Missbruket

Missbruket is a Swedish term commonly used to refer to substance misuse or abuse, particularly of alcohol or illegal drugs. In Swedish public health and social policy, missbruket is considered a complex condition characterized by compulsive use despite harmful consequences and by chronic, relapsing patterns. The term also covers related problematic behaviors such as gambling or prescription drug misuse, though in practice more specific terms are used for those cases.

Causes are multi-factorial, including genetics, neurobiology, early life experiences, mental health comorbidity, and social determinants such as poverty, housing, and social support. Consequences include physical and mental health problems, accidents, dependency, family disruption, unemployment, and stigmatization.

Prevention and treatment emphasize early identification through screening, brief interventions in healthcare and social services, and a range of treatments including psychosocial therapies, rehabilitation, and medication-assisted treatment where appropriate. Harm reduction approaches aim to minimize health risks for people who use substances, while social and legal policies shape access to care, policing, and rehabilitation.

Variations in prevalence and policy exist across countries, but in Sweden and other Nordic countries there is a strong emphasis on public health, prevention, and social support as part of a comprehensive approach to missbruket.

Notes: The term “Missbruket” may also appear as a title for works (films, books) focusing on substance abuse, reflecting its cultural resonance, but this article focuses on the concept as a public health and social issue.