Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders

Substance-related disorders pose significant public health challenges, leading to negative physical, emotional, and social consequences for individuals and communities. With increasing rates of substance abuse and addiction, it is imperative for psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) to have a comprehensive understanding of these disorders and their treatment. Substance-related disorders encompass a range of conditions, including substance abuse, substance dependence, and substance-induced disorders, often co-occurring with other psychiatric disorders. PMHNPs play a crucial role in assessing, diagnosing, and treating individuals with substance-related disorders, utilizing a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy approaches. This chapter provides an overview of substance-related disorders, including prevalence, impact, diagnostic criteria, pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic modalities.