Other & Emerging Substance Use Disorders Treatment

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Not all substance use fits into commonly recognized categories. In addition to alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and cannabis, many individuals use substances such as kratom, synthetic drugs, inhalants, or hallucinogens—sometimes on their own, and sometimes as part of a broader pattern of use.

Some of these substances are marketed as natural, legal, or lower risk, while others are less predictable in content and potency. In practice, they can still lead to patterns of use that are difficult to control and begin to affect mood, functioning, and overall stability.

Substance use disorder can develop when these patterns begin to interfere with daily life, regardless of the substance involved.

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder refers to patterns of use that become difficult to control and begin to impact functioning, decision-making, and well-being.

This may include:

  • Using more than intended
  • Difficulty cutting back or stopping
  • Cravings or urges to use
  • Continued use despite negative consequences

The condition exists on a spectrum and is identified based on how use is affecting a person’s life, rather than the specific substance alone.

Common Substances in This Category

Substances seen in this category may include:

  • Kratom
  • Synthetic substances (including synthetic cannabinoids and designer drugs)
  • Hallucinogens (LSD, psilocybin, MDMA)
  • Inhalants (such as nitrous oxide or other volatile substances)
  • Other non-traditional or emerging substances

These substances may be used on their own or alongside other substances, depending on availability, desired effects, or attempts to manage mood or withdrawal.

How These Substances Affect the Body and Mind

While these substances differ in how they affect the body, many can impact mood, perception, cognition, and overall functioning.

Common effects may include:

  • Changes in mood, anxiety, or emotional stability
  • Altered perception, thinking, or awareness
  • Cognitive impairment affecting memory and decision-making
  • Disruption in sleep, energy, and daily routine
  • Impact on relationships and responsibilities

Signs and Patterns of Use

Patterns of use may vary depending on the substance but often share common features.

Common patterns may include:

  • Increasing frequency or intensity of use
  • Using to manage stress, mood, or discomfort
  • Difficulty stopping or cutting back
  • Switching between substances or combining use
  • Continued use despite negative effects
  • Changes in behavior, mood, or daily functioning

Withdrawal and Detox Considerations

Withdrawal experiences can vary widely depending on the substance involved. Some substances may not produce significant physical withdrawal, while others can lead to discomfort or psychological distress when use is reduced or stopped.

Considerations may include:

  • Variable withdrawal symptoms depending on substance
  • Mood changes, anxiety, or sleep disruption
  • Cravings or difficulty maintaining abstinence
  • Need for clinical support to stabilize and establish routine

Detox planning is individualized based on the substances involved and the person’s overall health and history.

When Residential Treatment May Be Appropriate

Residential treatment may be helpful when substance use—regardless of type—has begun to affect stability, mental health, or daily functioning.

This level of care may be appropriate when someone is experiencing:

  • Difficulty stopping or reducing use
  • Use that is impacting mood, behavior, or functioning
  • Co-occurring mental health concerns
  • Use of multiple or less predictable substances
  • A need for structure, accountability, and clinical support

How Treatment at Vered Addresses Additional Substance Use

Treatment at Vered focuses on understanding patterns of use and how they connect to stress, behavior, and daily life, rather than focusing on a single substance alone.

Care may include:

  • Individual therapy with a primary clinician
  • Group therapy and psychoeducation
  • Exploration of underlying factors such as stress, trauma, and behavioral patterns
  • A structured residential environment that supports stabilization and routine
  • Integration of wellness practices to support physical and emotional recovery
  • Medical and psychiatric support as needed
  • Continuing care planning for next steps after residential treatment