Trust SoCalDrug & Alcohol Treatment Center
Trust SoCalDrug & Alcohol Treatment Center
Clear definitions of the medical, clinical, and recovery terminology you will encounter during treatment
Navigating addiction treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when medical professionals use clinical terms you may not be familiar with. This glossary provides clear, concise definitions of the most common terms used in addiction medicine, behavioral health, and recovery support.
Whether you are researching treatment options for yourself or a loved one, preparing for an admissions conversation, or simply seeking to understand the language of recovery, this resource is designed to help you feel informed and empowered at every step.
The complete avoidance of all mood- and mind-altering substances. Abstinence is a foundational principle in many recovery programs and is often the primary goal of treatment. While it does not address the psychological aspects of addiction on its own, it provides a stable baseline from which deeper therapeutic work can begin.
A chronic, relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. Addiction involves changes in brain circuitry related to reward, stress, and self-control. It is recognized by the medical community as a treatable medical condition, not a moral failing or a lack of willpower.
Learn moreOngoing support and services provided after a client completes a primary treatment program. Aftercare typically includes continued therapy, support group attendance, sober living arrangements, and alumni programming. Research consistently shows that sustained aftercare engagement is one of the strongest predictors of long-term recovery success.
Learn moreA mutual support organization for friends and family members of individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder. Al-Anon meetings provide education, coping strategies, and peer support using principles adapted from the Twelve Steps. Participation helps loved ones set healthy boundaries and care for their own well-being while supporting someone in recovery.
Learn moreA medical diagnosis defined in the DSM-5 as a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. AUD is categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on the number of diagnostic criteria met. It encompasses what was previously referred to as alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Learn moreA commonly used term for chronic alcohol addiction characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative physical, psychological, and social consequences. While the clinical community now prefers the term alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcoholism remains widely understood by the general public and in Twelve Step settings.
Learn moreA class of prescription sedative medications including diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazepam (Ativan), commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. Benzodiazepines carry a high potential for physical dependence, and withdrawal can be medically dangerous or life-threatening without proper supervision.
Learn moreA pattern of alcohol consumption that raises blood alcohol concentration to 0.08 percent or above, typically occurring when men consume five or more drinks or women consume four or more drinks within approximately two hours. Binge drinking is the most common form of excessive alcohol use and significantly increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorder.
Learn moreA mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Bipolar disorder frequently co-occurs with substance use disorders, as individuals may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate mood episodes. Integrated dual diagnosis treatment is essential for individuals with both conditions.
Learn moreA period of alcohol-induced amnesia during which a person is conscious and functioning but unable to form new memories. Blackouts are caused by alcohol interfering with the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory consolidation. Frequent blackouts are a significant warning sign of heavy drinking and potential alcohol use disorder.
Learn moreA measurement of the percentage of alcohol present in the bloodstream, used to determine the degree of intoxication. A BAC of 0.08 percent is the legal limit for driving in all 50 states. BAC is influenced by factors such as body weight, rate of consumption, gender, food intake, and individual metabolic differences.
A partial opioid agonist medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense euphoria associated with full opioid agonists. It is commonly prescribed as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) under brand names including Suboxone and Subutex.
Learn moreA collaborative process in which a dedicated professional coordinates all aspects of a client's care, including treatment planning, referrals, insurance coordination, and discharge planning. Effective case management ensures continuity of care across different treatment levels and connects clients with community resources that support long-term recovery.
An evidence-based psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change distorted thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors. In addiction treatment, CBT teaches clients to recognize triggers, challenge automatic thoughts that lead to substance use, and develop healthier coping strategies. It is one of the most widely researched and effective therapeutic modalities for substance use disorders.
Learn moreA condition in which an individual has developed a physical and psychological reliance on one or more chemical substances. Chemical dependency is characterized by tolerance, withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, and continued use despite adverse consequences. The term is often used interchangeably with substance use disorder in clinical settings.
A standardized clinical assessment tool used to measure the severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The CIWA-Ar protocol scores ten categories of symptoms including nausea, tremor, anxiety, and agitation on a numerical scale. Medical staff use CIWA scores to guide medication administration and monitor the safety of the detoxification process.
Learn moreA comprehensive evaluation conducted upon admission to a treatment program to determine the appropriate level of care and develop an individualized treatment plan. Clinical assessments typically include a biopsychosocial evaluation, substance use history, mental health screening, medical examination, and assessment of social and environmental factors.
The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more mental health conditions in the same individual. Common co-occurring combinations include addiction with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Effective treatment requires an integrated approach that addresses both conditions concurrently rather than treating them separately.
Learn moreA powerful stimulant drug derived from the coca plant that produces intense but short-lived euphoria by flooding the brain with dopamine. Cocaine is highly addictive and can be snorted, smoked (as crack), or injected. Chronic use leads to cardiovascular damage, neurological complications, and severe psychological dependence.
Learn moreA dysfunctional relationship pattern in which one person enables another person's addiction, irresponsibility, or unhealthy behavior, often at the expense of their own needs and well-being. Codependency frequently develops in families affected by addiction and can perpetuate the cycle of substance use. Family therapy and programs like Al-Anon help address codependent dynamics.
Learn moreA structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In addiction treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy helps clients identify cognitive distortions that contribute to substance use, develop practical coping skills, and build relapse prevention strategies. It is supported by decades of clinical research.
Learn moreThe abrupt and complete cessation of substance use without tapering or medical assistance. While going cold turkey may seem like a decisive approach, it can be medically dangerous for certain substances, particularly alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, where sudden withdrawal can cause seizures, delirium, or other life-threatening complications. Medical detox is strongly recommended instead.
Learn moreThe presence of two or more medical or psychiatric conditions in the same person at the same time. In addiction medicine, comorbidity most commonly refers to the co-existence of a substance use disorder with a mental health condition. Comorbid conditions complicate treatment and require an integrated, multidisciplinary approach for optimal outcomes.
Learn moreA comprehensive system of treatment services that spans multiple levels of intensity, from medical detox and residential treatment through outpatient care and aftercare support. The continuum of care model ensures that clients can step up or step down between levels as their clinical needs change, providing seamless transitions and sustained support throughout recovery.
Drugs and chemical substances whose manufacture, possession, and use are regulated by the federal government under the Controlled Substances Act. Substances are classified into five schedules (I through V) based on their medical utility, potential for abuse, and likelihood of causing dependence. Schedule I substances have no accepted medical use and high abuse potential, while Schedule V substances have the lowest.
A therapeutic community model that emphasizes peer support, personal accountability, and shared responsibility within treatment settings. COPE environments create structured group living situations where residents support one another's recovery while developing life skills, interpersonal communication, and community-building practices that translate to life outside treatment.
An intense, often overwhelming desire or urge to use a substance. Cravings are driven by neurochemical changes in the brain's reward circuitry and can be triggered by environmental cues, emotional states, stress, or social situations associated with past substance use. Learning to identify, tolerate, and manage cravings is a central focus of evidence-based addiction treatment.
Immediate, short-term psychological and medical assistance provided to individuals experiencing an acute mental health or substance use crisis. Crisis intervention aims to stabilize the person, ensure their safety, reduce the intensity of the crisis, and connect them with appropriate ongoing care. It is often the entry point into the treatment system for people in acute distress.
The phenomenon in which a person recovering from one substance addiction develops a dependency on a different substance or behavior. For example, someone in recovery from alcohol may begin misusing prescription medications or develop a gambling problem. Cross-addiction highlights the importance of addressing underlying addictive patterns rather than focusing solely on a single substance.
An evidence-based form of cognitive behavioral therapy originally developed for borderline personality disorder that has been adapted for addiction treatment. DBT focuses on four key skill areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is particularly effective for clients who struggle with intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors.
Learn moreA severe and potentially life-threatening form of alcohol withdrawal characterized by sudden onset confusion, rapid heartbeat, fever, hallucinations, and seizures. Delirium tremens typically occurs 48 to 96 hours after the last drink in individuals with a history of heavy, prolonged alcohol use. It constitutes a medical emergency requiring immediate supervised care.
Learn moreA psychological defense mechanism in which an individual refuses to acknowledge the reality or severity of their substance use problem. Denial is one of the hallmark features of addiction and can manifest as minimizing consumption, blaming others for consequences, or rationalizing continued use. Therapeutic interventions such as motivational interviewing are specifically designed to help individuals work through denial.
A physiological state in which the body has adapted to the regular presence of a substance and requires continued use to function normally. Physical dependence is characterized by tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. Dependence can develop independently of addiction but frequently accompanies it.
A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest, and impaired daily functioning. Depression frequently co-occurs with substance use disorders, as individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with depressive symptoms. Dual diagnosis treatment that addresses both depression and addiction simultaneously produces the best outcomes.
Learn moreThe medically supervised process of safely managing the acute physical symptoms of withdrawal that occur when a person stops using drugs or alcohol. Medical detox may include administration of medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, monitoring of vital signs, and nutritional support. Detox is an essential first step in treatment but is not a substitute for comprehensive addiction therapy.
Learn moreA comprehensive, evidence-based psychotherapy that combines cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices derived from Buddhist traditions. Dialectical behavior therapy teaches four core skill sets: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation. It is highly effective for individuals with co-occurring personality disorders, self-harm behaviors, and chronic emotional dysregulation.
Learn moreThe process of developing a comprehensive plan for a client's transition out of a treatment program and into the next appropriate level of care or independent living. Effective discharge planning begins early in treatment and includes referrals to outpatient providers, sober living placement, support group recommendations, medication management, and relapse prevention strategies.
Learn moreA neurotransmitter that plays a central role in the brain's reward and pleasure systems. Most addictive substances cause a surge of dopamine in the brain, producing feelings of euphoria that reinforce continued use. Over time, chronic substance use disrupts normal dopamine signaling, leading to tolerance, anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure from natural rewards), and compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
A specialized court program that diverts nonviolent drug offenders from incarceration into structured treatment and supervision. Drug courts combine judicial oversight with substance abuse treatment, regular drug testing, and incentives for compliance. Research shows that drug court participants have significantly lower recidivism and substance use rates compared to those processed through the traditional criminal justice system.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM-5 is the standard classification system used by mental health professionals in the United States to diagnose psychiatric conditions, including substance use disorders. It replaced the previous distinction between substance abuse and substance dependence with a single substance use disorder diagnosis on a severity spectrum.
A clinical term for the condition in which a person is diagnosed with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder simultaneously. Common dual diagnosis combinations include alcohol use disorder with depression, opioid addiction with anxiety, and stimulant use disorder with bipolar disorder. Integrated treatment that addresses both diagnoses concurrently is considered the gold standard of care.
Learn moreLegal abbreviations for Driving Under the Influence and Driving While Intoxicated, both referring to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. DUI/DWI charges carry serious legal consequences including fines, license suspension, mandatory treatment programs, and potential incarceration. A DUI/DWI arrest is often a pivotal event that prompts individuals to seek addiction treatment.
A confidential, employer-sponsored benefit program that provides employees with assessment, short-term counseling, and referrals for personal and work-related issues, including substance use problems. EAPs serve as a low-barrier entry point to treatment and often cover the cost of initial assessment sessions. They play an important role in early identification and intervention for workplace substance use concerns.
A structured psychotherapy technique that uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity. EMDR has been extensively validated for the treatment of PTSD and is increasingly used in addiction treatment for clients whose substance use is driven by unresolved trauma.
Learn moreBehaviors by family members, friends, or associates that unintentionally shield an addicted person from experiencing the full consequences of their substance use. Examples include making excuses for missed obligations, providing financial support that funds substance use, or covering up the individual's behavior. Enabling prolongs active addiction by removing the natural motivation to seek help.
Learn moreTreatment approaches and interventions whose effectiveness has been demonstrated through rigorous scientific research, including randomized controlled trials and peer-reviewed studies. In addiction treatment, evidence-based practices include cognitive behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, motivational interviewing, and contingency management. Reputable treatment centers prioritize these proven methods as the foundation of their clinical programming.
A form of psychotherapy that involves multiple members of a family system and focuses on improving communication, resolving conflict, and addressing dysfunctional relational patterns that may contribute to or be affected by addiction. Family therapy recognizes that addiction impacts the entire family unit and that recovery is strengthened when the family system heals together.
Learn moreA synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. While fentanyl has legitimate medical uses for severe pain management, illicitly manufactured fentanyl has become a leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States. Its extreme potency means that even a tiny amount can be fatal, and it is frequently found mixed into other street drugs without the user's knowledge.
Learn moreA form of psychotherapy in which one or more trained therapists facilitate a structured session with a small group of clients who share similar issues. In addiction treatment, group therapy provides peer support, accountability, opportunities to practice interpersonal skills, and the realization that others share similar struggles. Group therapy is a core component of virtually all addiction treatment programs.
Learn moreA supervised, substance-free residential facility that provides structured living for individuals transitioning from intensive treatment back into independent community life. Halfway houses typically require residents to follow house rules, attend recovery meetings, submit to drug testing, and work toward employment or educational goals. They serve as a bridge between the controlled environment of treatment and full independence.
Learn moreA set of practical strategies and public health approaches aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use rather than requiring immediate abstinence. Harm reduction methods include needle exchange programs, naloxone distribution, supervised injection sites, and medication-assisted treatment. While controversial in some circles, harm reduction saves lives and often serves as a gateway to further treatment engagement.
An illicit opioid synthesized from morphine that produces intense euphoria followed by a drowsy, sedated state. Heroin is highly addictive and can be injected, snorted, or smoked. It carries extreme risks including fatal overdose, infectious disease transmission (from injection), and rapid development of physical dependence. Many individuals who develop heroin addiction initially became dependent on prescription opioids.
Learn moreA federal law enacted in 1996 that establishes national standards for the protection of patient health information. In addiction treatment, HIPAA regulations, along with the more stringent 42 CFR Part 2 regulations specific to substance use treatment records, ensure that a client's treatment information remains confidential and cannot be disclosed without explicit written consent.
An approach to addiction recovery that addresses the whole person, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions, rather than focusing solely on substance use. Holistic treatment modalities may include yoga, meditation, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, art therapy, equine therapy, and mindfulness practices. These approaches complement evidence-based clinical therapies and support overall well-being.
Learn moreA structured level of addiction treatment that provides multiple hours of therapy several days per week while allowing clients to live at home and maintain daily responsibilities. IOP typically includes group therapy, individual counseling, and psychoeducation. It is appropriate for individuals stepping down from residential care or those whose clinical needs do not require a residential setting.
Learn moreA carefully planned process in which family members and friends confront a person about their destructive substance use behavior and urge them to accept treatment. Professional interventionists guide the process, helping participants prepare specific statements and establish consequences if the individual refuses help. When conducted properly, interventions are a powerful tool for overcoming denial and initiating the treatment process.
A state of impaired physical and mental functioning resulting from the ingestion of a psychoactive substance. Intoxication symptoms vary by substance but commonly include impaired judgment, slurred speech, loss of coordination, mood changes, and altered perception. The severity of intoxication depends on the substance consumed, the amount, the speed of consumption, and individual tolerance.
An independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the United States. JCAHO accreditation, now referred to as Joint Commission accreditation, indicates that a treatment facility meets rigorous standards for quality, safety, and clinical care. Accreditation is a mark of excellence that families should look for when evaluating treatment providers.
A neurological phenomenon in which repeated episodes of substance withdrawal become progressively more severe over time, even if the amount of substance used has not increased. Kindling is particularly well-documented with alcohol withdrawal, where each subsequent detox episode carries an elevated risk of seizures and delirium tremens. This phenomenon underscores the importance of seeking treatment early and completing it thoroughly.
Learn moreA master's-level mental health professional who has completed supervised clinical hours and passed a licensing examination. LCSWs are trained in psychotherapy, case management, and advocacy, and they play a vital role in addiction treatment settings. They provide individual and group therapy, conduct clinical assessments, and coordinate discharge planning and community referrals.
An evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. Medications used in MAT include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone for opioid use disorder, and acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone for alcohol use disorder. MAT has been shown to reduce illicit drug use, overdose deaths, criminal activity, and transmission of infectious diseases.
Learn moreA long-acting synthetic opioid agonist used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. Methadone reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, blocks the euphoric effects of other opioids, and is dispensed in federally regulated clinics. When prescribed at appropriate doses, methadone allows individuals to function normally, maintain employment, and engage in therapeutic work without experiencing the highs and lows of active opioid use.
Learn moreA powerful, highly addictive synthetic stimulant that affects the central nervous system by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Methamphetamine can be smoked, snorted, injected, or taken orally. Chronic use causes severe dental damage, skin sores, weight loss, cognitive impairment, psychosis, and cardiovascular problems. Treatment typically involves behavioral therapies, as no FDA-approved medications currently exist for methamphetamine use disorder.
Learn moreA client-centered, evidence-based counseling technique designed to strengthen an individual's internal motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. Motivational interviewing uses open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to help clients articulate their own reasons for pursuing recovery. It is particularly effective in early stages of treatment when clients may be uncertain about their commitment to change.
Learn moreA global, community-based organization that provides peer support for individuals recovering from drug addiction through a Twelve Step program. NA meetings are free, anonymous, and available in communities worldwide. Members share their experiences, support one another through challenges, and work the Twelve Steps with the guidance of a sponsor. NA is a valuable resource for building a sober support network.
An opioid antagonist medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by displacing opioid molecules from brain receptors. Naloxone is available as an injectable or nasal spray (brand name Narcan) and can restore normal breathing within minutes. It is considered an essential, life-saving medication and is increasingly available without a prescription in pharmacies and through community distribution programs.
Learn moreAn opioid antagonist medication used in medication-assisted treatment to reduce cravings and block the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol. Naltrexone is available in daily oral form (ReVia) and as a monthly injectable (Vivitrol). Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone has no abuse potential and does not produce physical dependence, making it an attractive option for many individuals in recovery.
Learn moreThe most widely recognized brand name for naloxone nasal spray, a medication used to reverse opioid overdose. Narcan is designed for use by bystanders and first responders and requires no medical training to administer. It has been credited with saving tens of thousands of lives since its introduction and is now available over the counter at pharmacies throughout the United States.
Learn moreA chemical messenger that transmits signals between nerve cells (neurons) in the brain and throughout the nervous system. Key neurotransmitters involved in addiction include dopamine (reward and motivation), serotonin (mood regulation), GABA (inhibition and calming), and norepinephrine (alertness and stress response). Addictive substances disrupt normal neurotransmitter balance, driving the cycle of dependence and compulsive use.
A federal research institute within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) dedicated to advancing the science of drug use and addiction. NIDA funds the majority of the world's research on the health aspects of drug abuse and addiction, publishes treatment guidelines, and develops evidence-based resources for clinicians and the public. NIDA's principles of effective treatment inform clinical practice nationwide.
A mental health condition characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed in an attempt to reduce anxiety. OCD can co-occur with substance use disorders when individuals use drugs or alcohol to cope with the distress caused by obsessive thoughts and compulsive rituals. Integrated treatment addressing both conditions is essential for lasting recovery.
Learn moreA class of drugs that includes both natural substances derived from the opium poppy (such as morphine and codeine) and synthetic compounds (such as fentanyl and methadone) that bind to opioid receptors in the brain. Opioids are prescribed for pain relief but carry a high risk of dependence and addiction. The opioid crisis in the United States has led to unprecedented rates of overdose deaths and prompted significant changes in prescribing practices and treatment approaches.
Learn moreA level of addiction treatment in which clients attend scheduled therapy sessions at a treatment facility while continuing to live at home. Outpatient treatment varies in intensity from standard weekly sessions to more structured programs. It is appropriate for individuals with stable living environments and strong support systems who do not require the round-the-clock supervision of residential or inpatient care.
Learn moreA potentially fatal medical emergency that occurs when a person consumes a toxic amount of a substance, overwhelming the body's ability to process it. Opioid overdose is characterized by respiratory depression (slowed or stopped breathing), loss of consciousness, and pinpoint pupils. Overdose from stimulants can cause heart attack, stroke, or seizures. Immediate medical intervention and, for opioid overdose, administration of naloxone can be life-saving.
A set of lingering withdrawal symptoms that can persist for weeks or months after the acute phase of detoxification has ended. PAWS symptoms may include mood swings, anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and reduced stress tolerance. Understanding PAWS is critical for relapse prevention, as these persistent symptoms can trigger cravings and undermine early recovery if not properly managed.
A structured, intensive level of outpatient treatment that typically involves five or more hours of therapeutic programming per day, five days per week. PHP provides a level of clinical care similar to residential treatment while allowing clients to return home or to a sober living residence in the evenings. It is commonly used as a step-down from residential treatment or as a primary treatment level for clients who do not require 24-hour supervision.
Learn moreA physiological adaptation in which the body becomes accustomed to a substance and requires its continued presence to function normally. Physical dependence is characterized by the development of tolerance and the emergence of withdrawal symptoms when the substance is reduced or discontinued. Physical dependence can occur with many medications, including some that are not addictive, and does not necessarily indicate addiction.
The use of more than one drug simultaneously or within a short time period. Polysubstance use significantly increases the risk of adverse health effects, overdose, and death because substances can interact in unpredictable and dangerous ways. Treatment for polysubstance use requires a comprehensive clinical assessment and an individualized treatment plan that addresses all substances involved.
A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbing. PTSD and substance use disorders frequently co-occur, as individuals may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate trauma-related symptoms. Trauma-informed treatment approaches such as EMDR and trauma-focused CBT are essential components of recovery for clients with PTSD.
Learn moreA process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Recovery from addiction is more than abstinence from substances; it encompasses physical health, mental well-being, purpose, community connection, and a sense of hope. Recovery is a lifelong journey that looks different for every individual and often involves multiple pathways and supports.
A broad term encompassing the structured programs and therapeutic services designed to help individuals recover from substance use disorders and return to productive, healthy lives. Rehabilitation (rehab) may take place in residential, outpatient, or community-based settings and typically includes a combination of medical care, psychotherapy, life skills training, and peer support.
Learn moreA return to substance use after a period of abstinence or reduced use. Relapse is a common part of the recovery process and does not mean that treatment has failed. It is best understood as a signal that the treatment plan needs adjustment. Research indicates that relapse rates for addiction are comparable to those for other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
A cognitive-behavioral approach that teaches individuals to identify high-risk situations, recognize early warning signs of relapse, and develop coping strategies to maintain sobriety. Relapse prevention planning is a core component of addiction treatment and typically includes trigger identification, coping skill development, lifestyle changes, and contingency planning for potential setback scenarios.
Learn moreA level of addiction care in which clients live full-time at a treatment facility and participate in a structured, daily schedule of individual and group therapy, medical care, and experiential activities. Residential treatment provides 24-hour supervision and a substance-free environment, making it ideal for individuals with moderate to severe substance use disorders who need immersive clinical support to establish a foundation for recovery.
Learn moreA federal agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the nation's behavioral health. SAMHSA provides grants to treatment providers, publishes treatment guidelines, operates the National Helpline (1-800-662-4357), and maintains an online treatment locator. It is a primary source of data, best practices, and policy guidance for the addiction treatment field.
The use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with physical pain, emotional distress, or symptoms of an undiagnosed or untreated mental health condition. Self-medication provides temporary relief but ultimately worsens both the underlying condition and the substance use problem. Identifying and treating the root cause of self-medication through dual diagnosis treatment is essential for lasting recovery.
Learn moreA structured, substance-free residential environment designed for individuals in early recovery who need continued support after completing treatment but before returning to fully independent living. Sober living homes provide accountability through house rules, drug testing, and peer support while encouraging residents to work, attend school, and build life skills. They are an important bridge in the continuum of care.
Learn moreThe state of being free from the influence of drugs and alcohol. While sobriety is often used synonymously with abstinence, many in the recovery community view it as a broader concept that encompasses not just the absence of substance use but also the presence of emotional stability, personal growth, and meaningful engagement with life.
An experienced member of a Twelve Step fellowship (such as AA or NA) who provides one-on-one guidance, support, and accountability to a newer member working through the Steps. The sponsor relationship is a cornerstone of Twelve Step recovery, offering mentorship, encouragement during difficult times, and a personal connection to someone who understands the challenges of sustained sobriety.
The clinical term used in the DSM-5 to describe a pattern of substance use that causes significant impairment or distress. Substance use disorder is diagnosed on a spectrum of mild, moderate, or severe based on the number of criteria met, including impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological indicators. SUD is the preferred diagnostic terminology in modern clinical practice, replacing the older terms substance abuse and substance dependence.
A prescription medication containing a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, used in medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. The buprenorphine component reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while the naloxone component discourages misuse by precipitating withdrawal if the medication is injected. Suboxone is administered as a sublingual film or tablet and can be prescribed by certified physicians in office-based settings.
Learn moreA physiological adaptation in which the body requires progressively larger doses of a substance to achieve the same effect. Tolerance develops as the brain adjusts its receptor sensitivity and neurotransmitter production in response to chronic substance exposure. The development of tolerance often leads to escalating use, increasing the risk of dependence, adverse health effects, and overdose.
An emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope, causing lasting effects on mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Trauma can result from a single incident (such as an accident or assault) or from chronic exposure to adverse conditions (such as childhood neglect or domestic violence). Unresolved trauma is a significant risk factor for developing substance use disorders.
Learn moreAny person, place, thing, situation, emotion, or sensory experience that prompts a craving or urge to use substances. Triggers can be external (such as visiting a location associated with past use or encountering people from one's using days) or internal (such as feelings of stress, loneliness, anger, or boredom). Identifying and developing strategies to manage personal triggers is a fundamental component of relapse prevention.
A set of guiding principles originally developed by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) that outline a path to recovery from addiction through spiritual and character development. The Twelve Steps include admitting powerlessness, seeking a higher power, taking moral inventory, making amends, and committing to ongoing personal growth. Twelve Step programs remain the most widely available form of peer-based recovery support worldwide.
The set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person who is physically dependent on a substance reduces or stops use. Withdrawal symptoms vary significantly by substance and can range from uncomfortable (insomnia, anxiety, muscle aches) to life-threatening (seizures, delirium tremens, cardiovascular collapse). Medical supervision during withdrawal is strongly recommended, particularly for alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids.
Learn moreThis glossary contains 96 terms and is regularly updated by our clinical team. If you encounter a term not listed here, please contact us and we will be happy to explain.
Recovery begins with a single step. Our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way.