Substance Abuse

A Substance defined… Any item that is taken that alters Cognitive Emotional Physical abilities

Drugs Alcohol Over-the-counter medication Prescription medication

A lifelong physical and mental illness that manifests in craving or a strong desire or urge to use a specific substance using the substance over a longer period than intended a need for increased amounts of the substance to achieve a desired effect characteristic withdrawal syndrome for the substance a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use a great deal of time spent in activities to obtain the substance, use the substance, or recover from its effects failure to meet/fulfil obligations persisting in situations that are physically hazardous recurrent social or interpersonal problems giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities

1995 NASA Study on the Effect of Drugs on a Garden Spider

Before And After

Are certain personalities more prone towards addiction? no single personality trait some common characteristics: impulsive “thrill-seekers” poor impulse control low frustration tolerance non-conformist insecure sensitive reactions to stress low self-esteem anti-social personality traits

All in the family… can the pattern be broken? multiple factors determine drug abuse, many completely separate from genetic make-up healthy coping mechanisms for stressors (eg. hobbies or exercise) replace negative coping strategies communicating feelings in a healthy way from a young age helps one cope with emotional distress