Effects of Substance Use Disorders

Effects of an alcohol or drug problem vary from mild to moderate to severe to fatal. As with any mild problem, there is a risk that it can worsen over time and lead to addiction. The effects of an SUD on the user or on the family depend on a combination of factors, including the amount, frequency, and methods of substance use; the presence of a co-occurring medical or psychiatric disorder; the user’s behavior and functioning; exposure to trauma; quality of relationships and social support; positive life experiences; access to treatment and recovery and willingness to stick with it; and motivation for change. Examples of the effects that SUDs can have in various areas of functioning are given.