Substance abuse can be defined as a dependence or addiction to substances such as drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. Many people who use these substances use them in small quantities and can stop at any time. A substance abuse disorder is when the use of alcohol or drugs becomes compulsive or dangerous. It is an illness that can affect anyone, regardless of income, gender, age, or ethnicity.
According to the national institute on drug abuse “addiction is a chronic, often relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences to the individual who is addicted and to those around them. Drug addiction is a brain disease because the abuse of drugs leads to changes in the structure and function of the brain. Although it is true that for most people the initial decision to take drugs is voluntary, over time the changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse can affect a person’s self control and ability to make sound decisions, and at the same time send intense impulses to take drugs.”
There are a number of symptoms of substance abuse. The first is continued use of drugs or alcohol despite experiencing negative consequences. Other symptoms are:
- Tolerance-needing increasingly larger amounts of the substance to get the same level of high
- Craving-a strong need, desire, or urge to use drugs or alcohol
- Loss of control-drinking or taking more alcohol or drugs than planned
- Physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped
Substance abuse is treatable and can be managed. There are many approaches to treatment. Information on these can be found at the substance abuse and mental health services administration.
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