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Substance Use Disorder Resources
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Need Help Now?
The following are resources with guidance for the next steps.
- Rosalind Franklin University Student Counseling Service: 847-578-8723
- Rosalind Franklin University Student Health and Wellness Center: 224-570-7201
- Rosalind Franklin University Campus Safety: 847-578-3288, 24/7 for emergency access to Narcan.
- Parkdale Center: 219-400-3545, 24/7 support specific to healthcare professionals and students of healthcare professions.
- Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration: 800-662-4357, 24/7 support open to all professions
What Is Substance Use Disorder?
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a disease that can affect individuals at all stages of life. The Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports the results of the 2022 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). This survey is conducted every year and provides statistical information on substance use in people aged 12 years and older in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in 2023, approximately 48.7 million individuals disclosed that they had encountered substance use disorder in the year 2022.
The Unique Stressors of Medical Training
Graduate students in the medical professions, residents, and clinical professionals face specific stressors that increase their risk of developing SUD. These factors can include:
- Long Hours and Sleep Deprivation: Graduate students and healthcare workers often work extended hours, including overnight shifts. Lack of sleep can lead to burnout and increase the likelihood of using substances like alcohol, caffeine, or even prescription medications to cope with fatigue.
- High Academic and Clinical Demands: The pressure to excel academically and in clinical rotations can be overwhelming. This constant pressure to perform at a high level can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression, which may lead individuals to turn to substances as a form of coping.
- Isolation and Lack of Work-Life Balance: Long hours in clinical settings and demanding study schedules often leave little time for socializing or family activities, leading to feelings of isolation. This isolation can increase the risk of mental health issues and substance misuse.
- Perfectionism and Fear of Failure: Medical professionals are held to high standards, and the fear of failure or making a mistake in a clinical setting can create significant stress. Some may inadvertently turn to substances as a way to numb their fears or anxieties.