Substance Use Disorder (SUD) affects individuals and families across all ages, backgrounds, and communities. Substance Abuse Disorder Treatment Month is an opportunity to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and remind those who are struggling that effective, evidence-based treatment is available—and recovery is possible. For that reason, it is called substance use disorder instead of addiction.
Substance use disorder often develops gradually, making it difficult to recognize in yourself or a loved one. Clinicians typically look for patterns rather than isolated behaviors. Common signs and symptoms include persistent cravings, loss of control over use, continued use despite negative consequences to work, health, or relationships, and repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or quit.
SUD is a chronic, treatable medical disease that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, memory, emotional regulation, and self-control systems.
“Research shows that approximately 40–60% of a person’s risk for substance use disorder is hereditary,” explained Dr. Safia Mohiuddin with Coastal Family Health Center. “Like other chronic diseases such as hypertension or diabetes, SUD often requires ongoing management and support. Seeking treatment early can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.”
Treatment for SUD is most effective when it is individualized and comprehensive. Options may include counseling, medication assisted treatment, and support groups. Recovery is not linear, and relapse does not mean failure—it often signals a need for treatment adjustment.
Coastal Family Health Center (CFHC) takes a whole-person approach to treating alcohol and drug use disorders and services include medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use, in-house therapy referrals, and guidance on engaging with community support groups and meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
CFHC offers evidence-based medications including buprenorphine (Suboxone or Subutex) and naltrexone, which help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms, allowing patients to focus on recovery, stability, and long-term health.
Dr. Mohiuddin adds, “It’s important to remember that SUD is not a failure of character—it is a medical condition that deserves the same compassion, evidence-based care, and long-term support as any other chronic illness.”
Treatment is completely confidential and available at Coastal Family Health Center clinics in Gulfport, Lucedale, Moss Point, Pass Christian, and Vancleave.
At Coastal, we do not just provide treatment—we walk with you through every step of your recovery journey.
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This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $41,324,849 with 75% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov.