Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder (or AUD) describes a pattern of uncontrollable alcohol use that interferes with your daily life, leads to preoccupation with alcohol, or causes problems with the law, your health, and your relationships. Unhealthy alcohol use is far broader, and can include any alcohol use that puts your health or safety at risk (including binge drinking).

Problem drinking is more common than you might think—in 2021, around one in every five people reported binge drinking at least once in the past month, and these rates have increased since the pandemic.

When does heavy alcohol use cross the line into alcohol use disorder? What signs and symptoms should parents, spouses, and loved ones look for when evaluating whether their loved one needs help? Below, we discuss some of the most common risk factors, signs, and symptoms of alcohol use disorder, as well as what you can do to help yourself or a loved one seek Alcohol Use treatment.


Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder can vary in severity; the more symptoms you experience, the more severe the disorder can be. Some of the symptoms of AUD include:

  • An inability to limit the amount of alcohol you drink
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut down how much you drink
  • Devoting a disproportionate amount of time drinking, recovering from drinking, thinking about alcohol, or getting alcohol
  • Experiencing strong, regular urges to drink alcohol
  • Continuing to drink alcohol even after it has begun to cause physical, work, legal, or relationship problems
  • Using alcohol in unsafe situations (like driving, swimming, or in an unfamiliar location)
  • Using more alcohol to feel the same effect
  • Noticing that alcohol affects your ability to meet your obligations at work, school, or at home
  • Withdrawing from social or work activities in order to use alcohol
  • Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when you don’t drink
  • Drinking to avoid symptoms of withdrawal

For many, alcohol use disorder is marked by a repeated cycle of alcohol intoxication and alcohol withdrawal.

When you ingest alcohol, the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream increases, resulting in alcohol intoxication. This can cause changes to your mental and physical state, including inappropriate behavior, poor judgment, slurred speech, memory problems, and poor coordination. Over time, this alcohol use can cause brain damage and increase the risk of dementia.

If your blood alcohol level is high enough (0.30 to 0.40 percent or more), it could lead to alcohol poisoning, irreversible brain damage, coma, or death.

When you stop consuming alcohol after a period of heavy consumption, you may experience alcohol withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal can begin just a few hours after alcohol use and last four to five days. These symptoms include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Hand tremors
  • Insomnia or sleeping problems
  • Restlessness
  • Hallucinations
  • Anxiety
  • Seizures

In some cases, these symptoms may be severe enough to affect your ability to function for a day or more. In fact, navigating alcohol withdrawal symptoms without the help of a medical professional can be dangerous for those who have been using alcohol for an extended time. Alcohol dependency takes a toll on the body, and while it may seem more dangerous to continue engaging in a behavior that’s causing harm, it can also be life-threatening when the alcohol level suddenly drops in the body. Chronic alcohol use requires a very carefully controlled alcohol detox process to ensure the safety of the user and avoid any life-threatening issues.


What are the Risk Factors for Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol use disorder has a variety of causes ranging from genetic to social, psychological, and environmental. Some people are able to moderate their drinking without much effort, or may abstain from alcohol entirely; others are at risk of developing problematic alcohol habits even with occasional consumption.

Some of the risk factors for alcohol use disorder include:

  • Starting to drink at an early age
  • A family history of alcohol use disorder
  • Bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems
  • A history of trauma
  • Having multiple friends or a close partner who also drinks regularly

What Health Complications Can Alcohol Use Disorder Cause?

Alcohol is classified as a depressant, because it depresses your central nervous system. The more alcohol you consume, the more it will weigh on different parts of your nervous system, causing sleepiness, delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, and slowed breathing and heart rate.

Consuming a dangerous amount of alcohol could slow your nervous system enough to keep your heart and lungs from working correctly. Combining alcohol with other central nervous system depressants, like opioids or benzodiazepines, can significantly increase the risk of health complications.

Over the long term, drinking too much alcohol can cause complications like:

  • Liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatic steatosis, and alcoholic hepatitis
  • Digestive issues, including ulcers, gastritis, and pancreatitis
  • High blood pressure
  • Increased risk of heart failure, heart attack, and stroke
  • Diabetes complications, including hypoglycemia
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Menstrual disruption
  • Involuntary rapid eye movement
  • Weakness and paralysis of the eye muscles
  • Birth defects (for alcohol use during pregnancy)
  • Bone damage, including osteoporosis and damage to the bone marrow
  • Neuropathy in the hands and feet
  • Short-term memory loss
  • Dementia
  • Weakened immune system
  • Increased risk of mouth, throat, liver, esophagus, colon, and breast cancers

The sooner you can control the alcohol use, the sooner you can work to combat these negative health effects.


Helping a Loved One Seek Alcohol Use Treatment

If you’re concerned about alcohol consumption—your own or someone else’s—it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to discuss the next steps. You can also discuss your concerns with (and get feedback from) a mental health professional or a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Al-Anon, or Alateen.

One hallmark of alcohol use disorder is denial, which often makes it a challenge to seek treatment—or to encourage another to seek treatment. However, you don’t have to walk this path alone. At Anuvia, we offer a variety of programs designed to help overcome alcohol use, including inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient treatment programs, substance abuse comprehensive outpatient treatment (SACOT), and early intervention programs for teens and young people. To learn more about the services we offer or to schedule an intake appointment, give us a call or visit our website today.

 

Sources:

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22689-blood-alcohol-content-bac#

Opioid Abuse Treatment: Understanding, Options, and Support

Opioid abuse is a public health crisis that has touched most American families in some way. Around 10 million people misuse prescription opioids every year, and in 2020, nearly three in every four overdose deaths in the U.S. involved opioids.

While these statistics are staggering, recovery is possible. Many people who once struggled with opioid use disorder are now living healthy, drug-free lives. Further, the designation of the opioid epidemic as a public health emergency means that there are more treatment options than ever before. From medications to behavioral therapy, inpatient treatment, and support groups, there are options available to fit every need.

Below, we’ll delve into the most common causes, signs, and symptoms of opioid abuse, as well as the different treatment and support options that are available.


Understanding Opioid Use Disorder

In the earliest stages of the opioid epidemic, the abuse of these drugs was heavily stigmatized. Terms like “addict” and “junkie” were used to disparage anyone who had developed a physical dependence on opioids. Instead of urging treatment, this stigma often led those struggling with addiction to hide their issues from their loved ones.

We understand that opioid use disorder is a chronic disease that can affect anyone. Celebrities, athletes, and Fortune 500 CEOs have all shared their struggles with opioid use disorder, helping de-stigmatize this medical condition. Further, class action lawsuits against the makers of Oxycontin and other opioid-containing medications have revealed some of the deceptive practices that helped these drugs gain such a foothold.


Causes of Opioid Abuse

Anyone who takes opioids is at risk of developing opioid use disorder, even when these drugs are legally prescribed after an injury or surgery. This is one factor that makes opioid use disorder so widespread. Even for physicians, it’s all but impossible to predict who may develop opioid dependence.

However, there are some common genetic, psychological, and environmental risk factors for addiction. Individuals with one or more of these risk factors may be at a higher risk of becoming addicted to opioids:

  • Poverty
  • Unemployment
  • Chronic stress
  • A personal or family history of substance abuse
  • A history of severe depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders
  • A criminal history (including DUIs)
  • Regular contact with others who use illicit drugs
  • Risk-seeking behavior

Those who take opioids in a way other than intended (such as crushing or snorting pills) may be at a higher risk of opioid use disorder.


Opioid Abuse Symptoms

It can be tough to tell when someone is in the early stages of opioid use disorder. However, there are some common signs for those who know what to look for. These fall under behavioral, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial categories.

Behavioral and psychosocial symptoms include:

  • Fabricating injuries or lying about pain to receive an opioid prescription
  • “Doctor-shopping,” or visiting different doctors to receive multiple prescriptions
  • A decline in work performance
  • Increased isolation
  • Stealing medications from others
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Paranoia

Physical and cognitive symptoms include:

  • Unexplained changes in hygiene
  • Weight loss
  • Scabs or sores that could indicate intravenous drug use
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Constricted or “pinpoint” pupils
  • Impaired judgment or problem-solving skills
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Slowed thinking

If a loved one begins showing some of these signs, it may be time for a frank conversation about their substance use and whether they’re ready to seek help.


Treatment Options for Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid Treatment Approaches

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to opioid treatment. The best treatment (or combination of treatments) will depend on various factors unique to the patient. By customizing opioid treatment plans to the individual, recovery providers can help address the contributing causes of opioid use disorder and any challenges that recovery may pose.

Evidence-based treatment approaches for opioid use disorder include medication, counseling and behavioral therapies, and residential or hospital-based treatment.

 

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT is a comprehensive recovery approach that combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies. By focusing on the whole patient – not just the physical dependence on opioids – MAT can increase the odds of successful long-term recovery.

MAT utilizes medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, naltrexone (Vivitrol), and naloxone (Narcan). Buprenorphine is available as a dissolving tablet, cheek film, extended-release injection, or 6-month implant under the skin, while methadone is available as a daily liquid.

Each of these medications binds to the opioid receptors in the brain without providing the intoxicating effect of heroin, fentanyl, and other opioids. When used in combination and under a provider’s supervision, these medications can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing your brain to heal.

A study from the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) revealed that, after detox, both a buprenorphine/naloxone combination and an extended-release naltrexone tablet had similar success rates in treating opioid use disorder. However, naltrexone requires that the patient complete the detoxification process first, so for active users, many providers choose to begin with the Suboxone/Narcan combination.

While this medication is working to heal the brain, the patient can begin to focus on the other components of MAT—including group and individual therapy, counseling, and inpatient or residential treatment.

 

Rehabilitation Programs

Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center offers several rehabilitation programs, including residential, outpatient, and short-term treatment. Each treatment option provides expansive access to therapy, counseling, and support, as these are key to a lasting recovery.

Residential Programs

As the name implies, residential programs provide intensive treatment in a residential setting and can include detox, MAT, group and individual therapy, and relapse prevention counseling.

Anuvia’s 32-bed inpatient treatment facility provides 24/7 treatment for anyone dealing with severe substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder. Individuals in residential treatment may stay from one to 28 days and will work one-on-one with a counselor to develop a customized aftercare program to help maintain sobriety even after leaving treatment.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs are designed to meet the needs of those who are dealing with severe opioid use disorder but don’t require inpatient treatment.

Substance abuse comprehensive outpatient treatment (SACOT) is similar to residential programs in that it is fully immersive and intensive, but clients can return home at the end of each day. Clients typically meet 5 days a week, which enables them to work through challenges and learn effective skills that will support treatment and long-term recovery.

Intensive outpatient treatment programs (IOP) meet three times per week for twelve weeks while continuing care level programs meet once per week for four to six weeks.

All outpatient treatment programs provide:

  • Group and individual therapy
  • 12-step meetings
  • Substance use education
  • Family education
  • Relapse prevention programming
  • A customized aftercare plan

Short-Term Programs

Short-term treatment programs are intended for those with mild to moderate opioid use disorder who could benefit from support but who don’t require residential treatment. These programs meet twice per week and allow participants to work, attend school, and maintain family and personal commitments while also working toward recovery.

Anuvia’s short-term treatment programs include:

  • Group and individual therapy
  • 12-step meetings
  • Family education
  • Family support groups
  • Relapse prevention programming
  • Aftercare

Each of these programming options can be individually tailored to your needs.

 

Detoxification Process

Some people who struggle with opioid dependence want to stop using but are concerned about withdrawal symptoms. Once someone has developed a physical dependence on opioids, suddenly stopping use can lead to symptoms like:

  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Muscle pain and restless leg syndrome
  • Fast heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Insomnia
  • Sweating
  • Restlessness
  • Anxiety
  • Tremors

Opioid detoxification, or detox, allows patients to withdraw from opioids under medical guidance and supervision. During the detox process, a medical provider will administer medications like methadone to help relieve physical symptoms of withdrawal while monitoring vital signs and assessing the patient’s comfort.

Although detox is a key component of treatment, it’s only the beginning. This process doesn’t delve into the reasons behind a patient’s opioid use or work to change habits. Starting one’s recovery at a detox facility can help ease the transition to treatment.


Support and Resources for Opioid Abuse

Finding Support

Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or would like to know how to best help a loved one struggling with opioid use, there are a variety of support options available.

  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a National Helpline for those dealing with substance use disorders. By calling 1-800-662-HELP (4537), you can be connected with local resources, as well as a listening ear.
  • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also has information about health plans and insurers that offer coverage for substance abuse treatment.

Although the key to recovery is wanting to achieve sobriety for yourself, you don’t have to do it alone. It’s important to lean on your support network during treatment so that you can focus your energy on the recovery process. By having everyone on your team working toward a common goal, you’ll be better equipped to tackle whatever challenges may come your way during the treatment process.

 

Community Programs and Initiatives

Although the HHS and SAMHSA offer several national initiatives to address opioid abuse, Charlotte has many programs to tackle substance use at the local level.

  • Charlotte’s Substance Use Prevention Coalitions work to increase local awareness of the opioid epidemic, targeting students and young people who may be at risk of opioid use.
  • The Mecklenburg County Substance Use Disorder Task Force is a coalition of volunteers representing the prevention, treatment, criminal justice, education, faith, healthcare, pharmacy, geriatrics, social services, public health, law enforcement, homeless services, and recovery communities. The SUD Task Force is committed to opioid and substance use prevention in Mecklenburg County.
  • North Carolina’s Safer Syringe Initiative focuses on harm reduction by supporting syringe exchange programs. These programs also offer naloxone access and treatment services for anyone ready to seek recovery. Queen City Harm Reduction offers these services in the Charlotte area.

In Closing

Opioid use disorder doesn’t discriminate: it affects all races, genders, ages, and income levels. And for those struggling with this disorder, it can seem all-encompassing.

But help is available, and early intervention can make recovery easier. Take the first step toward sobriety today. Contact Anuvia today or visit our website to learn more about the treatment options we provide and how we can help.

What to Know About the Signs of Clinical Depression

You may be suffering from clinical depression if you:

  • Find yourself feeling low for weeks at a time
  • Are no longer interested in the activities you once enjoyed
  • Are isolating yourself from friends and family

This condition can affect your appetite, your ability to get restful sleep, and even your ability to think clearly—all reasons it’s important to seek help as soon as you can.

In this article, we discuss the ins and outs of this mental health condition, the importance of identifying your symptoms, the types of mental health treatment available, and what you can do if you or someone you love is suffering from clinical depression.


What is Clinical Depression?

Everyone feels sad, lonely, or down in the dumps from time to time. This is sometimes referred to as “situational depression.” But what differentiates situational depression from clinical depression is twofold: the severity of the symptoms and the length of time they last.

Clinical depression is more than just sadness; it involves changes in your appetite (either loss of appetite or binge eating), changes in your sleeping patterns (including insomnia or excessive sleeping), and a loss of interest in activities you usually love. Some may find that, instead of feeling sad or depressed, they simply feel “flat” while they’re in the throes of a clinical depression episode.

One of the sad ironies of depression is that it saps your ability to seek help when you need it. Depression can also cause you to isolate yourself from those who want to help. But if you’re suffering from depression, you’re not alone—around one in every 10 Americans deals with depression at some point in their lives, and this figure has only increased since the COVID-19 pandemic.


Types of clinical depression

There are seven different types of clinical depression, each categorized by cause and symptoms.

  • Major depressive disorder involves single or separate episodes of depression, plus at least four additional depression symptoms that last for two weeks or more.
  • Persistent depressive disorder is a milder but chronic depression that lasts at least two years. Those dealing with persistent depressive disorder generally experience two or more symptoms of depression for the entire two-year period.
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is caused in part by hormones and tends to track one’s menstrual cycle. PMDD can cause angry outbursts, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, and a depressed mood. These symptoms generally subside after menstruation.
  • Substance-induced depressive disorder occurs when a depressed mood is caused by a substance the person ingests. This can include both prescription drugs and illicit drugs, as well as legal substances like alcohol.
  • Health-condition-induced depressive disorder is a type of depression that is secondary to another medical disorder, including certain thyroid conditions, diabetes, Cushing’s syndrome, or cancer.
  • Recurrent or short-duration depressive disorders are classified as “other” depressive disorders; both are similar to major depressive disorder but tend to be short-lived. Recurrent depressive disorder involves episodes of depression that last between two and thirteen days and recur on a regular basis, while short-duration depressive disorder is a nonrecurrent depressed mood that lasts between four days and two weeks.
  • Unspecified depressive disorders are broken into four subtypes, including postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, atypical depression, and melancholia (the most severe type of depression).

Every type of depression is treatable, though treatments may vary.


Signs and Symptoms of Clinical Depression

Depression is characterized by emotional, physical, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms. Some of the most common signs of depression include:

  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Increased irritability
  • Loss of interest in activities you enjoy
  • An unexplained increase or decrease in your appetite
  • Slower speech, decreased movement, and changes in your mental functioning
  • Changes in your sleeping patterns
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Low energy, sleepiness, or fatigue
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

If you’re experiencing thoughts of self-harm, reach out immediately—in the U.S., calling or texting 988 will lead you to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, where you’ll be immediately connected with someone who can talk you through what you’re experiencing.


Causes of Clinical Depression

As with many mental health conditions, researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes clinical depression. In many cases, it can be attributed to a combination of biological, environmental, and genetic factors, as well as certain co-occurring mental health conditions.

Biological factors

The most common biological causes of clinical depression involve brain chemistry—generally an imbalance of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Antidepressant medications are designed to treat these imbalances.

Other biological factors can include comorbid disorders, either mental health disorders or physical illnesses. For example, those who have social anxiety disorder or panic disorder are more likely to also suffer from clinical depression. Those who are undergoing treatment for another serious medical condition, like cancer, may be more likely to develop clinical depression.

 

Genetic factors

You’re about three times more likely to develop clinical depression if your parent or sibling also has clinical depression. Unfortunately, because societal stigmas can still discourage transparency when it comes to discussing mental health conditions, you may not even be aware that a close relative is dealing with clinical depression. If you’re comfortable discussing your condition openly, you could be helping those around you get a diagnosis more quickly.

 

Environmental factors

If you grew up in a violent, impoverished, or abusive household, you may be more likely to develop clinical depression as a teen or young adult. Other stressful life events, including divorce, the death of a loved one, or job loss, may be enough to trigger a bout of clinical depression if you’re already more vulnerable to this condition.


Diagnosing Clinical Depression

Unlike many medical conditions that rely on X-rays, CT scans, or blood panels for a diagnosis, clinical depression is a symptom-based diagnosis.

However, you don’t need to go to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor to be diagnosed with depression—your primary care provider (PCP) can begin with a diagnosis and even prescribe antidepressants to start your treatment. Your PCP may refer you to a mental health professional for further treatment and monitoring of your condition.

To be diagnosed with clinical depression, you must have at least five of the symptoms in the “Signs and Symptoms” section above, including low mood and loss of interest in activities you enjoy. These symptoms (except for suicidal ideation) must last nearly all day, every day, for at least two weeks. Your healthcare provider will likely provide you with a questionnaire and then talk through your answers with you before making a diagnosis. Your provider may also order tests to rule out other conditions, including blood panels to screen for thyroid illnesses.


Treating Clinical Depression

There are a number of different treatments for depression, with new ones being developed all the time. Successfully treating your depression may often require a combination of medication-based treatments, therapy-based treatments, and lifestyle changes.

Medication-based treatments

Medication, most commonly antidepressants, are often the front-line treatment for clinical depression. When combined with therapy, they tend to be the most effective. There are a number of different types of antidepressants, and each of these types works a bit differently. It may take some trial and error to figure out the best one for you.

Though you may notice a difference after just a week or two, it could take two to three months for your antidepressants to really begin changing your mental state. If you’re not noticing much of a difference in your symptoms after the first month, talk to your doctor to see whether it’s worth switching antidepressants or adding another one for better results.

 

Therapy-based treatments

In therapy, you’ll talk with a mental health professional like a psychologist or a psychiatrist. Your therapist can help you identify some of the root causes of your depression and help you develop healthy coping mechanisms that can keep you from spiraling. However, just like antidepressants, therapy isn’t a quick fix—it may take a few months for you to really unpack the issues that led you to therapy and begin implementing your new coping mechanisms.

 

Complementary and alternative treatments

Some people battling clinical depression find comfort in complementary or alternative treatments such as aromatherapy, reflexology, massage, or acupuncture. These therapies can help manage symptoms (including insomnia, fatigue, and low mood) and may also help manage some of the side effects of antidepressant medication.

 

Lifestyle changes and self-care

When you’re depressed, it can be hard to focus on a healthier lifestyle. You may find yourself gravitating toward comfort and convenience food or skipping trips to the gym because you simply can’t find the energy to get off the couch.

However, sticking to a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables can help give you the energy you need to tackle your day. Regular exercise—even something as simple as walking around the block—can also be a natural mood-booster. And because alcohol is a nervous system depressant, reducing your consumption or abstaining entirely can help get you into a better frame of mind.

These lifestyle changes don’t need to be overwhelming, nor do they need to happen all at once. Something as simple as swapping out a candy bar for a banana once a day can help you move toward your goals.


Finding Solutions

Clinical depression can strike without warning and sap your ability to feel joy from the activities you once loved. However, depression is treatable, and it’s important to seek help if you’re experiencing any symptoms of clinical depression. The sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you’ll begin feeling better.

If you or anyone you know is showing signs of clinical depression, contact Anuvia online or give us a call today. Our experienced, compassionate team of mental health professionals will work with you to find the best solutions for what you’re facing.


Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24481-clinical-depression-major-depressive-disorder
https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Clinical_depression_classification

Resources for College Students

Many college and university students don’t realize that there are resources to help them with substance abuse: A recent study looking at non-prescription drug abuse among college students found that only “51.4% of students were aware of resources, either on or off campus, that help with prescription drug safety.”1

Another study found that “only 4% of college students with alcohol use disorders obtained treatment,” far lower than non-student peers.2

If you are a college student who struggles with substance use, or if you wonder if you have a problem, there are resources to help you get support at the local and national levels.

The goal of this article is to offer college-age students a guide to dealing with substance use and how to take the first step toward recovery. As you continue reading, you will learn:

  1. Common substances that college students struggle with
  2. Signs that you or a friend may need help dealing with a substance use problem
  3. Treatment types available to students
  4. What to expect on the road to recovery
  5. Common threats to recovery
  6. Tips for successful recovery in college
  7. List of local and national resources for college students

If you need urgent support, you can always contact Anuvia Prevention & Recovery Center at (704) 376-7447 or online. We are a Charlotte-based non-profit treatment and recovery center offering a variety of treatment options.


Jump Ahead


When we hear “college substance use”, most of us think of alcohol. For a long time, it has been the leading substance available on campus, and it is often the most abused, too. And that remains true today:

  • 84% of undergraduate students reported using alcohol in the past year.3
  • Over 50% of these students reported engaging in heavy drinking.
  • 18% of U.S. college students suffered from clinically significant alcohol-related problems in 2000.

But statistics tell us that college students struggle with more than just alcohol abuse. They struggle with other substances too.

College graduates are more likely to have tried illicit drugs compared to adults who haven’t completed high school (51.8% vs 39.7%).

  • A study of 946 college students who were followed from freshman to junior year found that nearly half met the criteria for at least one substance use disorder during that time.”4
  • Annual use of Adderall among college students is higher (9.9%) than for age-matched individuals not enrolled in college (6.2%).
  • A study of 1,253 college students found that more than 20% were exposed to opportunities for cocaine use in the past year.
  • The percentage of college students using cannabis daily has increased, nearly doubling between 2007 and 2014.
  • Annual MDMA use among college students more than doubled from 2004 to 2016.

One study found that “college campuses are regularly characterized by a pro-drug culture in which substance use is considered the norm and a harmless rite of passage.”3

The study goes on to explain that for many college students, substances are relatively cheap and easily accessible. Combining that fact with the prevalent stigma of addiction and limited support services on-campus, it’s common for students not to know where to turn if they are dealing with problematic substance use or dependency.

It’s important to acknowledge that there is a range of substances college students are exposed to and that help is available.


Do I Have a Substance Use Disorder?

If you recognize these signs in yourself, you may have a substance use disorder. Help is available to you, which we’ll discuss later in this article. But if you need immediate support, contact Anuvia at (704) 376-7447 or online.

Physical Signs

  • A change in appearance
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Tiredness or fatigue
  • Drastic weight fluctuation

Emotional/Mental Signs

  • Sudden changes with relationships or social circles
  • Unexplainable mood swings and behavior changes
  • Signs of depression
  • Increased sensitivity or defensiveness
  • Secrecy and deceitful behavior
  • Disappearing for long periods of time

Signs of Drug Use in the Dorm

  • Consistently borrowing or asking for money
  • Disrespecting rules
  • Lying (actively or by omission)
  • Avoiding difficult conversations
  • Missing money or valuables
  • Missing prescription pills or bottles of alcohol
  • Unusual containers, wrappers, baggies, or seeds around your dorm
  • Pipes, medicine bottles, rolling papers, and other drug paraphernalia

Signs of Drug Use at School

  • Declining grades
  • Reduced attention span or ability to focus

Treatment Options & Next Steps Toward Recovery

More and more colleges and universities are investing in on-campus addiction and recovery-specific programs, like 12-step programs. This shows promise that support may be available to more students in the future.

However, if these programs are not available on your college campus, another excellent resource is your college counseling center. Almost every school in the U.S. has a counseling center staffed by trained therapists who specialize in helping college-age adults.

A counselor can help you process your feelings and connect you with local programs that can help you detox (if needed) and get ongoing treatment. All conversations are completely confidential, and if you are over the age of 18, this information cannot be shared with your legal guardians.

If you’re not comfortable talking with a counselor on campus, your college counseling center may have a list of treatment centers in the. We will list out local and national resources below that work alongside Anuvia or provide similar services as Anuvia.


Support for College Students Struggling with Substance Abuse

Anuvia Prevention & Recovery Center

Anuvia is a substance use disorder treatment center in Charlotte with a 65-year history of providing evidence-based, person-centered recovery services. We offer a range of outpatient and residential treatment options, plus mental health support.

Short-term outpatient treatment

Short-term outpatient treatment programs are ideal for clients with a history of mild to moderate substance use. Students attend short-term treatment about twice a week, where they explore recovery in a confidential group-therapy setting.

Intensive outpatient treatment

For clients dealing with more severe substance use disorders, intensive outpatient treatment offers a structured recovery program with 12-step meetings, a relapse prevention plan, and group therapy sessions.

At Anuvia, we also offer Substance Abuse Comprehensive Outpatient Treatment (SACOT). This program uses a dual disorder treatment model to support those struggling with substance use and mental health issues. It also offers a higher-intensity therapy model for those dealing with severe substance use or who have a history of relapses.

Residential treatment

This treatment type is suited for clients struggling with severe or long-term substance use and who need a higher level of care and support.

Anuvia’s residential treatment program offers around-the-clock care from licensed professionals who can help clients as they work toward stability and recovery.

Residential treatment takes place at a treatment facility and can last anywhere from one to 45 days (or even more, depending on the situation and one’s insurance plan). Each day is carefully planned to include group and individual counseling, educational sessions, and relapse prevention programming. Residential treatment also offers family therapy sessions.

Anonymous Support Groups

There are many anonymous recovery meetings available, allowing you to find the best setting for you. There are support groups that are geared toward young adults. These groups share similar characteristics:

  • They describe themselves as a fellowship of people who can share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to encourage recovery.
  • The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using substances.
  • These programs are free and have meetings all across the country.

Alcohol Anonymous (AA)

View upcoming meetings in the greater Charlotte area here.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

View upcoming meetings in the greater Charlotte area here.

Cocaine Anonymous North Carolina (CA-NC)

View upcoming meetings in the greater Charlotte area here.

Marijuana Anonymous (MA)

While there aren’t currently meetings in the Charlotte area, you can attend online classes anytime here.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

This national organization offers robust search tools to find local support near you. You can adjust your search based on the facility type, type of care, and more.

Access the treatment locator here.

SMART Recovery

This program focuses on addiction recovery and offers both online and in-person meetings. The program describes itself as one that “was created for people seeking a self-empowering way to overcome addictive problems.”

Find in-person or online meetings here.

LifeRing

Another recovery program, LifeRing offers an anonymous meeting space where people can explore recovery discussions with peers.

Find in-person or online meetings here.

Celebrate Recovery

Another recovery program, based on religious teachings with both large and small group settings.

Learn more here.


Mental Health Resources

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, “37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug users also have at least one serious mental illness.”5 Often, college kids use drugs and alcohol to cope with mental health issues.

Anuvia Mental Health Services

If you are looking for mental health support in the Charlotte area, Anuvia is an excellent resource. In addition to substance use disorders, our counselors are also trained in supporting people with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.

Appointments are offered via telehealth Monday-Thursday. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call 704-376-7447.

National & Local Resources


Threats Along the Road to Recovery

College isn’t always the most ideal setting for a student in recovery, especially at campuses that do not offer on-site recovery programs.

The same factors that can lead a person to abuse substances are still at large during a college student’s recovery. These are factors like:

  • The stress of academic performance or experiencing big life transitions
  • The onset of a mental health disorder
  • A pro-substance social culture, especially among parties and Greek systems
  • Easy access to drugs and alcohol on campus
  • A lack of access to supportive peers who are also in recovery
  • A wide-spread stigma surrounding addiction

All of these factors make recovery tricky, as a person in recovery always faces the possibility of relapse.


Tips for Successful Recovery & Relapse Prevention at College

Despite the very real threats described above can pose to a college student in recovery, there are some ways to lessen those threats.

  • Seek substance-free housing. For a list of colleges and universities with sober living housing options, visit soberliving.org/best-sober-living-colleges-in-the-usa/
  • Find or create a student-led club that hosts sober events
  • Bring your own non-alcoholic drink to parties
  • When attending parties, bring a friend who knows you’re in recovery as a support system
  • Plan your own transportation and “exit strategy” for parties so you can leave when you want
  • If you are feeling tempted to drink or use drugs, avoid going out and instead find a fun alternative activity
  • Continue your recovery journey by seeing a counselor at school or by joining a support group to talk about new challenges that are hard to deal with sober. There are support groups that are geared toward young adults

In Summary

While there are many programs aimed at substance use prevention on college campuses, there need to be more programs for students who are in recovery or who may need to seek treatment.

If you’re a local college student in the greater Charlotte area, know that you can always turn to Anuvia. We are a non-profit organization delivering high-quality substance use treatment.

We believe in making recovery services easily accessible to anyone who needs them. If you’re a college student who’s concerned about the cost of recovery programs, please know that Anuvia will never deny treatment based on your ability to pay. Our team will work with you to get you the help you need.

To learn more about Anuvia or our treatment options, call us today at (704) 376-7447.

If you feel you need detox or are interested in residential treatment, you can contact our detox and residential center directly at (704) 445-6900.

Teens and Substance Use

Drug and alcohol use rates among adolescents and young adults vary from year to year, but research shows that substance use remains a significant problem for this age group. Teens also tend to minimize the risks of substance use, putting them at greater risk for abusing drugs and alcohol.

After reading this blog, you should be able to recognize the most common signs of substance use, identify the risks your child faces, and explore the treatment options available.

If you suspect your teen has a substance use disorder, have them complete a substance use assessment. Adolescent assessments are offered on a walk-in basis (first come, first served), or can be scheduled by calling 704-376-7447.


Key Takeaways

  • Up to 2 percent of teens and 6 percent of adults suffer from alcohol use disorder or substance use disorder
  • Drug and alcohol use affects the adolescent brain in different—often permanent—ways than the adult brain
  • There are many common, recognizable signs of teen drug and alcohol use
  • Substance use disorder is treatable
  • Treatment options can be tailored to a teen’s needs
  • If you suspect your teen is using drugs or alcohol, a clinical assessment can help you decide how to proceed

Jump Ahead


What Is Adolescent Substance Use Disorder?

Adolescent substance use disorder is a mental health condition in which adolescents (children, tweens, or teenagers) use drugs or alcohol in unhealthy ways. Adolescents who abuse drugs or alcohol can be at greater risk of various types of harm, from engaging in impulsive and dangerous behaviors to risking overdose.

What are the two types of substance abuse?

Adolescent substance use falls into two categories. It’s possible that individuals suffer from one or both types of disorders:

  1. Alcohol use disorder
  2. Substance use disorder

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that presents as an impaired ability to stop or control one’s alcohol use—even after suffering social, school-related, job-related, or health consequences as a result of alcohol use.

AUD is an umbrella term encompassing everything from problematic alcohol use to dependence and alcohol abuse. Terms like “addiction” and “alcoholism” are no longer favored when describing this condition, as they don’t adequately characterize AUD’s status as a brain disorder. While AUD is treatable at all stages, the changes alcohol causes in the brain can perpetuate AUD and make individuals more vulnerable to relapse.

As of 2019, nearly 2 percent of children and teens ages 12 to 17 had an AUD.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is also a medical condition that affects a person’s ability to control the use of a legal (or illegal) drug or medicine. Though SUD can include alcohol, it is broader than AUD as it also includes the use of marijuana, nicotine, prescription medications, and illegal drugs. The term SUD has largely replaced terms like “drug addiction” in the treatment context.


Teen Drug Abuse Statistics for 2022

If your child or other loved one is struggling with substance use, you’re not alone. Many parents struggle to help their adolescent children tackle a substance use disorder.

Recent drug use statistics reported by the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS) include:

  • Drug use among 8th graders increased 61 percent between 2016 and 2020.
  • 62 percent of 12th graders have abused alcohol.
  • Around 8.3 percent of 12-to-17-year-olds in the U.S. report using drugs in the last month.
  • One in five 8th-graders have tried illicit drugs at least once.
  • 46.6 percent of teens have tried illicit drugs at least once by 12th grade.
  • One in four 8th graders have abused alcohol at least once.
  • Three in five teens have abused alcohol by 12th grade.
  • Around 3 percent of 12th graders drink alcohol daily.
  • Nearly 7 percent of 12th graders use marijuana daily.
  • 12th graders are 82.1 percent more likely to use marijuana in their lifetime than they are to smoke a cigarette
  • Teenagers aged 12 to 17-years-old are nearly twice as likely to suffer from illicit drug use disorder (IDUD) than from alcohol use disorder (AUD).

What Are the Main Drugs Teenagers Use?

The drugs available to and most commonly used by teenagers can vary from state to state and even city to city. However, there are some commonalities:

  • Alcohol is the most prevalent substance used by young adults, with 80 percent of adults ages 19 to 30 reporting using alcohol in the last 12 months.
  • Marijuana is by far the most commonly used drug in the U.S., with 11 percent of young adults reporting daily marijuana use in 2021.
  • Cigarette use continues to decline, with only 18.6 percent of Americans aged 19 to 31 using cigarettes in the last year.

What over-the-counter (OTC) drugs do teens abuse?

  • Acetaminophen
  • Dextromethorphan (Nyquil)
  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
  • Caffeine

What prescription drugs do teens abuse?

  • Amphetamines (including Adderall, Focalin, and Ritalin)
  • Benzodiazepines (including Vicodin, Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin)
  • Pain medications (opioids such as OxyContin, hydrocodone, etc.)

What illegal drugs do teens abuse?

  • Marijuana (smoking, edibles, or vaping) – while legal in many states, marijuana is illegal for teens in all states
  • LSD
  • Cocaine
  • Methamphetamine
  • Narcotics (including prescription opioids and fentanyl as well as “street drugs” like heroin)

What Are the Signs of Drug Use in Teens?

Teens who are using drugs or alcohol may think they are able to hide their actions. In most cases, however, there are often signs of drug use that parents may notice over time.

These signs can appear at home, in school, or during extracurriculars, and could be physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral. While not all of these signs are clear-cut indications of a substance use disorder, parents should be on the lookout for even subtle changes in their adolescents’ behavior and habits.

Physical Signs

  • Changes in appearance
  • Lack of hygiene
  • Sudden or unusual changes in clothing style
  • Tiredness or lethargy
  • Drastic weight loss or weight gain

Emotional/Mental Signs

  • Sudden shifts in your teen’s relationships or social circles
  • Unexplainable mood swings and changes in behavior
  • Signs of depression
  • Unusual sensitivity or defensiveness
  • Secrecy and deceitful behavior
  • Disappearing for long periods of time

Signs of Drug Use at Home

  • Loss of interest in family activities
  • Consistently borrowing or asking for money
  • Disrespecting family rules
  • Lying (actively or by omission)
  • Avoiding difficult conversations

You may also notice other signs of drug use, including:

  • Missing money or valuables
  • Missing prescription pills or bottles of alcohol
  • Unusual containers, wrappers, baggies, or seeds around your home
  • Pipes, medicine bottles, rolling papers, and other drug paraphernalia

Signs of Drug Use at School

  • Declining grades
  • Truancy (missing school)
  • Loss of interest in schoolwork
  • Defiance of authority—more frequent detentions or complaints from teachers
  • Sleeping in class
  • Reduced attention span or ability to focus

If you’ve noticed several of these changes in your adolescent concurrently, it’s possible they’re using drugs or alcohol.

Don’t be afraid to discuss these changes with your teen. If you’ve noticed they’re overly tired, distant, secretive, or depressed, bring this to their attention. If your teen is running through money or hanging out with new friends you haven’t met, ask for details.


Why Do Teens Use Drugs?

Although no two teens are alike, there are a few common reasons teens may try (or begin regularly using) drugs and alcohol. These include:

Peer pressure. Many teens are offered drugs or alcohol by a peer and may partake as a way to be accepted or to fit in. The idea of standing up to a peer or group can be overwhelming for many.

Self-medication. Teens who deal with issues such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD, may use drugs or alcohol to cope with the symptoms.

Improving performance. Teens who are under pressure to perform well in an academic, athletic, or other extracurricular activity may use drugs—especially stimulants—to meet these expectations.

Experimenting. Children, including teens, are naturally curious. Teens may seek out and consume drugs or alcohol just to see what it’s like.

Feeling older. The thought of drinking, smoking cigarettes, or using substances that are off-limits to children and teens can be new and exciting. Teens may begin using these substances as a way to feel more grown-up.

Changing societal norms. As marijuana is legalized in many states, many teens view marijuana as relatively safe and natural. Vaping or e-cigarettes are also marketed as safer alternatives to smoking.


What Are Risk Factors Associated With Adolescent Drug Use?

Many adults may remember trying alcohol and drugs in their youth; thus, sometimes it can be easy to write off teen drug or alcohol use as typical or harmless experimentation.

It is important to remember, however, that drug and alcohol use affects the adolescent brain differently than the adult brain. Teenage substance use, even if it doesn’t rise to the level of AUD or SUD, can affect that person’s mental and physical health, long-term habits, and ability to meet future goals.

How do drugs affect teenage behavior?

Every teen’s brain goes through important physiological changes as it matures and develops ways to work more effectively. Using drugs or alcohol during this critical period can harm brain development in serious, sometimes irreversible ways.

The teenage brain is also more susceptible than the adult brain to developing a substance or alcohol use disorder.

Drugs may alter your teen’s behavior by affecting one or more areas of their health, including:

Mental health

Substance use can affect adolescent mental health by:

  • Reducing the person’s ability to experience pleasure
  • Damaging neurotransmitters and synapses in the brain
  • Creating memory problems
  • Interfering with learning critical decision-making skills
  • Inhibiting the person’s development of their perceptual abilities
  • Creating long-term brain connections that cement these unhealthy habits

Physical health

Substance abuse, including alcohol use, can have the following negative physical effects:

  • Delayed puberty
  • Lower bone mineral density
  • Liver damage
  • Alcohol poisoning
  • Accidental falls, burns, or drowning
  • Drug overdose
  • Increased risk of infection or cardiac problems

Social and behavioral implications

Teens who engage in reckless behavior while under the influence of drugs can risk everything from a criminal record to a sexually transmitted disease. Some of the social and behavioral consequences of teenage substance use include:

  • Arrests
  • Criminal convictions
  • Physical assault
  • Sexual assault
  • Car accidents
  • Sexually-transmitted diseases or infections
  • Delayed or missed career opportunities
  • Damage to the person’s relationships with friends and family

Although the teen years pass quickly, many of these consequences may be permanent.


Which Teenagers Are At Greatest Risk For Substance Use?

Not all teens are at the same risk of developing a substance or alcohol use disorder. Below are a few factors that can increase an adolescent’s risk of using drugs or alcohol.

  • A family history of substance use
  • Parental substance use
  • Favorable or permissive parental attitudes toward substance or alcohol use
  • Poor parental supervision
  • Family rejection of the teen’s gender identity or sexual orientation
  • Childhood sexual or physical abuse
  • Mental health issues
  • Association with friends and classmates who use substances

While not all of these factors are within a family’s (or a teen’s) control, some are. Increasing family support, parental connection, and family engagement can help protect youth from misusing drugs and alcohol.


How Can I Help My Teen With Substance Abuse?

The steps parents can take to help their teens tackle substance use challenges will depend on the severity of their child’s use and whether or not they meet the criteria for a SUD or AUD.

One of the most important parts of talking about substance use with your teen involves tone and phrasing. Words matter and adolescents can be especially sensitive to signs of condescension, judgment, sarcasm, and criticism–especially coming from someone they love.

Some loaded terms that should be avoided are “alcoholic” and “addict.” It’s usually best to discuss issues in a calm, non-sarcastic tone, and share observations rather than making accusations.

If you suspect your teen is at risk of substance use

  • Acknowledge that talking about substance use with your teen will probably be uncomfortable, but is necessary
  • Try to find common ground to build a connection with your teen
  • Schedule the conversation for a time when you’re relaxed and unrushed
  • Speak compassionately and practice empathy
  • Calmly discuss the dangers of substance use, especially in the teen years
  • Ensure that your teen has several trusted people (including, but not limited to, parents) to confide in
  • Take steps to address your teen’s substance use risk factors that are within your control

If you suspect your teen has begun experimenting with substances

  • Talk to trusted professionals who deal with your teen regularly (like teachers, coaches, or guidance counselors) to share your concerns and ask for their observations
  • Share your observations with your child, including specific changes you’ve noticed in their appearance, behavior, or mental health
  • Describe to your teen the benefits of sobriety
  • Ask your teen questions in a calm, non-judgmental manner
  • Set boundaries (e.g. establishing a curfew or ensuring that you know where your teen is and who they’re with)

If you suspect your teen has a substance use or alcohol use disorder

  • Get a comprehensive clinical assessment to understand your child’s level of use
  • Talk to a trained counselor for tips on how to handle a tough conversation
  • Remind yourself and your child that SUD and AUD are brain disorders that generally require treatment to overcome
  • Talk to a counselor (in combination with a substance use clinical assessment) to help your teen decide which treatment type is best
  • Set realistic goals for substance use treatment
  • Discuss expectations for the future

Some treatment options that are available at Anuvia include:

  • Detox, which helps teens withdraw from substances safely and under medical supervision
  • Short-term programs, which allow teens to attend therapy, group sessions, and other support programs while still living at home and attending school
  • Intensive outpatient treatment, which includes 12-step meetings, group, and individual therapy, and other approaches designed to provide teens with a broad array of resources without moving from their home
  • Inpatient treatment, where teens live at a support facility that’s open 24/7/365

What are the benefits of treating adolescent substance use in an inpatient facility?

There are several benefits provided by residential drug or alcohol treatment programs:

  • Fewer outside distractions, as teens are removed from the environment that led to their substance use
  • Residential treatment makes recovery the top priority
  • Direct and regular access to mental health professionals and social workers
  • Access to prescription medications that teens need to help them through recovery
  • The ability to manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision

Though not all teens will need each of these benefits, the breadth of advantages to residential treatment simply can’t be replicated in an outpatient environment.

Is drug use a leading factor in teen depression?

Yes. Adolescents who have depression disorder have higher rates of substance use. And unfortunately, the use of many substances—including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids—can affect brain chemistry in a way that exacerbates depression.

How many teens die from drug and alcohol abuse each year?

Accidental drug overdoses among teens rose dramatically during the COVID pandemic. In 2019, the number of 14-to-18-year-olds who died of a drug overdose increased from 492 to 954 (or 4.57 per 100,000 teens), and then rose to 1,146 deaths (5.49 per 100,000) in early 2021.

Can you test for teen drug use at home?

Yes, although home drug tests may not always be the most accurate or the best way to assess teen substance use. Unlike a clinical substance use assessment, a drug test won’t tell you things like the best type of treatment for your teen, and testing your teen may lead to distrust and resentment.

Additionally, home drug testing may not detect all illicit drugs and is unlikely to detect alcohol, false negatives or positives are possible, and further analysis may take weeks. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) opposes the use of involuntary drug tests on children and teens.


Next Steps

If you’re concerned that your teen is dealing with a substance or alcohol use disorder, you’ll want to act quickly.

First, complete a substance use assessment. This is a tool to help counselors understand how alcohol or drugs may have impacted you or your loved one. Adolescent assessments are offered on a walk-in basis (first come, first served), or adolescent assessment appointments may be scheduled by calling 704-376-7447.

This assessment will consider personal circumstances, including:

  • Your teen’s physical and mental health
  • Family relationships
  • The type and amount of substances used
  • Your teen’s work and/or school history
  • Your teen’s age and gender
  • Your family’s culture

Through the evaluation of each of these factors, an assessment can help determine what programming, if any, will best meet your teen’s needs.

Next, talk to a counselor about your teen’s treatment options. There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment option, which is why Anuvia offers adolescent treatment that focuses on each teen’s challenges and personal goals.

Charlotte has increase in overdoses, drinking during COVID

Watch your ‘wine o’clock.’ Charlotte has increased in overdoses, drinking during COVID

by Amanda Zhou, Charlotte Observer, April 22, 2020

Drug overdoses have increased in Charlotte, according to police, and addiction specialists say they’re concerned people are drinking too much alcohol and resorting to drugs while stuck at home.

Since March 26 — when Mecklenburg County began its stay-at-home order — CMPD has responded to 100 emergency calls about drug overdoses. That’s a 24% increase or around 20 additional calls compared to a similar time period last year, said CMPD spokesman Rob Tufano.

Out of the 100 calls, ten people died, he said.

Director of prevention and intervention at Anuviaa substance abuse treatment center, Cindy Murphy said that resources and help is available. Prior to the pandemic, there had been a downward trend in overdoses, she said.

Additionally, many are turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism, which could turn into addictions for some, she said.

“I’m sure you’ve seen all the memes,” Murphy said. “‘It’s two o’clock somewhere. It’s wine o’clock somewhere.’”

The concern over substance abuse triggered by the coronavirus pandemic has been shared by other experts.

Coming out of the pandemic, addiction psychiatrist with Atrium Health William Wright said last week he expects new patients struggling with substance abuse as there is increased financial, medical and general stress.

Many of his patients are struggling with isolating, he said.

“We all are social beings …,” he said. “We need to be with other folks. We are not actually mean to live on an island.”

Wright is still seeing patients — both new and returning — remotely either over video conference or phone, he said. But there are other logistical things he’s still figuring out like how patients should take urine drug tests, a procedure the requires leaving a home.

Nevertheless, he emphasized that there is still “hope and treatment for those who need it … and did not realize the slippery slope of substance use as a coping strategy.”

According to Tufano, there has not been a spike in suicides and with bars and restaurants closed, there has not been any noticeable changes in DWI or drinking and driving charges.

However, that hasn’t stopped people from stocking up on alcohol at home. As of April 3, ABC stores have seen a 30% increase in sales compared a year ago, according to the Mecklenburg County ABC Commission.

NEED HELP?

Look up services close to your zip code on Cardinal Innovations Healthcare’s website, localresources.cardinalinnovations.org.

The link provides information about substance abuse treatment help, medical services, assistance with housing, food and transportation, and more.

Those who are looking for Alcoholics Anonymous anonymous meetings can find ones in the Charlotte area on the Metrolina Intergroup website www.charlotteaa.org. The site includes links to a variety of meetings including in-person, telephone and online.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.

Anuvia in Charlotte can be reached at 704-376-7447.

Thank you Mecklenburg County

We are grateful to Mecklenburg County Public Health for the support we received through a 2022 Grow Grant. The funding enabled us to offer classes in yoga and meditative journaling to individuals who were in our residential treatment program from April – June 2022.   

2018 Mecklenburg County Opioid Summit

The 2018 Mecklenburg County Opioid Summit is March 22, 2018 from 8 am to 4pm. For more information about the event, visit http://www.hazelden.org/web/public/event.view?eventId=6478304.

Client and Family Advisory Committee Member Recruitment

The Client and Family Advisory Committee is recruiting new members! If you’re interested, please contact Edith Moore at 704.445.6868 or edith.moore@anuvia.org.


Client and Family Advisory Committee (CFAC)

Purpose: The Client and Family Advisory Committee will promote quality services for Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center clients and family members by supporting positive changes, services for all clients, and promoting client and family empowerment.

Mission Statement: The Client and Family Advisory Committee represents and advocates for all client and families within the scope of Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center. Our mission is to ensure that our clients and family members receive the highest quality services.

Objectives of the CFAC are:

  • Participate in the needs assessment and community planning – making recommendations about gaps in services, eligibility for services, service array, and the development of additional services.
  • Ensure provided services are grounded in established and emerging “Best Practices” standards.
  • Participate in quality improvement activities, including tracking and commenting on outcome measures and performances indicators.
  • Ensure client and family participation among all levels of services delivery.
  • Promote activities related to client and family empowerment.
  • Inform and educate other clients, family members, and the community.

Membership and Terms:

Membership applications will be reviewed by the CFAC committee and liaison to determine eligibility and representative status (disability, race, and ethnicity). Recovering applicants must have a minimum of six months of sobriety for membership.

Those interested in membership should have a desire to want to work towards improving the lives of others.