Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes.  The use of illicit drugs or the abuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs for purposes other than those for which they are indicated or in a manner or in quantities other than directed may be considered abuse.

Illegal drugs are not the only substances that can be abused.  Alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications, inhalants and solvents, and even coffee and cigarettes, can all be used to the point of harm and excess.  Point of fact, almost any substance can be abused.

Substance abuse affects an estimated 25 million Americans and an additional 40 million people if you count those injured or killed by intoxicated or impaired drivers and the families affected by this disease.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease and an estimated 12.5 million Americans are addicted to other drugs such as sedative-hypnotics or barbiturates, opiates, sedatives, hallucinogens, and other drugs.

There are many symptoms and warning signs of substance abuse including, but not limited to:

• using the substance on a regular basis (daily, weekends or in binges)
• tolerance for the substance
• failed attempts to stop using the substance
• physical and/or psychological dependence
• withdrawal symptoms (delirium tremens, trembling, hallucinations, sweating and high blood pressure)

Substance abuse can be a product of hereditary, environment, or social factors. Treatment involves therapy, abstinence, and the guidance and assistance of support groups.

For more information about substance abuse, visit:
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/substance-abuse