What is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse, also known as substance use disorder, is a medical term used to describe the pattern of using substances (drugs) that causes significant problems or distress. It encompasses the use of illegal substances like marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, as well as the misuse of legal substances like alcohol, nicotine, or prescription medicines. Substance […]
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that encompasses alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and alcoholism. It is characterized by the impaired ability to control or stop alcohol use despite negative consequences. Individuals with AUD experience lasting changes in the brain caused by alcohol misuse, which make them vulnerable to relapse. Evidence-based treatment […]
What is Benzodiazepine Use Disorder?
Benzodiazepine use disorder, also known as benzodiazepine addiction or abuse, refers to the misuse of benzodiazepines without a prescription or for recreational purposes. This behavior poses risks of dependence, withdrawal, and other long-term effects. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety and insomnia but can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Misuse of benzodiazepines can be […]
What is Stimulant Use Disorder?
Stimulant Use Disorder refers to the continued use of stimulants despite the harm they cause to the user. Stimulants can include cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and prescription drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. Misuse of these stimulants can lead to various side effects, such as elevated heart rate, dilated pupils, increased blood pressure, sweating or chills, […]