Substance use concerns deserve a conversation without judgment. I would want to understand your goals and how use may affect safety or medication decisions. The discussion can also confirm whether this practice is the right setting to support you.
A concern may involve alcohol, prescription medicine, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, nicotine, or another substance. Effects can show up in health, mood, sleep, work, relationships, money, or legal problems.
Warning signs can include needing more of a substance, feeling unable to cut down, using despite consequences, or feeling sick when use stops. Substance use and mental health symptoms can occur together.
SAMHSA describes substance use disorder as a health condition and lists treatment and recovery resources. Review its substance use information.
A clinician may ask what substances are used, how much and how often, when they were last used, prior withdrawal or overdose, treatment history, medicines, physical health, mood, anxiety, and safety.
Be honest about use even when it feels uncomfortable. The information can affect medication safety and the level of care needed. Ask how privacy works and which information must be shared in an emergency.
Bring a medication list, prior treatment information, and contact details for current clinicians if coordination is needed. If stopping a substance may cause withdrawal, seek medical guidance rather than managing it alone.
Treatment varies by substance, severity, health risks, and personal goals. It may involve medication, counseling, a structured program, recovery support, medical care, or treatment for co-occurring conditions.
Westfield lists psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Confirm whether the needed substance use treatment is offered or requires a specialty program.
Does the practice assess or treat my specific concern? Is withdrawal management, medication for substance use disorder, counseling, or a higher level of care needed? How will other mental health care be coordinated?
Use the current contact route to confirm fit. SAMHSA also provides a treatment finder and national helpline.
These sources provide general education and do not define Westfield’s clinical scope.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. In the United States, call or text 988 for mental health crisis support.
