Addiction treatment specialists use the term “substance abuse” a lot. If you are just looking into drug and alcohol problems, you could be wondering whether or not there is a substance abuse definition. Is there a series of signs or attributes that define substance abuse, or is it an umbrella term for people who misuse drugs or alcohol? The truth is, there is a proper definition of substance abuse, and if you learn what it is, you have a chance to save yourself or someone you love from substance abuse problems before they grow worse. Finding substance abuse treatment can ensure that you or your loved one can make a full recovery and see a better tomorrow.
What Is The Substance Abuse Definition?
Substance abuse was a term used in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. In 2013, though, the term substance abuse got replaced with substance use disorder. Both are defined as the repeated use of alcohol or drugs in a way that causes significant functional or clinical impairments. The impairments can include disability, health problems, and the inability to accomplish major responsibilities at home, school, or work.
The Signs And Symptoms Included In The Substance Abuse Definition
People who struggle with substance abuse go through similar patterns over time. The pattern starts with the user taking their chosen substance in larger quantities or for longer than they intended. Then they may try to cut down their intake but fail. From there, the user will cut down on his or her time doing necessary or fun activities in order to obtain and use the substance they have chosen. This can cause them to experience cravings and use in increasingly dangerous amounts and situations.
Over time, the user will develop a drug or alcohol dependence and tolerance. As a result, they will need more of the substance to feel the effects. They are looking for the same response or high they did the first time they used it. This tolerance can eventually lead to an overdose, as people will take more than their body can handle in order to feel the same effects.
Withdrawal symptoms will also develop over extended periods of substance abuse. Withdrawal symptoms will vary from person to person. These symptoms can begin within hours after the last dose. It ultimately depends on their bodies, what substance they are using, how long they have been using it, and how much is taken at once. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can be lethal in some cases. In order to avoid withdrawal symptoms, people will continue their drug use even if they encounter consequences for continuing their drug or alcohol intake.
Seeing Signs Of Substance Abuse Definition Can Be The Beginning Of Recovery
If you see the signs of substance abuse in you or someone you love, you do not have to be afraid. Substance abuse is treatable. It is best to start your treatment with detox. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery, we specialize in helping people start their substance abuse treatment. We provide safe medical detox to anyone ready to start their recovery right. We help our clients through the pains of withdrawal and prepare them for the next stages of treatment. In addition, we offer a number of addiction therapy programs. These programs include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
- EMDR Therapy Program
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy
- Trauma Therapy Program
Do not let substance abuse define you. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is just a phone call away. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866.516.8356 to learn more about the programs we offer.
