What is Substance Abuse?
By Hanna Blankenship
What are substance abuse and substance dependence?
Substance abuse is the medical term used to describe a pattern of using a substance (drug) that causes significant problems or distress. When problems related to substance abuse are ignored and continued, one develops a substance dependence, making it even harder to quit.
According to a 2019/2020 National Survey on drug use and health…
Vermonters in all age groups drink alcohol at higher rates compared to the country overall.
The percentage of Vermonters age 12+ with illicit drug use disorder in the past year is consistently higher than the national average.
The percentage of Vermonters age 12+ who used cocaine in the past year is consistently higher than the national average.
Vermonters age 12+ were more likely to try marijuana for the first time than people age 12+ in other US states.
The percentage of Vermonters aged 12-17 who used marijuana in the past month is consistently higher than the national average.
Which substances are abused most often?
Nicotine
Alcohol
Marijuana
Cocaine
Opiates (morphine, codeine, etc)
Hallucinogens (Isd, mdma, etc)
Inhalants
Methamphetamine
Prescription medicines such as painkillers or anti-depressants
What causes or affects one’s chances of suffering from drug abuse or dependence?
Chemical changes in the brain
Biological makeup (gender, ethnicity, and overall mental health)
Physical and social environment (economic status, living conditions, family dynamics, early exposure to drugs, and parental guidance)
What are some common symptoms of drug abuse or dependence?
Engaging in risky behavior such as driving under the influence
Ignoring work, school, or home duties or commitments because of ongoing drug or alcohol use
Giving up or reducing activities such as hanging out with friends because of drug or alcohol use
Continually wanting but being unable to stop or cut back on drug or alcohol use
Needing to increase the amount of drug or alcohol to get the same desired effect
What are some treatment options?
Detoxification
Short and long-term treatment
Inpatient and outpatient care
Group support meetings
Individual or family therapy to address issues that may have impacted one’s substance abuse.
Reminder
Drug dependence and drug abuse look different for everyone. While we listed some of the common causes, symptoms, and treatment options, it is not a fully comprehensive list of all the possible answers. Each individual must connect with a licensed professional for a personalized treatment plan.