globally.
Heroin
This injectable opioid, sometimes called “smack,” creates tolerance with continued use, potentially leading users to administer increasingly larger doses that can result in overdose. Heroin use appears to be increasing, with approximately 2.1 million Americans misusing opioids like heroin annually.
LSD
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) produces psychological, physical, and sensory effects including hallucinations, detachment from reality, and dissociation between mind and body. These effects typically last 6-14 hours. While not physically addictive, LSD is potent and can trigger panic attacks, psychosis, neurological damage, and physical harm. It can be taken orally or injected.