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Substance Use & Addiction Care
Content medically reviewed by: Robert Pueringer, MD
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or unhealthy substance use, our compassionate substance use and addiction medicine team is here to help. We offer personalized support and treatment for substance use disorders, including those involving alcohol, opioids, methamphetamine, cannabis (marijuana), vaping, and tobacco.
Make an Appointment
Call the Essentia Health 24/7
Substance Use Disorder Referral
Line.
What is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance use disorder, also referred to as addiction, is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences. Prevention efforts and treatment approaches for addiction are generally as successful as those for other chronic diseases (ASAM).
What is an Addiction Medicine Physician?
An addiction medicine physician is a doctor specially trained in assessing substance use and treating substance use disorders, withdrawal, and related conditions.
Even if not directly seeing you, an Addiction Medicine Physician can serve as a consultant to any provider at Essentia Health and be involved in your care.
When to Get Help
Get help if substance use:
- Interferes with your daily activities
- Impacts your quality of life
- Affects your emotional, physical, and mental health
- Affects your relationships
- Causes financial or legal problems
If you or a loved one have symptoms of an overdose or serious withdrawal, call 911 or get medical attention right away. Withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines can be life-threatening.
Get help for alcohol, painkiller, or other drug use—no referral needed. To make an appointment call the Essentia Health 24/7 Substance Use Disorder Referral Line at 833-677-1262.
Conditions Treated
- Alcohol Use Disorder
- Opioid Use Disorder
- Stimulant Use Disorder
- Tobacco Use Disorder
What to Expect
At Essentia Health, we take an integrated approach to substance use care, bringing together medical, behavioral, and social support services to treat the whole person. Patients can expect a compassionate team that works collaboratively to understand their unique needs and goals. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or continuing your recovery journey, our care team including primary care providers, addiction specialists, mental health professionals, and care managers will partner with you every step of the way.
Our addiction medicine physicians will create a treatment plan that is right for you.
Your plan may include counseling, psychotherapy, medications, and referrals to counselors. We can also refer you to community support programs and addiction recovery resources.
Together, we create a personalized care plan that promotes healing, stability, and long-term wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What if I do not have insurance?
Ask your team about resources. They will connect you with someone who can help. -
Does taking buprenorphine just replace one addiction for another?
No. Buprenorphine can be viewed as a safer alternative. While it is substituting one opioid for another, it is an alternative that saves lives, and, most importantly, enables users to feel "normal" and allows them to live regular lives. -
I've finished detox and I do not plan to use opioids ever gain. Why should I start buprenorphine medicine?
Evidence shows that taking medicines for opioid use disorder more than doubles the chance that you will not use opioids while you are in treatment.
Taking buprenorphine reduces your risk of overdose death. Many people report having a better life on medication treatment. -
How can I convince my family members that buprenorphine will help?
Your family may have concerns about buprenorphine. Family members are welcome to come with you to appointments. -
What if I need to speak with someone after the clinic is closed?
Ask your provider about the best way to contact someone after hours. -
What if I can't afford my medical bills?
Talk with your clinic about financial aid or a payment plan.