What is Substance Abuse?By Michaela Weaver

Introduction: What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse is a term that encompasses the use of any substance that results in physical, psychological, and/or social harm. Many different types of substances can be abused, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, illicit drugs such as heroin and cocaine, and alcohol. Alcohol abuse is the most common form of substance abuse in this country; yet it remains an underreported problem due to the stigma associated with addiction.

Substance abuse can affect the person’s physical and mental health and can put them at risk of becoming dependent on substances.

Causes: What are the causes of substance abuse?

The causes of substance abuse span a wide range, from genetic predispositions to environmental factors. One study showed that those who had a parent who abused drugs or alcohol were much more likely to turn to substance abuse themselves. Another aspect of the situation is income level, as those who come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are much more likely to develop a dependence on substances as a way out from their struggles. Other factors include genetics, peer pressure and negative coping mechanisms. Prevention: What are the ways to prevent substance abuse?

Effects: What are the effects of substance abuse?

The effects of substance abuse can be detrimental to an individual’s mental and physical wellbeing. Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco are the most common substances abused by adults in Western civilization. The addiction to substances often starts when individuals are young, around 16 years old. Individuals who start drinking at this age are three times more likely to develop alcohol dependency than those who start drinking later in life.

Addiction: What is the difference between substance abuse and addiction?

Substance abuse is the use of substances, such as drugs or alcohol, to the point of physical or emotional impairment. When this behavior becomes habitual it can be classified as addiction. Alcohol dependency is an example of substance abuse that has been recognized in the medical community for centuries.

Consequences: What are the consequences of substance abuse?

Many people think substance abuse is harmless and/or they don’t see it as a problem. However, many people struggle with substance abuse and don’t even know it. It can cause problems in school, relationships, or job performance. Substance abusers can also put themselves at risk for developing other mental health concerns like depression or anxiety. Some substances are more dangerous than others, but there are always consequences to abusing any substance including legal consequences like jail time.

Treatment: What are some of the methods of treatment of substance abuse?

Treatment is the use of specific interventions to help people recover from the problems associated with a substance use disorder. In general, these interventions include:

• Psychosocial treatments. These types of treatments focus on the entire person (body, mind, and spirit) and address the whole person’s needs.
• Psychological treatments. These treatments focus on the way people think, feel, and act.
• Medications. Medications are used to treat certain conditions like depression and anxiety.
• Counseling. Counseling helps people better understand their problems and cope with them.

The first step in prevention is recognizing the problem. Substance abuse is a critical issue facing the United States. It is a public health problem that involves the use of any licit or illicit drug, including alcohol, tobacco products and prescription drugs to an extent that it harms one’s health, social life or relationships. Thousands of Americans are arrested for substance abuse each year and tens of thousands die from overdoses.