Substance Use Disorder: Support and Recovery Notes
Understand treatment and support for substance use problems, with optional everyday health records that complement professional recovery and safety plans.
Asking for support does not require a perfect explanation. You can begin with what has become difficult and what you would like to change, at a pace that makes help possible.
Start your food and symptom diary
Understanding Substance use disorder
Substance use problems can affect health, relationships and everyday life. Dependence and withdrawal differ between substances. A professional assessment considers what you use, your circumstances and the treatment or harm-reduction support that fits your needs. [1]
Care and everyday food decisions
Treatment may include talking therapies, medicines, medically supported withdrawal and practical help. Ask for a safe plan rather than stopping or changing substances without advice. For opioid risks, discuss access to naloxone and how people around you can respond to an overdose. [1]
Keeping a useful personal record
If useful, keep brief notes about eating, sleep, prescribed treatment and questions for your support team. Record only what you choose to store. One Food Forward does not supervise detoxification, monitor overdose risk or alert a keyworker; it is optional alongside professional support.
Related reading: Alcohol use disorder.
Do I need to stop using before I can ask for help?
No. You can ask for advice, treatment and harm-reduction support now. A service can help plan appropriate next steps for your circumstances. [1] [2]
Keep the details somewhere you can find them
There is no need to tell the whole story at once. Start with today’s meal, a symptom or a few words about how you felt. Those small entries give you something to return to when it is time to talk about your care.
Sources and further reading
Your healthcare team should guide diagnosis, treatment and changes to your diet or medicines.
Spotted something that needs correcting? Contact One Food Forward support and include this page’s address.