Substance-Related Disorders

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to substance-related disorders, useful for exam preparation.

Substance

A drug of abuse, a medication, or a toxin.

Substance use

Ingestion of any chemical that affects the body.

Abused substances

Chemicals that alter the individual’s perception by affecting the central nervous system (CNS).

Substance (drug) abuse

Excessive use of a substance that differs from societal norms.

Habituation

An individual depends on a substance to provide pleasure or relief.

Substance (chemical) dependency

A user must take the usual dose of the drug to prevent the onset of withdrawal signs and symptoms.

Addiction

An individual’s dependence on the substance is physical.

Abstinence

An addicted individual is not using an addictive substance.

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)

A condition resulting from excessive alcohol use during pregnancy, leading to developmental issues.

Dual diagnosis

Refers to individuals with serious mental illness who are also addicted to or use chemicals.

CNS depressants

Substances that slow down brain activity and can lead to reduced coordination and mental functions.

Tolerance

A physiological state where increasing amounts of a substance are required to achieve the same effect.

Relapse

The recurrence of substance-abusing behaviors after a significant period of abstinence.

Narcotics

CNS depressants that occur naturally or are synthesized; includes opium and morphine.

Hallucinogens

Substances that alter one’s perception of reality, which can be natural or synthetic.

Inhalants

Volatile substances or chemical gases inhaled for their effects, associated with significant health complications.

Environmental theories

Theories that suggest substance abuse may be influenced by the individual's environment and sociocultural surroundings.

Psychiatric models

Frameworks that view substance abuse as an expression of underlying emotional conflict or mental disorder.

Disease model

Views substance abuse as a disease that should be treated accordingly.