Other (Or Unknown) Substance Intoxication

Written by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM, Andrea Brant, LMHC, Laura Angers Maddox, NCC, LPC, and Melissa Guarnaccia, LCSW

Overview

Other (or unknown) substance intoxication is a diagnosis used when the ingestion of a substance causes clinically significant distress and fits the criteria for intoxication but does not meet the official diagnostic criteria of a specific substance use disorder¹ outlined in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) Fifth Edition (DSM-V). A healthcare provider may also designate other (or unknown) substance intoxication when they are unsure of the substance causing the intoxicating symptoms.

Substance intoxication often occurs when individuals consume substances like alcohol, hallucinogens, opioids, marijuana, or stimulants in amounts that exceed the body's ability to metabolize them effectively, thereby becoming intoxicated. Substance intoxication is a physical or mental state characterized by changes in perception, mood, consciousness, cognition, and behavior. Repeated use of these intoxicating substances may increase the risk of developing an addiction to the substance and a diagnosis of a substance use disorder such as alcohol use disorder (formerly called alcohol abuse).

The severity and duration of substance intoxication may vary depending on the type of substance used, the quantity consumed, the method of intake, and the individual's tolerance2 level. Other (or unknown) substance intoxication may be associated with other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, substance dependence, and sleep disorders. Recognizing the signs of substance intoxication, such as slurred speech, disorientation, unsteady movements, and mood swings, can be pivotal in seeking timely help and preventing further harm or the development of known or other (or unknown) substance addiction.

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Symptoms

Substance intoxication may include various symptoms depending on the potency of the substance and the level of addiction of the user. It may be helpful to understand the symptoms of substance intoxication as well as the signs of addiction, including the following:

Euphoria or extreme happiness
Slurred speech or difficulty in articulating thoughts
Impaired coordination or balance
Changes in behavior, such as aggression or exaggerated self-confidence
Altered perception of reality, including hallucinations or delusions
Increase or decrease in heart rate
Bloodshot or glazed eyes
Unconsciousness or periods of blackouts

Symptoms may vary depending on the nature of the substance used and its side effects. Additionally, individuals who use substances regularly may be at risk of developing an addiction. Developing an addiction to a substance can be dangerous, as addiction may lead to dependence on the substance, which may also lead to difficult withdrawal symptoms when attempting to cease use of the substance.

The signs of addiction to a substance may include:

Unusual mood swings or erratic behavior
Neglect of personal responsibilities or duties to use a substance
Increased tolerance or desire for the substance
Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
Alcohol withdrawal when not consuming alcohol
Unsuccessful attempts to stop or control substance use
Interference with everyday activities or relationships
An excessive amount of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from substance intoxication
Risk-taking behaviors while under the influence of substance intoxication
Persistent desire to use the substance despite recognizing the harm substance intoxication causes

Causes

Substance intoxication occurs when an individual consumes a psychoactive substance in varying amounts. The causes can range from recreational use and self-medication to peer pressure or coping with the presence of mental health disorders like depression or anxiety. Risk factors may include:

History of early aggressive behavior
Lack of parental supervision
Substance experimentation at a young age
Genetics

Mental disorders often play a significant role in substance intoxication. Individuals with mental health disorders are more prone to substance-related problems as a method of coping with their symptoms.

The use of intoxicating substances to mask the symptoms of a mental health condition may lead to a dangerous cycle of substance intoxication and substance use as a method of coping, which increases the risk of developing an addiction to the substance. Intoxicating substance use can also worsen mental health disorders, leading to more severe symptoms and making treatment more challenging. In some cases, substance-induced disorders can occur, which trigger the onset of new psychiatric symptoms in individuals.

Recognizing how mental disorders and substance use are linked can be key to finding the right prevention strategies and treatment plans. Substance use, if not managed responsibly, can potentially lead to substance use disorders, also known as substance-related disorders. The American Psychiatric Association characterizes substance use disorders as an individual's inability to control their use of a particular intoxicating substance despite this substance intoxication having harmful and potentially life-threatening consequences.

A person may begin using a substance casually or occasionally. However, over time, they may require more of the substance to achieve the same intoxicating effect. As their substance consumption increases, they may find that they can no longer function daily without the intoxicating effects of the substance. Continued use of an intoxicating substance in this manner, disregarding the negative implications, may result in the development of a substance use disorder.

Treatments

Substance intoxication may not require treatment unless an individual has potentially overdosed, has severe symptoms, or is experiencing substance addiction. The goal of substance intoxication treatments is often to lessen the symptoms of substance withdrawal and help individuals gain more control over their decision-making and behavior patterns.

Therapy

Therapy can be a pivotal component in the treatment of individuals displaying signs of developing addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT),³ for example, may help individuals understand their addiction, identify causes for substance use, and develop coping strategies. This form of therapy facilitates a change in thought patterns, leading to healthier behaviors and decision making.

Motivational interviewing can strengthen an individual's motivation and commitment to change. Family therapy may also be beneficial for substance intoxication and substance use, as it helps the family understand the nature of substance addiction. Therapy often provides a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their substance addiction, gain insights, and work actively toward recovery from substance use.

In the context of substance intoxication, CBT may help individuals identify the inciting events that often lead to substance intoxication and can teach them to implement mindfulness and healthier coping strategies. Over time, consistent application of these treatment strategies may help individuals learn to be mindful of substance intoxication and avoid falling into a pattern that leads to substance addiction, such as alcohol, or other substances.

Medication

Medications for substance use and substance intoxication often focus on helping individuals overcome the withdrawal symptoms associated with substance addiction. However, there may be a few medications that can help people who struggle with substance intoxication addiction. For example, medications like Naltrexone or Buprenorphine may prevent cravings and block the effects of opioids if someone relapses.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be a crucial component in managing substance intoxication withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings in individuals recovering from substance intoxication addiction, depending on the substance. This approach, which combines medications with counseling and behavior therapies, is designed to provide a holistic and comprehensive substance use treatment pathway.

These medications, which must be prescribed by a healthcare provider, act on the same brain structures and processes as addictive substances, helping individuals reestablish normal brain function, block euphoric feelings associated with intoxication from the substance, and mitigate painful withdrawal symptoms from substance intoxication. However, medication alone can't overcome substance intoxication addiction. It can be most effective when combined with therapy and lifestyle changes.

Consult a medical doctor before starting, changing, or stopping a medication for any condition. The information in this article is not a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis.

The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content is providing generalized information, not specific for one individual. You should not take any action without consulting with a qualified medical professional.

Self-care

Self-care can play a pivotal role in the treatment of substance intoxication and the maintenance of a balanced mental health state. Physical self-care may involve regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest, helping the body recover and build resilience. Psychological and emotional self-care can also be crucial and involve activities that include meditation, journaling, or therapy, which may aid in understanding and managing emotions and improving mental clarity.

A well-rounded self-care routine often involves a combination of physical and psychological maintenance. Self-care may help individuals cultivate a healthy lifestyle and avoid the desire for reliance on substances or substance intoxication.

Resources

Resources for substance intoxication may include therapy and organizations dedicated to educating others on substance use.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) can be a valuable resource for individuals grappling with the early stages of substance intoxication and substance addiction. SAMHSA, a branch of the US Department of Health and Human Services, provides information on prevention, treatment, and recovery services for those struggling with intoxicating substance use and mental health disorders.

Other resources on unknown substance intoxication

In addition to SAMHSA, other educational resources are available online, such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), which offers extensive information on drug use and its effects on the brain, body, and behavior. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is another resource that provides treatment options, tools for recovery, and educational articles to help individuals understand the complexities of addiction.

For help with substance use, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Please see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

Research

According to a recent study, researchers have found that substance use and addiction are evolving and often change throughout the lifespan of an individual. In their study, researchers discovered that it can help to personalize and adapt treatment to each patient's unique biological and personal needs. They also cited the fact that cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective intervention due to its ability to address the changing circumstances of life that often lead to developing an addiction.

Another study aimed to determine the role that cognitive impairments because of substance intoxication may play in the development of treatment strategies. In the study, their team found that cognitive impairments are present in roughly one in three individuals who use certain substances, such as cannabis, stimulants, and opioids. They discuss the fact that it can be vital for treatment providers to screen for cognitive impairments and co-occurring mental health conditions while also taking into account what type of substance has been used to inform a comprehensive treatment strategy.

Statistics

Below are several statistics on other (or unknown) substance Intoxication:

46 million people, or 17% of the population, meet the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD).
Over 20% of Americans have an alcohol use disorder.
70% of individuals with SUD also have an alcohol addiction.
75% of individuals who seek addiction treatment experience positive results.

Associated terms

Updated on September 27, 2024.

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