By Jonathan Guy, PA-C
Anyone who has tried to quit using cigarettes, alcohol, opioids, or something else knows it can feel overwhelming or even impossible. You may be surprised to learn that about one out of every six Americans aged 12 and older has struggled with a substance use disorder in the past year, so clearly we’re talking about a lot of people. Despite the challenges, there is hope. No matter what you are struggling with, you are not alone and healing is possible.
How to know when substance use is a problem
Addiction, which is a severe form of substance use disorder, may involve legal or illegal substances from alcohol to opioids, methamphetamine, nicotine, marijuana, and more. And addiction doesn’t discriminate: it affects people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Some people are well aware they have a problem. For others, it’s less clear—especially if substances are normalized or joked about in their social circles. In my practice, I sometimes hear people casually refer to a “Lake County Coffee,” which means coffee with methamphetamine in it. Just because something is normalized doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Substance use becomes a problem when it negatively impacts your work, relationships, or daily functioning. If your substance use is putting a strain on your relationships, interfering with your ability to keep commitments, or simply making you feel you are not at your best, it’s time to consider seeking support.
Overcoming shame and stigma
It’s common for people to feel some shame when they keep doing something they want to stop. Unfortunately, the stigma tied to addiction often makes this shame even more intense. Addiction is not a personal failure. Let me say that again: addiction is NOT a personal failure. It’s a health condition with a prescribed treatment.
If you’re struggling and want to make a change, the first step is to tell someone you trust, whether that’s a family member, a close friend, or your medical provider. Problems often feel smaller when we share them.
At Federally Qualified Health Centers like MCHC, you will never be shamed or judged when you share your story and seek support. Primary care providers like me provide substance use support within regular appointments. We also have a Medically Assisted Treatment Program that combines medical care and behavioral health services with intensive case management. As part of this program, our substance use counselor, care coordinator, or peer support meet with patients in person and over the phone, walking alongside those who are struggling and helping them connect with additional support.
Today’s support options
When someone is ready to seek help for a substance use disorder, they usually don’t want to wait. Clinics like ours offer same-day or next-day appointments and can help arrange transportation if needed. Acting quickly can make a big difference. I recommend calling your primary care provider or the clinic’s call center and explaining that you want substance use support as soon as possible.
Recovery looks different for everyone. There are more options for medical recovery treatment than there once were—and with fewer side effects. For opioids, options include formulations of buprenorphine, one of which is a new extended-release injection that can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms. We also have medical treatments for alcohol use disorders that are gentler and not likely to cause vomiting.
Although there are fewer options for methamphetamine addiction, there are supportive treatments that make quitting easier. And if you’ve been relying on something for sleep, your provider can suggest less addictive alternatives. Whatever you are experiencing, being open and honest about your fears, setbacks, and goals will help you move forward.
A holistic approach helps recovery last
While medication can be an important tool in recovery, it works best when combined with behavioral health support or therapy. Mental health care can address the underlying causes that contribute to substance use, and equip you with strategies to cope with anxiety, depression, and other common stressors. Clinics like ours also help connect people with resources for housing, transportation, and healthy food.
Recovery is more likely to last when you have a network of safe, sober friends, less stress and chaos in daily life, and meaningful, structured routines. Some people continue to take medications to reduce cravings long-term, and others for a shorter period. Regardless of the path you take, healthy social networks and daily habits you’re proud of are key to lasting sobriety.
It’s never too late
Whether you’re just beginning to wonder if you need help or you’ve tried recovery before and struggled, it is never too late to try again. There are many forms of support available, from talking with someone you trust, making an appointment with your primary care provider, or enrolling in a treatment program. You are not alone, and there are people ready to walk alongside you as you recover.
Jonathan Guy, PA-C, is a primary care provider at MCHC Health Centers, a community-based and patient-directed organization that provides comprehensive primary healthcare services as well as supportive services such as education and translation that promote access to healthcare. MCHC includes Hillside Health Center and Dora Street Health Center in Ukiah, Little Lake Health Center in Willits, and Lakeview Health Center in Lakeport.
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