Drug and alcohol addiction — also known as substance use disorder (SUD) — is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive use of substances despite negative consequences. Research shows that more than 20 million people in the United States are living with an SUD in any given year, highlighting how widespread this condition is.[1] 

Addiction develops gradually, often beginning with recreational or prescribed use that escalates over time. Substances alter the brain’s reward system, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to control their impulses or stop using — even when faced with serious health, social, or legal problems. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on drugs or alcohol to function, which creates tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. 

Multiple factors increase vulnerability to developing an SUD, including genetics, early exposure, co-occurring mental health conditions, environmental influences, and a history of trauma or chronic stress. Because addiction is progressive and impacts both physical and mental health, recognizing it as a medical condition — and treating it as such — is essential for recovery. 

Reference: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023, November 13). National survey on drug use and health. 
 

The symptoms of drug and alcohol addiction can vary depending on the substance being used, how long it has been used, and the individual’s overall health. For example, someone struggling with alcohol use disorder may experience blackouts, tremors, or irritability when not drinking, while someone using opioids may face drowsiness, constricted pupils, and withdrawal symptoms between doses. 

Common signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol addiction may include: 

• Cravings – Strong urges or preoccupation with obtaining and using substances
• Tolerance – Needing larger amounts of drugs or alcohol to feel the same effects
• Withdrawal symptoms – Experiencing nausea, sweating, shaking, anxiety, or insomnia when not using
• Loss of control – Difficulty cutting back or stopping substance use despite repeated attempts
• Neglecting responsibilities – Declining performance at work, school, or home
• Risky behavior – Driving under the influence or engaging in unsafe activities while impaired
• Social withdrawal – Pulling away from friends, family, or once-enjoyed activities
• Physical changes – Noticeable weight loss, changes in appearance, or poor hygiene 
• Relationship strain – Increased conflict or breakdown of personal and professional relationships

Because these symptoms often worsen over time, early recognition and professional treatment are essential to stop the cycle of addiction and prevent further harm. 

Medical detox is a clinically supervised process that safely manages withdrawal when stopping alcohol or drugs. It’s recommended when abrupt cessation could trigger moderate to severe withdrawal, which may be uncomfortable and, for some substances, dangerous. Alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines are the most common substances requiring supervision because withdrawal can involve seizures, severe anxiety, hallucinations, unstable vital signs, and intense cravings.

A professional assessment — including substance use history, co-occurring conditions, and current medications — determines whether detox is necessary and how it should be tailored. At STR, individuals receive 24/7 monitoring, support from licensed clinicians, and, when appropriate, evidence-based medications to reduce symptoms, ensure safety, and prepare for the next step in treatment.

After medical detox, many clients transition directly into residential treatment, where they can focus on recovery in a structured, supportive setting. Residential programs deliver daily individual and group therapy, psychiatry, education, and skills practice to address the root causes of substance use and any co-occurring mental health conditions.

As stability improves, we create an individualized step-down plan — often to partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and/or outpatient — that provides ongoing therapy, medication management, and relapse prevention while clients reintegrate into work, school, and family life. This comprehensive continuum of care, reinforced by coordinated aftercare and alum support, helps maintain momentum and promotes long-term recovery.