substanceabuse
Substance abuse refers to the harmful or problematic pattern of using psychoactive substances, including alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription medications, that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress. In many clinical and public health contexts, substance abuse is described using criteria that include excessive use, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down, neglect of major responsibilities, and continued use despite social or interpersonal problems. The term is often used interchangeably with substance use disorder, which under DSM-5-TR is characterized by a problematic pattern of use with at least two of eleven criteria occurring within a 12-month period.
Substance use disorders affect people across ages and settings. Risk factors include genetic susceptibility, early exposure,
Common targets are alcohol, opioids, cannabis, stimulants, sedatives, and prescription medications when misused. Some individuals experience
Health consequences include injuries, infectious diseases, cardiovascular and liver conditions, mental health disorders, and overdose. Social
Assessment uses screening tools such as AUDIT or CAGE, plus clinical interviews and, when indicated, laboratory
Prevention and policy emphasize harm reduction, education, early intervention, and reducing stigma. Public health approaches include