Recognizing Signs of Substance Use Disorders
By Anthony Licciardone Anthony is a graduate student at the University of San Diego pursuing his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He is passionate about increasing accessibility and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health for college students. Before joining Health Services, Anthony volunteered as a hotline counselor, providing clients with emotional support, crisis intervention, and referral to community resources and basic needs case managers. Substance use disorders (SUDs) are defined by the American Psychiatric Association as the inability to control substance use despite harmful consequences (2022). Substance use disorders are often accompanied by a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms. It is important to note that not all substance use can be categorized as a SUD. While substance use can manifest differently depending on the individual, some common early signs of a SUD include: Physical Warning Signs Bloodshot eyes Dilated pupils Change