How does a psychiatrist diagnose addiction?

Addiction to alcohol or drugs affects people from all walks of life. Symptoms of addiction include:

  • Problems with relationships, work, and daily life due to alcohol or drugs

  • Repeated inability to reduce alcohol or drug use, despite consequences

  • Persistent, strong, and irresistible cravings for alcohol or drugs

  • Devoting excessive time to getting, using, and recovering from alcohol or drugs

  • Regularly using more often than intended

  • Regularly using in greater amounts than intended

  • Needing more over time to get the original effect

  • Dangerous behavior due to alcohol or drug use

  • Physical withdrawal symptoms when not using alcohol or drugs

Can a psychiatrist test for addiction?

Dr. Smith takes many factors into account when evaluating for substance use disorders, including screening tests. Take an alcoholism test or an addiction test (for other substances) to measure your symptoms. (Responses are anonymous.)

Does Dr. Smith prescribe medication for addiction?

A saying goes, “Drugs are not the problem, they're the solution.” In other words, the best medication for addiction treats underlying symptoms that contribute to it, which can be from from untreated depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder (BPD), among other diagnoses. The most effective medication specifically for addiction is Suboxone for opioid addiction. Naltrexone can help with impulse control issues ranging from alcohol, gambling, overeating, and stealing. Addiction to vaping or cigarettes responds well to Chantix, even in some severe cases. The best addiction treatment often requires a team of mental health practitioners. As an addiction specialist, Dr. Smith coordinates care with a team of mental health colleagues to provide integrated and holistic treatment.

How do I talk to Dr. Smith about this?

Contact Dr. Smith for evaluation and treatment of addiction.