It really is a simple question. While the answer might seem to be complicated, it really isn't that difficult to understand. What is substance abuse? Before anyone is going to be willing to get help for an addiction, it would seem that having an answer to that particular question would make the whole notion one needs help much easier to accept.
What is Substance Abuse?
For anyone who might require a dictionary type definition of substance abuse, it is "a patterned use of a drug in which the user consumes the substance in amounts or with methods which are harmful to themselves or others, and is a form of substance-related disorder." In layman's terms, it's the regular use of a harmful substance that often leaves the user's life in total disarray.
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If there is such a thing as a recreational user, surely the line between that and abuse is indeed fine. It's worth noting that 12-step programs and treatment centers determine if someone is abusing a substance based on a simple concept. If the use of any particular substance is directly or indirectly affecting one's life is an adverse way, it's substance abuse.
Based on this concept, people who abuse substances will tend to have problems in relationships, work, and coping with everyday issues. They will also show subtle to not so subtle changes in their personality and physical well-being. This might include isolation, moodiness, anger, trouble sleeping, heart issues and breathing issues, all exacerbated by the constant drive to find and use substances.
Dealing With Substance Abuse
While many different solutions for addiction are being promoted on the Internet, treatment from a professional addiction treatment center like Lakeview Health in Jacksonville, Florida, is the only reliable solution. From detox all the way through to aftercare programs, Lakeview has a formula that