January 2025 marks the inaugural Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, a critical initiative aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering support for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD). Spectrum Health Systems is proud to participate in this national effort to shine a light on the possibilities of recovery and the importance of treatment.
What is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a complex, treatable mental health condition that disrupts a person’s ability to control their use of substances, including legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications. It affects the brain’s reward system, decision-making, and behavior, often leading to significant personal, social, and health-related challenges. While SUD can vary in severity, its most extreme form is addiction, characterized by a compulsive need to use substances despite harmful consequences.
Understanding the Connection Between SUD and Mental Health
SUD doesn’t occur in isolation. Many individuals with SUD also experience co-occurring mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression. This dual diagnosis can complicate treatment and recovery, but addressing both conditions simultaneously leads to better outcomes.
It’s a medical condition influenced by genetics, environment, and personal experiences. Stress, trauma, and family history are common contributing factors, as are societal pressures and the availability of substances. The good news is that SUD is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right combination of medical care, behavioral therapies, and support.
The Impact of Stigma
Stigma continues to remain a hurdle for those seeking treatment. Misconceptions about addiction being a moral issue rather than a medically diagnosable condition prevent many from reaching out for help. Additionally, public policies and societal attitudes often reinforce this stigma, leaving SUD under-treated and underfunded.
The stigma of addiction isn’t just a societal issue — it’s personal. For those living with SUD, shame can be overwhelming, deterring them from taking the first step toward recovery. Yet, it’s vital to recognize that with proper treatment, the negative behaviors associated with addiction can diminish, allowing individuals to rebuild their lives.
Reducing stigma starts with understanding and compassion. Here’s how you can help:
- Use person-first language. Replace stigmatizing terms like “addict” with phrases like “person with a substance use disorder.”
- Educate yourself and others. Learning about SUD as a chronic, treatable condition can change perceptions.
- Support policy changes. Advocate for policies that treat addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one.
Treatment for a Brighter Future
This January, join Spectrum Health and organizations nationwide to observe Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month. Let’s work together to create a future where stigma no longer stands in the way of treatment and recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse, don’t wait — reach out for help. Spectrum Health offers comprehensive, compassionate care to support individuals and families on the path to recovery.
Recovery is possible, and it starts with treatment. Let’s take this month to honor the courage it takes to seek help and commit to breaking down the barriers that hold too many back. Together, we can light the way to hope and healing.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction or a substance use disorder, call Spectrum Health Systems today at 1-877-MyRehab.
