Substance abuse is the harmful use of “psychoactive” substances, including alcohol and drugs. These substances lead to dependence that damages both the body and mind, creating an addiction. The chemicals contained in drugs and related substances alter the way the brain’s communication system works, disrupting the way nerve cells send, receive and process information. Drug use essentially “rewires” the brain, making substance addiction difficult to break. That’s why quitting and recovering takes more than just sheer willpower or self-control.
What is Substance Abuse?