Alcohol & Substance Use Support

Your privacy is protected by law when you use our Employee Assistance Program. Participation is confidential, and information is only shared with your written consent or when required by law. Our licensed psychologists are committed to safeguarding your privacy.
Learn more about EAP confidentiality.

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Understanding Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder involves a range of behaviors, from misuse to abuse or dependency, and can affect individuals using alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs. This disorder may lead to significant emotional, physical, financial, and legal consequences.

Recognizing the Signs of Substance Use Disorder

Common signs include:

  • Using a substance more or longer than intended
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop
  • Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use
  • Experiencing strong cravings or urges to use
  • Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
  • Continuing use despite relationship problems
  • Abandoning important activities in favor of substance use
  • Engaging in risky situations during or after use
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, irritability, nausea, or vomiting) when not using

Alcohol Use Guidelines

High-Risk Drinking Levels (NIAAA)

  • Women: More than 3 drinks per day and/or 7 drinks per week
  • Men: More than 4 drinks per day and/or 14 drinks per week
  • Adults 65+: More than 1 drink per day and/or 7 drinks per week

Problems can occur even within these limits, especially if drinking rapidly or if you have other health concerns.

What is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking is a pattern that raises blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to above 0.08 g/dl in a single sitting. Short-term effects can include impaired judgment, nausea, vomiting, blackouts, and accidents. Long-term risks include liver disease, pancreatitis, cardiovascular problems, certain cancers, and increased likelihood of developing an alcohol use disorder.

Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drugs are the third most commonly abused substances, after alcohol and marijuana. Addiction risk increases when drugs are:

  • Used in a way not intended by the prescriber
  • Taken by someone other than the person prescribed
  • Consumed in higher doses than prescribed

Commonly Abused Prescription Medications:

  • Pain relievers
  • Tranquilizers and sedatives
  • Stimulants

Support & Resources

If you or a loved one is facing challenges with alcohol or substance use, several support options are available to help you get the assistance you need.

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers evaluation, referrals, and support for employees and their dependent family members seeking help for alcohol or substance use problems.
  • Health Insurance Benefits: Health insurance plans cover substance abuse treatment and can be accessed directly without contacting EAP.
  • Off-Site Resources: Community and online resources are available for confidential support and treatment.

Local Resources

Fremont Hospital Chemical Dependency Programs
(510) 796-1100
39001 Sundale Drive
Fremont, CA 94538
Kaiser Oakland CDRP
(510) 251-0121
969 Broadway, 2nd Floor
Oakland, CA 94607
John Muir Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services
(925) 674-4100
2740 Grant Street
Concord, CA 94520
Kaiser Walnut Creek CDRP
(925) 295-4145
710 S. Broadway, Suite 300
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Kaiser Manteca CDRP
(209) 858-7700
1789 W. Yosemite Ave
Manteca, CA 95337
Axis Community Health (D&A)
(925) 462-1755
Adult: 446 Lindbergh Ave, Livermore, CA
Teen: 6666 Owens Drive, Pleasanton, CA
Alcoholics Anonymous