Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders include the ongoing or frequent use of alcohol, or prescription or illegal drugs. In addition, the use of these substances causes a significant impact on a person’s life physically, mentally or socially. Substance use disorders aren’t caused by or controlled by family members or friends. While there isn’t a cure, recovery is possible. Family members and friends play an important role in that process. While the symptoms of substance use disorders may be different for each person, there are a few common signs.

In some cases, alcohol, or prescription or illegal drugs, are used by a person to self-medicate in order to cope with depression, anxiety or other mental health disorders. A mental health disorder affects how a person thinks, feels and acts. When a substance use disorder and mental health disorder occur at the same time, it’s called a co-occurring disorder.

BayCare Behavioral Health provides a full range of comprehensive treatment options for all types of substance use disorders and addiction including alcohol, opiates, illicit and illegal drugs and prescription medication abuse.

Resources and treatment options include:

Since 1971, BayCare Behavioral Health has helped adults and children dealing with the effects of substance use and mental health disorders. When you or a family member needs care, you can trust BayCare Behavioral Health to be there. Our scope of services and individualized treatment programs can meet your needs at the right level of care, taking a recovery approach.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of substance use may be different depending on the substance used; however, there are some general signs and symptoms. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to a behavioral health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A few of the more common signs and symptoms of substance use include, but are not limited to:

  • Substances are used in large amounts and often over long periods of time
  • Attempts to stop or lessen use of substances fail
  • Significant time is spent on the substance use – getting it, using it or recovering after using it
  • Strong want or need to use the substance
  • Failure to handle usual responsibilities
  • Missing work or school
  • Home environment suffers including conflict with loved ones
  • Trouble understanding or relating to other people
  • Substance used in harmful or dangerous situations
  • Poor sleep, hygiene and eating habits
  • Change in appearance, personality or attitude
  • Keeping secrets or lying
  • Legal or financial problems

BayCare Behavioral Health is here to assist people struggling with addiction and substance use disorders. We offer a variety of resources to help you and your loved ones get help when you need it:

  • If you need immediate crisis assistance, call 911.
  • If you are thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, dial (800) 273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention LIfeline 24/7.
  • If you have questions related to insurance or verification of benefits for behavioral health care, call our registration center Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm at (877) 850-9613.
  • For local health and human services resources and information outside of our registration center hours, call 211 to reach Tampa Bay Cares for free, confidential help.
  • Still unsure of where to begin, let our guide help you navigate the process.
  • To schedule an appointment with a behavioral health professional, call our registration center Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm at (877) 850-9613.