Substance Abuse: Definition and Overview
Substance abuse refers to a condition characterized by the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It entails a pattern of behavior where individuals consume substances in a way that leads to significant impairment or distress. This can manifest in various forms, such as failing to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home, engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence, and developing tolerance or withdrawal symptoms.
Substance abuse is often seen as part of a broader spectrum of substance use disorders, which include mild to severe disorders based on the degree of impact on the individual's life. It can lead to serious health issues, including addiction, physical health complications, and psychological disorders. Effective treatment typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy, counseling, and in some cases, medication.
Bibliography
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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.
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World Health Organization. (2018). Substance use and substance use disorders. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/substance-use-and-substance-use-disorders
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National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Is marijuana a gateway drug? Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-gateway-drug
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National Institutes of Health. (2017). What is substance use disorder? Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-disorder
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Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2012). Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.
These sources provide in-depth information on the definitions, implications, and treatment of substance abuse and related disorders.
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