What is substance abuse or dependence?
Substance abuse (alcohol or other drugs)
Substance abuse is a recognized health disorder. It refers to the abuse of illegal or legal substances. Alcohol is the most common legal drug of abuse. Substance abuse causes serious problems at work, school, in relationships, and with the law.
Substances that are often abused include:
- Alcohol
- Marijuana
- Tobacco
- Prescription drugs, such as pain pills, stimulants, or anxiety pills
- Methamphetamine
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Anabolic steroids
- Hallucinogens
- Inhalants
Substance (drug) dependence
Substance dependence describes abuse of drugs or alcohol that continues, even when serious problems related to their use have developed. Signs of dependence include:
- You need more of the drug to get an effect.
- You have withdrawal symptoms if you decrease or stop using the drug.
- You spend a lot of time getting, using, and recovering from the effects of using drugs.
- You withdraw from social and recreational activities.
- You keep using the drug even though you are aware of the physical, psychological, and family or social problems that are caused by your ongoing abuse.
What causes substance abuse or dependence?
The cause of substance abuse and dependence is unclear. It probably involves a mix of genetics, environment and emotional factors. However, while the first use of drugs or alcohol is voluntary, continued use quickly changes how the brain feels pleasure. Using drugs repeatedly changes the structure of the brain so that a person no longer has control. Substance abuse is a disease that results in the compulsive need for the drug.
What are the symptoms of substance abuse or dependence?
The following are the most common behaviors that signal you have a problem with drug or alcohol abuse:
- You get high on drugs or get drunk on a regular basis
- You lie, especially about how much you are using or drinking
- You avoid friends and family members
- You have given up activities you used to enjoy, such as sports or spending time with non-using friends
- You talk or think a lot about using drugs or alcohol
- You believe you need to use or drink to have fun
- You pressure others to use or drink
- You get in trouble with the law
- You take risks, such as sexual risks or driving under the influence of a substance
- Your work performance suffers due to substance abuse before, after, or during working or business hours
- You miss work due to substance use
- You feel depressed, hopeless, or suicidal feelings
The symptoms of drug or alcohol abuse may look like other medical problems or mental health conditions. Always consult your health care provider for a diagnosis.
How is substance abuse or dependence diagnosed?
A family doctor, health care provider, psychiatrist, or qualified mental health professional can diagnose substance abuse. Depending on the substance abused, the frequency of use, and the length of time since last used, your doctor may note the following:
- Weight loss
- Constant fatigue
- Red eyes
- Little concern for hygiene
- Unexpected problems in heart rate or blood pressure
- Depression, anxiety, or sleep problems
How is substance abuse or dependence treated?
Your health care provider will figure out the best treatment for you based on:
- How old you are
- Your overall health and medical history
- How sick you are
- How well you can handle specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- How long the condition is expected to last
- Your opinion or preference
Treatment for drug addiction is serious and complex. People who are addicted can’t simply stop using. Treatment programs involve many different components. You can take part in inpatient or outpatient treatment programs for substance abuse. Programs are usually based on the type of substance abused. Programs include:
- Detoxification, if needed
- Medications for withdrawal, to lessen cravings, and to restore normal brain function
- Behavioral therapy
- Long-term medical follow-up and support
- Counseling for both you and any family affected
What are the complications of substance abuse or dependence?
Complications of drug abuse or dependence vary depending of the drug or substance being used. They may include:
- Liver damage
- Heart damage
- Increased risk for infections such as HIV and other sexually transmitted infections
- Pneumonia
- Tuberculosis
- Injuries for yourself or others
- Weight loss
- Sleep disturbances
- Sexual dysfunction
- Depression
- Thoughts of suicide
- Anxiety
- Psychosis
Can substance abuse or dependence be prevented?
There are many things you can do to prevent substance abuse or dependence in your home and community, including:
- Follow alcohol and drug control laws and policies. This includes maintaining the age 21 minimum legal drinking age and prohibiting the sale of alcohol to intoxicated persons.
- Empower young people not to drink or use other drugs.
- Store prescription medicine safely. Properly dispose of any medications. Do not share prescription drugs with others.
Key points about substance abuse or dependence
- Substance abuse is recognized health disorder that refers to the abuse of illegal or legal substances.
- Substance abuse causes serious problems at work, school, in relationships and with the law.
- Substance dependence describes the abuse of drugs or alcohol that continues, even when serious problems related to their use have developed.
- There are many different treatment programs for substance abuse. You may seek inpatient or outpatient help.
Next steps
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your health care provider:
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
- At the visit, write down the names of new medicines, treatments, or tests, and any new instructions your provider gives you.
- If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.
