Understanding Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)

Symptoms

Strong cravings and difficulty controlling substance use
Increased tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect)
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
Continuing substance use despite negative consequences, such as health problems, relationship difficulties, or legal issues
Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school

Causes

Biological Factors: Genetic predisposition, brain chemistry alterations involving reward pathways
Psychological Factors: Using substances to cope with stress, trauma, emotional or mental health problems
Social and Environmental Factors: Peer influence, family behaviors, societal acceptance, easy availability

Complications

Severe physical health issues (e.g., liver disease, heart problems, respiratory illnesses)
Mental health issues (anxiety, depression, psychosis)
Increased risk of accidents and injuries
Legal and financial difficulties
Damaged relationships and social isolation

Risk factors

Education and Awareness: Community and school-based programs teaching about risks
Early Screening: Identifying at-risk individuals through screenings and brief interventions
Medication-Assisted Treatment: Medications for managing withdrawal and cravings (e.g., methadone for opioids, naltrexone for alcohol)
Psychosocial Therapies: Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, relapse prevention strategies
Support Networks: Peer-support groups (AA, NA), family involvement, ongoing counseling
Harm Reduction Strategies: Needle exchange programs, overdose prevention measures (e.g., naloxone distribution)

Prevention and Treatment

Family history of addiction or substance misuse
Early exposure to substances
Existing mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD)
Stressful or traumatic life experiences
Lack of social support, poverty, or living in high-stress environments

Consult with experienced Doctors

MGMCH is home to some of the most eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective arenas and are renowned for developing
innovative and revolutionary procedures

Dr. Manju Bhaskar

Professor & HOD

Experience16years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
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Dr. Aditya Soni

Professor

Experience13years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
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Dr. Nand Kishore Tak

Associate Professor

Experience13 years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
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Dr. Geetika Chopra

Assistant Professor

Experience7years

QualificationMBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
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Dr. Shikha Sharma

Assistant Professor

Experience5years

QualificationMBBS, Post-Graduation in Psychiatry
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Dr. Priyam Gupta

Assistant Professor

Experience2+years

QualificationMBBS, MD Psychiatry
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