Substance abuse implies the habit of excessive and undue use of harmful substances, like alcohol and drugs. Some terms associated with substance abuse are – substance misuse; drug addiction and alcohol use. Substance abuse could be due to sniffing, inhaling, swallowing, drinking, smoking or injecting. The use of psychoactive substances can bring changes and variations in mood, alter the frame of mind and lead to dependence syndrome. Substance abuse thus has a detrimental impact on the mental health of the person indulging in it.

Reasons for substance abuse may vary in accordance to the situations and contexts. Curiosity, urge towards experimentation, peer influence, family problems, depression etc are the most common reasons behind substance abuse. The use and subsequent abuse of addictive substances not only affect individual behavior but also create burden on the society due to increased social and economic costs on account of prolonged healthcare, absenteeism from work place, and loss of productive man days.

These harmful substances are generally classified into three broad categories including:

1. Opiates: Heroin, Morphine and Opium belong to this group. The usage of opiates leads to a state of tranquility and ecstasy.

2. Amphetamines: Cocaine, Nicotine, Ecstasy and Speed are amphetamines. These drugs are essentially used for stimulation of nervous system

3. Downers: Alcohol and Barbiturates belong to this category. Downers are basically depressants.

According to the World Drug Report 2008, there are 165.5 million users of cannabis products. 24.7 million People use amphetamines; 16 million use cocaine and 12 million uses Heroin.Substance abuse can cause health problems such as liver disease, lung disease, heart disease, vitamin deficiencies, and brain damage. Use and abuse of addictive substances can also lead to conditions such as HIV/ AIDS or hepatitis, which are transmitted through shared, dirty needles. Overdoses of certain substances can even lead to death. Some social consequences of substance abuse are damage to work, family, and personal relationships.

Treatment of substance abuse depends upon the person undergoing treatment and the substance/s being taken. Treatment programs for substance abuse should also take into consideration the possibility of relapse due to constant craving by the person who is undergoing treatment. Treatment strategies include behavioral treatment, counseling and medication.

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