Illicit Drug Use Disorder

What is an illicit drug use disorder?

An illicit drug use disorder is a condition that affects a person’s brain and behavior, causing them to rely on illegal drugs. People with illicit drug use disorder continue to use illegal substances, even if the use results in negative side-effects like getting fired from a job or losing friendships.

Over time, people with illicit drug use disorder need greater quantities of a substance to achieve the same high. This increases the risk of excessive use or an overdose. 

What are the symptoms of illicit drug use disorder?

Symptoms of an illicit drug use disorder include:

• Feeling like you need to use a drug regularly
• Having intense urges that interfere with your ability to focus or think
• Taking steps to maintain a supply of the drug
• Buying drugs, even if you can’t afford it
• Participating in risky behaviors while under the influence

If you have an illicit drug use disorder, you might also experience withdrawal symptoms like nausea, profuse sweating, or severe anxiety when you try to stop using the drug. 

What substances can cause an illicit drug use disorder?

At The Transformation Center, the team has years of experience treating illicit drug use disorders. Some of the most common addictive illegal substances include:

• Ecstasy (MDMA)
• Crack cocaine
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Ketamine
• Meth

You might also benefit from treating an illicit drug use disorder if you regularly use marijuana or synthetic marijuana products like Spice or K2.    

How is an illicit drug use disorder diagnosed?

To diagnose an illicit drug use disorder, the team at The Transformation Center conducts a review of your medical and psychiatric history and asks questions about your symptoms and lifestyle, including the type of drugs you take, how often you take them, and their effects on your personal life. 

These questions may seem invasive, but it’s important you answer them as honestly as possible because they play an important role in developing a custom care plan. There’s nothing to be ashamed of, and the information you provide to the team is completely confidential. 

How is an illicit drug use disorder treated?

Treatment for an illicit drug use disorder depends on the severity of your symptoms and the type of substances you’re addicted to. Usually, though, the team recommends a combination of in-person counseling, psychiatric medication, and healthy lifestyle changes.

Some of the treatments you might benefit from include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), a 12-step program, art therapy, music therapy, or yoga.

The team can also provide you with tips and tricks to minimize cravings and avoid situations where drug use is present.

If you have an illicit drug use disorder, schedule an appointment at The Transformation Center by calling the nearest office or booking online today.