Substance abuse

Substance Abuse

The risky and harmful use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs.

Psychoactive Drugs

Substances that, when taken, affect mental processes, distort perception, and alter mood or behavior.

Stimulants

Drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system, often reversing fatigue and elevating mood; examples include nicotine and caffeine.

Depressants

Substances that slow down bodily functions and the central nervous system, commonly used to induce sleep or sedation; examples include barbiturates and alcohol.

Hallucinogens

Drugs that cause sensory distortions, leading users to see or hear things that aren't present; examples include LSD and psilocybin.

Antidepressants

Psychiatric medications used to alleviate symptoms of depressive disorders by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain.

Antipsychotics

Medications primarily used to manage psychosis, such as delusions and hallucinations, especially in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Addiction

A chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences.

Physical Dependence

A state where the body adapts to the presence of a drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms when drug concentration falls.

Tolerance

The need for an increased amount of a drug to achieve the desired effect due to the body's adaptation to the drug.

Withdrawal

A group of symptoms that occur upon abrupt removal or significant decrease of a drug, typically opposite to the effects of intoxication.

Psychological Dependence

A condition where stopping a drug leads to emotional and mental symptoms, including cravings and preoccupation with the drug.

Harm in Addiction

Concept involving various types of harm due to substance abuse, including physical, psychological, social, and spiritual effects.

Factors Influencing Addiction

Biochemical, biological, personal, and environmental factors that affect an individual’s potential for drug abuse/addiction.

Signs of Teen Drug Abuse

Indicators such as poor grades, bloodshot eyes, and secretive behavior that may suggest substance use among teens.

Methods of Treatment for Substance Use

Various approaches used to help individuals struggling with substance use disorders, including therapy and medications.

Canadian Substance Use Statistics

Data that shows significant substance use treatment trends, including demographic information and frequency of substance use.