According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 7 Americans reports experiencing a substance use disorder (SUD).¹ And there isn’t one single cause. SUD can affect people of any race, gender, income level, or social class.

The past several years have brought heightened stress, disruption to routines, financial uncertainty, and for many, exacerbated mental health issues. Some people turn to drugs or alcohol to help cope with anxiety, stress, trauma, and fall into addiction, while others may develop opioid use disorder after misusing opioids that were prescribed by doctors. No matter the reason, you are not alone, and with effective treatment, recovery is possible.

What is SUD?

An SUD is defined by the CDC as a treatable, chronic disease, characterized by a problematic pattern of use of a substance, leading to significant problems in all aspects of a person’s life.²   It is important to understand that it is a diagnosable medical condition that requires treatment and is not a moral failing. An SUD can involve the following types of drugs:

• Alcohol
• Cannabis
• Hallucinogens
• Inhalants
• Opioids
• Sedatives
• Stimulants
• Tobacco (nicotine)

What to look for in a SUD treatment provider

There is no shame in seeking treatment, and you should receive care from a provider who understands addiction and will give you the support and respect you deserve. Look for these qualities when choosing a treatment provider:

• Someone who actively listens and engages in a non-judgmental way.
• Someone who treats you with respect and addresses your SUD as a medical condition.
• Someone who is committed to getting you the help you need and who helps you understand that recovery is possible.

What does treatment look like?

Treatment for an SUD can take many forms. You can get help that is tailored for your specific needs. You may want to start your treatment journey with a visit to your primary care provider (PCP). Your doctor can help guide you to the care that is right for you.

Treatment options may include virtual treatment via secure video and messaging, medication, inpatient or outpatient treatment, expert counseling, peer support through a virtual care substance use disorder program, and assistance from a care advocate who can help you navigate the process. If you need help finding a provider in your area, use Premera’s Find a Doctor tool.

Care options through Premera

Recovery from SUD is possible through the behavioral healthcare options available through Premera. We’re here to support those struggling with addiction as they seek help on their healing journey.

All Premera health plans include access to both virtual and in-person mental health care, which can include treatment for substance use disorder. Our SUD care options allow you or a dependent to find a therapist, treatment facility, or enroll in out-patient care. If you don’t feel comfortable with in-person care, we also offer virtual substance use disorder treatment through Boulder Care or Workit Health.

Premera is here to help

To find out if your plan offers Boulder or Workit Health, sign into your account on premera.com or download the Premera mobile app and in Find care, check out Virtual Care services.

¹https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/stigma/

²https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/featured-topics/recovery-sud.html