Understanding the Difference between SUD and AUD

 

Introduction

In recent years, awareness around mental health and addiction has grown, yet many people still struggle to differentiate between various forms of substance-related disorders. Two terms that are often confused are Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). While related, they are distinct conditions with different clinical definitions, causes, and treatment approaches. Both SUD and AUD can significantly affect a person’s emotional and psychological well-being, often leading to issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Understanding the difference between SUD and AUD is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and recovery. This blog explores these differences while also highlighting the role of therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and online counselling in managing these conditions.

 

What is Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

Substance Use Disorder refers to a complex condition in which there is an uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. These substances can include opioids, stimulants, cannabis, hallucinogens, prescription medications, or other drugs. Individuals with SUD often exhibit a range of behaviors such as compulsive drug seeking, inability to control consumption, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. SUD is not simply a matter of poor decision-making; it is a diagnosable mental health condition that affects the brain’s reward system. Chronic substance use may be a coping mechanism for unresolved trauma, severe stress, or emotional pain. It is also common for individuals with SUD to experience co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

 

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol Use Disorder, while technically a type of SUD, is categorised separately due to the unique societal, legal, and physiological issues associated with alcohol. AUD involves problematic drinking that becomes severe and persistent, leading to significant distress or impairment. Symptoms may include drinking more than intended, failed attempts to cut down, continued alcohol use despite social or physical problems, and withdrawal symptoms. Because alcohol is widely accepted in social settings, AUD can often be normalised or overlooked until it becomes severe. People suffering from AUD may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with stress, social anxiety, or emotional exhaustion. Over time, this coping mechanism may backfire, intensifying the very symptoms it was intended to relieve.

 

Mental Health Implications of SUD and AUD

Both SUD and AUD have profound implications for mental health. People with these disorders are more likely to experience chronic stress, mood disorders, trauma, and suicidal ideation. For instance, continued substance or alcohol use often contributes to a cycle of guilt, shame, and failure, which can significantly lower self-esteem and reinforce patterns of self-destructive behaviour. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms can intensify anxiety and depression, creating a reinforcing loop of emotional instability. Individuals often use substances or alcohol to numb their emotional pain or escape from difficult life situations. However, these temporary escapes usually result in long-term psychological consequences that further entrench the disorder.

 

Treatment Approaches: Therapy, CBT, and Online Counselling

One of the most widely used and evidence-based methods is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to substance or alcohol use. For example, someone who believes “I can’t handle stress without drinking” learns to challenge and replace that thought with healthier coping mechanisms. CBT is also beneficial in addressing co-occurring issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-worth.

 

Therapy in general, whether individual, group, or family-based, offers a safe space for individuals to explore underlying issues, process trauma, and build emotional resilience. Trauma-informed therapy is especially important for individuals whose substance use is rooted in adverse childhood experiences or abuse. It focuses on helping clients feel safe, empowered, and in control of their recovery process.

 

Online counselling platforms like TalktoAngel have made therapy more accessible, especially for individuals who feel stigmatised or hesitant about seeking in-person treatment. Online counselling offers privacy, flexibility, and continuity of care, making it easier for people with busy schedules or those in remote areas to receive professional support. It also allows for integration of multiple treatment modalities, including CBT, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing, all of which can be tailored to individual needs.

 

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Although AUD is a form of SUD, differentiating the two is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. AUD requires a specific focus on behaviours, health risks, and social factors associated with alcohol consumption. In contrast, SUD may involve a wide range of substances, each with unique withdrawal symptoms, triggers, and recovery timelines. Knowing whether a person is dealing with alcohol or another substance helps mental health professionals develop more targeted treatment plans. For instance, medical detoxification protocols differ between alcohol and opioids, and relapse prevention strategies may vary accordingly.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between SUD (Substance Use Disorder) and AUD (Alcohol Use Disorder) is critical for effective treatment, prevention, and long-term mental health support. Both conditions involve complex emotional and psychological challenges—such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and social isolation, that can deeply affect daily functioning and relationships. Recognising the signs early, seeking timely professional help, and accessing evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and addiction counselling can pave the way toward lasting recovery.

 

If you are searching for the best psychologist near me to support yourself or a loved one dealing with substance or alcohol use issues, know that taking the first step is often the most powerful. Centres like Psychowellness Center in Janakpuri and Dwarka Sector-17, Delhi, provide specialised care in addiction therapy, emotional regulation, and behavioural treatment. Prefer privacy or flexibility? TalktoAngel provides safe virtual consultations with licensed psychologists throughout India. Call 011-47039812 or 7827208707 today to begin your journey toward clarity, healing, and recovery.

 

Dr. R.K. Suri, a clinical psychologist, and Ms. Nancy Singh, a counselling psychologist, share expert guidance on strengthening relationship satisfaction, developing effective communication skills, and promoting emotional well-being to build deeper, lasting bonds.

 

Posted on 18 August 2025

 

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

TalktoAngel. (n.d.). Online therapy for addiction and substance use. https://www.talktoangel.com/

https://www.psychowellnesscenter.com/service-substance-abuse-management-counselling-delhi/

https://www.psychowellnesscenter.com/service-addiction-counselling-delhi/