Using substances like alcohol, tobacco, or drugs can change how a person feels and thinks.
Some people use these substances only occasionally, like having a drink at a party, while others may use them more often.
Sometimes using these substances does not cause big problems. But sometimes it can.
At Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care, we help individuals recognize when substance use may be affecting their overall behavioral health and provide guidance for early intervention.
Below, we will help you know when substance use becomes a behavioral health concern.
Understanding Substance Use
Substance use refers to the consumption of anything that influences your body or mind. This includes:
- Alcohol
- Nicotine
- Prescription medications
- Illegal drugs
Using substances occasionally is common and doesn’t always cause problems. For example, someone can take pain medication or enjoy a glass of wine. This won’t disrupt their daily life.
Use of substances is an issue when it begins to influence your day-to-day duties, relationships or even your moods.
Signs That Substance Use May Be a Behavioral Health Concern
Behavioral health is about how your emotions, thoughts and actions affect your life. Substance use can affect all of these areas. Here are some signs to watch for:
Changes in Mood or Emotions
It may be a red flag if a person begins to experience more sadness, anger, and anxiety and the emotions arise because of consuming substances. The use of substances may complicate the management of emotions.
Home, School, or Work Problems
Lack of duty, trouble, and disagreement with other individuals may be indicators that substance use is impacting everyday life.
Physical Health Issues
Drugs are going to affect your body. Sudden gain or loss of weight, chronic fatigue, sleeping problems, or unexplained aches and soreness could be signs that alcohol and drugs are harming you.
Difficulty Controlling Use
If a person intends to reduce but persists in use, or experiences a powerful desire to use, it is a good indication that substance use is turning into a behavioral health issue.
Loss of Interest in Things You Enjoy
People who used to engage in hobbies, spend time with family, or do any other activities might cease doing so once substance use is dominant.
Social Withdrawal
Leaving friends, family, and communication and replacing them with the use of substances can also be an indicator that they are shaping the behaviors and mood of the user.
Risky Behavior
Drug use may distort clarity. This may cause bad habits, such as impaired driving or combining narcotics with other substances.
If you notice any of these signs, Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care can provide confidential assessments and guidance to help you take the first step toward recovery.
Why Substance Use Impacts Behavioral Health
Substance use may eventually change the way the brain functions. This may complicate the ability to control emotions, stress coping, and healthy decision-making.
There can be anxiety, depression and other mental health issues as a consequence.
When substance use starts to interfere with everyday duties, interpersonal relationships, or emotional stability, it becomes a behavioral health concern.
When to Seek Help
It’s important to reach out if you notice:
- Inability to control substance use
- Increasing emotional distress, anxiety, or depression
- Problems at work, school, or home
- Risky behaviors that could harm yourself or others
- Withdrawal from hobbies, friends, or family
Professional support can guide. Behavioral health providers at Grace Health Clinic and Urgent Care provide care to these issues in a caring, evidence-based and customized manner. We realize that every individual has a different situation and strive to offer support that suits them.
How Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care Can Help
Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care supports people with mental and emotional health requirements. Our team listens with care. We offer different kinds of help.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
A specialist meets you and learns about your life. This helps find the right plan.
Therapy
A therapist talks with you in private. They teach ways to cope. They help you find new, healthy habits.
Medication Support
For some people, medicine helps. Our providers can explain if medicine is right for you.
Support for Families
Families can learn how to help and stay safe together.
We help with many issues linked to substance use. These include anxiety, depression and trouble sleeping. Dr. Abisola Onashile leads care that is kind and based on what works.
Final Words
Substance use can become a behavioral health issue if it harms daily life, physical health, or mental well-being. Seeking help is perfectly acceptable.
Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care offers empathetic and careful behavioral health support. Our team pays attention, works together in strategizing and supports individuals and families.
Call 360-200-1696 or visit gracehealthclinicuc.com to schedule an appointment and start your journey today.
FAQs
Is all substance use a behavioral health problem?
Substance use becomes a problem once it negatively impacts the day-to-day life, feelings, thoughts, or relationships, as well as leads to stress, illness, or unprotected conduct. Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care can help determine if use has become a concern.
Can families be part of the treatment?
Yes. Family support can be very helpful. At Grace Health Clinic & Urgent Care, our team teaches families how to communicate effectively and help their loved ones safely.