Understanding Substance Use Disorder
Substance Use Disorder is a chronic medical condition—not a weakness or a choice – and requires treatment. Learning how opioid addiction and substance use disorder affect the brain and body is the first step toward recovery for you or someone you love.
How the brain changes with addiction
Addiction isn’t about willpower—it’s about real changes in the brain that make it harder to stop using without help. All addictive substances affect the brain’s reward system — the part that helps us feel pleasure and motivation. These changes affect the biology of how the brain uses energy, how its cells respond and how strongly someone reacts to stress or things in their environment.
In simple terms, addiction can “rewire” the brain, which is why recovery takes time. With the right treatment and support, the brain can heal and regain balance.
How do opioids work in the brain?
Opioids attach to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and causing the release of dopamine. The result is feelings of relief and sometimes a powerful feeling of well-being, also called ‘euphoria.’
Over time, repeated use can change the way the brain controls reward, motivation and decision-making. These changes explain why:
- Cravings can be overwhelming
- Stopping opioids abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms
- Recovery often requires more than willpower alone
What is Opioid Addiction?
Opioid addiction, also called opioid use disorder (OUD), is when a person feels unable to stop using opioids—even when use causes harm to their health, relationships or daily life.
It can begin with prescription pain medicines such as oxycodone, morphine, or hydrocodone, or with illicit opioids like heroin or fentanyl.
Common signs of OUD include:
- Withdrawal symptoms if use is stopped suddenly
- Strong cravings or urges to use opioids
- Using more than intended or for longer than prescribed
- Needing higher doses to feel the same effects (also known as tolerance)
How Treatment Works for OUD
Effective treatment brings together medical care, behavioral therapy and recovery resources in a flexible plan that adapts to your needs. At BHG, your treatment is designed to meet you where you are and evolve as you do.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
FDA-approved medications that reduce cravings and withdrawal so you can focus on rebuilding your life.
Counseling and Behavioral Therapies
Individual and group sessions that build coping skills, support mental health and help prevent relapse.
Recovery Support Services
Case management, peer support and family engagement that keep you connected and supported through every step of recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Substance Use Disorder
What’s the difference between OUD, SUD and addiction?
These terms are related but not identical.
- Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is the medical term for difficulty controlling the use of alcohol or drugs despite harmful consequences.
- Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a type of SUD that specifically involves opioids, such as prescription pain medications, heroin or fentanyl.
- Addiction is a commonly used, everyday term for compulsive substance use.
All describe a condition involving cravings, trouble stopping, withdrawal symptoms and continued use despite negative effects.
At BHG, we use both clinical and everyday language to be medically accurate while making sure people clearly understand the conditions we treat.
What are the signs of opioid addiction?
Common signs include intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, using opioids more often or in larger amounts than intended and difficulty stopping despite negative consequences
How do medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) work?
Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are FDA-approved medications such as methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone. While each has its own unique effect, all of them act on the same receptor in the brain as opioids do. Each medication has been proven to reduce the use of illicit opioids, reduce opioid cravings and stabilize brain chemistry so patients can focus on recovery.
When combined with counseling and ongoing support as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), MOUD is the most effective approach for treating opioid use disorder.
Is opioid addiction treatable?
Yes. Opioid addiction is a chronic but treatable medical condition. With the right combination of medications, counseling and support, lasting recovery is possible.
What’s the difference between inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment?
Inpatient programs provide 24-hour care in a structured environment for a limited time period, while ongoing outpatient treatment allows patients to live at home and continue daily responsibilities. The right option depends on factors like substance use history, home environment, insurance coverage and support system. For patients who are in residential or inpatient settings, they often transition to outpatient treatment settings for ongoing care.
How long will I need to stay in outpatient treatment?
The length of outpatient treatment varies based on each patient’s individual needs and goals. Many people benefit from long-term outpatient care, since substance use disorder is a chronic medical condition.
At BHG, your care team works with you to create a personalized recovery plan. This may include treatment lasting weeks, months or ongoing support to maintain stability over time.