Drug abuse characterized by impairment in occupational or social functioning caused by a pattern of long-term pathological use.
The misuse or excessive use of drugs, alcohol or other substances for pleasure or to satisfy addiction, which often causes health, emotional or social problems for the user.
A general term encompassing alcohol abuse, drug abuse, solvent abuse, and sometimes smoking.
A maladaptive pattern of behavior marked by the use of chemically active agents (e.g., prescription or illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco). Of all deaths in the U.S. each year, half are caused by substance abuse. Substance abuse is pervasive. About 33% of all Americans smoke cigarettes, 6% use illicit drugs regularly, and about 14% of all Americans are alcoholics. The consequences of substance abuse include heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic obstructive lung disease, cirrhosis, trauma, and familial, social, legal, and economic difficulties.
Use of a substance even though the substance is harmful to the user or to the people around the user.
The utilization of medications or other substances with intentions differing from their prescribed purposes, often to induce intoxication or modify emotions. Frequently abused substances include stimulant drugs, solvents, and adhesive substances. Issues can emerge from unfavorable reactions or the addictive nature of the substance, leading to potential dependencies.