Substance abuse refers to the excessive or harmful use of drugs or alcohol. This can include using drugs or alcohol in a way that interferes with daily life, causes harm to oneself or others, or leads to addiction.
Here are some common signs and symptoms of substance abuse:
- Changes in behavior, such as being more withdrawn, secretive, or irritable
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Engaging in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence or having unprotected sex
- Continuing to use drugs or alcohol despite negative consequences
- Developing a tolerance to the substance and needing more to achieve the desired effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance, such as shaking, sweating, and nausea
- Spending a lot of time and money on acquiring and using the substance.
Substance abuse can have serious negative consequences for both physical and mental health, including addiction, overdose, liver and heart disease, depression, anxiety, and memory problems.
Treatment for substance abuse may involve a combination of counseling, medication, and support groups to help manage cravings, reduce the risk of relapse, and address underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, it is important to seek professional help.
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