Substance & Alcohol Use Disorder: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as drug addiction, alcohol problem.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Substance use disorder means a person has lost reliable control over alcohol, cannabis, tramadol, codeine or other substances despite harm to health, work or family — a recognised medical condition, not simply weak will. Opioid misuse (tramadol, codeine syrup) is a growing problem among young Nigerians. Treatment works, and earlier is easier.
Symptoms
Strong cravings and failed attempts to cut down
Needing more of the substance for the same effect
Withdrawal symptoms — shaking, sweating, anxiety — when stopping
Neglecting work, school or family responsibilities
Continuing use despite obvious harm
Hiding or lying about use
Spending beyond means to obtain the substance
Causes & risk factors
Brain reward-system changes with repeated use
Genetic vulnerability and family history
Stress, trauma and untreated mental illness
Peer pressure and easy availability
Treatment & self-care
Treatment combines medically supervised detox where needed, medicines that ease withdrawal and cravings, and structured counselling or rehabilitation; relapse is part of the illness, not proof treatment failed. Family support and treating underlying depression or anxiety improve outcomes. Confidential help is available — including by telehealth.
See a doctor urgently if
You cannot stop despite wanting to
Withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop
Blackouts, overdose or injecting use
Substance use harming your job, studies or family
Thoughts of self-harm
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Substance & Alcohol Use Disorder?
Early signs often include strong cravings and failed attempts to cut down, needing more of the substance for the same effect, withdrawal symptoms — shaking, sweating, anxiety — when stopping. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Substance & Alcohol Use Disorder be treated?
Treatment combines medically supervised detox where needed, medicines that ease withdrawal and cravings, and structured counselling or rehabilitation; relapse is part of the illness, not proof treatment failed. Family support and treating underlying depression or anxiety improve outcomes. Confidential help is available — including by telehealth.
When should I see a doctor about Substance & Alcohol Use Disorder?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: you cannot stop despite wanting to; withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop; blackouts, overdose or injecting use; substance use harming your job, studies or family; thoughts of self-harm.