SERVICES
SUBSTANCE/MEDICATION-INDUCED DISORDERS

 
 

The use of substances (or certain prescription medicines) can trigger a number of psychiatric symptoms or even full-blown disorders. These can present as mood, anxiety and even psychotic disorders, to name a few. Such symptoms can also occur in the presence of substance intoxication or withdrawal .

Substances and common medications that can result in psychiatric symptoms can include:

  • Cannabis (“dagga”, marijuana, “weed”, etc.)
  • Caffeine
  • Opioids (tramadol, codeine, morphine, heroin)
  • Stimulants (“crystal meth”, cocaine)
  • “Psychedelic” drugs (e.g. LSD, mushrooms, ecstasy)
  • Tobacco
  • Anti-Parkinson medicine
  • Chemotherapy drugs
  • Sedatives/Sleeping tablets
  • Corticosteroids
  • Inhalants (e.g. paint thinner, glue)

MOOD, ANXIETY & PERSONALITY DISORDERS

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE AND TRAUMA-RELATED DISORDERS

SCHIZOPHRENIA SPECTRUM AND RELATED PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS

SUBSTANCE/MEDICATION-INDUCED DISORDERS, REQUIRING DUAL DIAGNOSTIC MANAGEMENT

NEUROPSYCHIATRIC AND BODY-RELATED CONDITIONS

FAQ

1Can substance use or addictions ever be stopped entirely?
Although some complications of substance use can be reversed, some symptoms, such as “cravings”, or sleep disturbances, can be more persistent. Although the journey of abstaining from addiction is often a constant one, it is one that is possible with healthy and stable support systems in place. Remember, even relapses can form part of that journey, and one step backwards does not erase the progress that you’ve made!

TREATMENT

Psychiatric symptoms, such as psychosis, can occur with first-time use of any drug. However, the more a substance is used, the more likely the risk will be of such disorders developing. Many of these symptoms can be reversible by stopping the substance or treating the medical condition. Still, some of these symptoms can persist if treatment is delayed or substance abuse is prolonged. A proper treatment plan with appropriate medications can help treat severe symptoms, but the most effective treatment plans address the substance use related to the disorder. In the case of some substances, like alcohol or opioids, the first stage in treatment is detoxification, whereby the person undergoes withdrawal from the substance in a safe and monitored environment. In all cases, struggling with substance abuse can prompt hopelessness and fear in a person, and stopping these substances long-term can be extremely difficult to keep to. Therefore, rehabilitation is paramount in the ongoing management of these disorders. This can involve several forms of support, such as ongoing therapy, regular follow-up appointments with one’s mental healthcare team, and support groups/classes where one can gain perspective and relate with others on similar journeys.