Frequently Asked Questions

SUD General

What is a Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder (SUD) is an intricate condition where an individual's substance use circumstance may vary from one another.

Substance use is a spectrum ranging from beneficial use to dependency. Usually SUDs are either problematic, or on a slippery slope to becoming problematic.

How do I know if SUD Applies to me?

Four common symptoms of problematic substance use include:

Cravings
Loss of control of amount or frequency
Compulsion to use
Continued use despite consequences

SUDs are increasingly common.

There is a stigma around SUDs. This being said, a multitude of individuals who suffer from substance use related issues won’t seek help.

The DSM-5 criteria for SUD involves overall aspects of substance use, including abuse and dependency.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, it can be beneficial to seek support.

Tip: If you or someone you know struggles with substance use, try to provide non-judgmental support, as addiction/SUD is much deeper than just a choice.

SUDs Clinic

Cost

SUDS clinic appointments (Dr. and counseling) are covered by OHIP. Medication costs depend on a patient's insurance coverage.

What treatment does SUDS Clinic provide?

SUDS Clinic provides a holistic treatment method towards SUDs. An individual can meet with our team of Doctors and be assessed. Depending on the patient, our Doctors can then recommend a treatment plan. Our clinic treats illicit and non-illicit drug use.

Here at SUDS Clinic, we treat all patients with care and respect as we understand that addiction is often a concurrent situation that results in problematic use and lifestyle.

Our positive team provides unconditional support, with the patients health and safety as our primary concern.

What do treatment plans consist of?

Education on substance and use
Harm reduction Supplies and strategies
Diagnosis
Medication
Counseling
Referrals
Regular weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly follow ups

What does an appointment look like

Appointments are typically scheduled weekly. Our clinics are open Monday-Saturday to create flexible availability for our patients.

SUDS Clinic team works with patients to guide them towards their ideal lifestyle. Appointments with our Doctors cover related health concerns and prescriptions, while our addiction counselors cover mental health and wellness

Is SUDS Clinic confidential?

SUDS Clinic patients' involvement is kept confidential. Patients at SUDS Clinic are protected under the PHIPA Act. This being said, please contact the clinic directly or go to www.health.gov.on.ca For more information.

I’m hesitant towards reaching out for help? What should I do?

We understand that there is a stigma around reaching out for help with substance use related concerns. No one would shame a diabetic individual for seeking help, just like we don’t shame individuals struggling with substance use.

Addiction and SUD are treatable!

Patient benefits:

Increased stability
Increased emotional awareness
Treatment for legal and illegal substance use
Increased education on substance use

How to reach out

If you are curious to know more, there are a few ways to reach out to our clinic. Please visit our contact section for all our clinic information.

There is an online referral option where you are able to submit your information, and one of our team members will reach out to you with more information.

SUDS Clinic appointments are covered by OHIP.

Someone I care about could benefit from SUDS Clinic, what should I do?

Express your concern
Don't be forceful
Don't be judgemental
Create a safe space
Actively Listen
Understand that not everyone is ready to make this next step in their journey
- Simply provide our clinic information to your loved one, and when they are ready they can reach out
- You cannot force anyone to do anything

Still Have Unanswered Questions?

We're here to help.