Understanding Addiction and Substance Use Disorders

Addiction

Chronic brain disease affecting decision-making and emotions.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Condition characterized by compulsive substance use despite harm.

Harm Reduction

Strategies to minimize negative health impacts of drug use.

CIWA

Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for alcohol withdrawal.

Controlled Substances Act

1970 law regulating drug schedules and use.

Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)

Federal agency enforcing controlled substances regulations.

Fentanyl

Potent synthetic opioid linked to overdose deaths.

Methadone

Schedule II medication for opioid use disorder treatment.

Stigma

Negative perception affecting treatment access for users.

Syringe Services Programs (SSPs)

Programs providing sterile syringes and disposal services.

Opioid Overdose

Life-threatening condition from excessive opioid consumption.

War on Drugs

Campaign initiated to combat drug abuse and trafficking.

Anti-Drug Abuse Act

1986 legislation establishing mandatory minimum sentences.

Injection Drug Users (IDUs)

Individuals using drugs via injection methods.

Naloxone

Medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

Safe Injection Kits

Supplies to reduce risks associated with drug injection.

Syringe Exchange Programs

Initiatives allowing exchange of used syringes for sterile ones.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a serious infection.

Substance Misuse

Improper use of substances leading to harmful consequences.

Dependence

Physical or psychological reliance on a substance.

DSM-V Criteria

Standardized criteria for diagnosing substance use disorders.

Chronic Brain Disease

Long-term condition affecting brain's reward and decision systems.

Risk Factors

Characteristics increasing likelihood of developing SUD.

Support Services

Resources aiding individuals in recovery from addiction.

Public Health Approach

Strategy focusing on health outcomes rather than punishment.

Addiction Complexity

Addiction involves multiple factors including genetics and environment.

Substance Seeking

Behavior driven by the desire to obtain drugs.

Emotional Regulation

Ability to manage and respond to emotional experiences.