What is substance use disorder?
Substance use disorder (SUD) - also known as addiction - happens when your body and mind become dependent on a substance to function. This can happen with substances such as alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis and tobacco. Many people do not believe they will be become addicted to the substances they use. But substance misuse can quickly lead to addiction. Symptoms may include:
- Blackouts or memory loss
- Mood swings or frequent arguments with loved ones
- Continual use of the substance to deal with problems, relax or feel better
- Nausea, vomiting and headaches
- Lack of energy and motivation
- Spending money excessively
- Behavior changes or poor hygiene/grooming
- Continuing to use the substance despite negative effects on health, relationships, job or finances
How can I access treatment?
If you or a loved one is struggling with SUD, there are many ways to get treatment through MaineHealth:
MaineHealth provides integrated behavioral health services onsite at many of our primary care practices in Maine and New Hampshire. If you or someone you love is struggling with SUD, your primary care provider can connect you with an onsite treatment provider or nearby community treatment location.
Maine Behavioral Healthcare is proud to be part of the MaineHealth system-wide strategy for addressing SUD in the communities we serve. Through our regional “hub and spoke” treatment model we provide care at many convenient locations.
Learn more about SUD treatment through Maine Behavioral Health Care.
In case of a life-threatening emergency or drug overdose, call 911. Learn more about crisis response services.
Our Comprehensive Addiction Medicine practices provide outpatient substance use treatment in a safe, supportive, confidential and easily-accessible environment designed to support your recovery and health. Service locations include:
Our Portland practice includes a multidisciplinary team with two physicians board-certified in addiction medicine and family medicine–working collaboratively with a compassionate team of ancillary professionals to meet the comprehensive needs of SUD patients. This practice is located at 576 St. John Street Portland, ME 04102. Walk-in hours are available. Please call 207-661-0700 for more information.
Here to support you during every step of your recovery journey
We treat all substance use disorders including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis and tobacco. Our team will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Services include:
- Addiction medicine physician consultation
- Group and individual behavioral health therapy
- Case management
- Medication management for substance use including long-acting injections
- Alcohol withdrawal management for qualifying patients
- Screening for hepatitis, HIV and sexually transmitted infections
- Hepatitis C treatment
- Some primary and preventive care services
- Peer support
- Harm reduction services
Smoking doesn't just hurt the tobacco user. Secondhand smoke is a big problem for loved ones, too.
