Chemical Dependency & Substance Abuse

Addiction can significantly impact your daily life and well-being. If you or a loved one is struggling with chemical dependency or substance abuse, it's important to know that help is available. Banner Health offers a variety of health services, resources, treatments, and support options tailored to those dealing with addiction. Seeking help is the first step to recovery.

What is chemical dependency and substance abuse?

Substance abuse refers to the harmful use of substances, such as alcohol or drugs, that negatively affect a person's life—whether it's missing work or engaging in dangerous behaviors like driving under the influence.

Chemical dependency is a medical condition where a person becomes physically dependent on mood-altering substances like alcohol or drugs. Even when individuals face serious consequences due to their substance use, they may continue to use these substances. Both substance abuse and chemical dependency are classified as brain disorders, affecting how a person thinks and behaves.

Commonly abused substances

Some of the most commonly abused substances include:

• Alcohol
• Marijuana
• Prescription medications
• Cocaine
• Methamphetamines
• Hallucinogens
• Inhalants
• Opiates

Signs and symptoms of chemical dependency and substance abuse

The signs and symptoms of chemical dependency and substance abuse can vary from person to person. However, common indicators include:

• Intense cravings or a strong desire to use drugs or alcohol
• Repeated substance use despite negative effects on work, relationships or health
• Increasing the amount of substance used over time
• Inability to control substance use, even after trying to quit
• Giving up hobbies or social activities due to substance use
• Engaging in dangerous behaviors, such as driving while intoxicated
• Developing a tolerance and needing larger amounts for the same effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
• Continuing use despite physical or psychological consequences

Causes of chemical dependency and substance abuse

Chemical dependency and substance abuse are complex conditions that can stem from a variety of factors, such as:

• Genetics: Family history can increase the risk of developing addiction.
• Psychiatric issues: Conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD can contribute to substance use.
• Social and environmental factors: Peer pressure, stressful life events, or exposure to drugs or alcohol at an early age.
• Personality traits: People with certain personality types may be more prone to addictive behaviors.

Diagnosis and screening for chemical dependency

To diagnose chemical dependency or substance abuse, a health care provider will typically conduct screenings that may involve asking about the substances used, frequency of use and the impact on daily life. Physical symptoms might also be evaluated, such as:

• Red eyes
• Chronic fatigue
• Weight loss
• Abnormal blood pressure or heart rate
• Poor personal hygiene
• Anxiety, depression or trouble sleeping

Treatment options for chemical dependency and substance abuse

Banner Health offers a variety of personalized treatment options to help individuals recover from substance use disorders. Treatment may involve inpatient or outpatient care and a combination of therapies.

Banner Del E Webb Medical Center Outpatient Program

Banner Del E Webb Medical Center offers an outpatient program for adults who need professional assistance with substance abuse. This program provides group therapy using evidence-based techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT).

Adult Intensive Outpatient Chemical Dependency Program

For those who need a more structured program, Banner Health also offers an Adult Intensive Outpatient Chemical Dependency Program. This program helps patients adopt a drug- and alcohol-free lifestyle, while addressing additional mental health concerns that may affect recovery.

Banner - University Medicine Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Clinic

Located in Phoenix, AZ, the Banner - University Medicine Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Clinic specializes in outpatient care for individuals dealing with both pain management and substance use disorders. This clinic offers medication-assisted treatment and detoxification services to help individuals recover safely.

Banner Behavioral Health Hospital

For individuals requiring inpatient care, the Banner Behavioral Health Hospital in Scottsdale, AZ, provides treatment for chemical dependency in a minimally restrictive environment. With an expert team of professionals, the hospital helps patients recover and return to their daily lives as quickly as possible.

Take the first step toward recovery

Reaching out for help is the first step to healing from chemical dependency or substance abuse. At Banner Health, we offer individualized treatment options to support you or your loved one in recovery. Our compassionate staff is here to guide you toward the care that best meets your needs.