This includes alcoholism, which afflicts 10 million adults and 3 million children, and 12.5 million Americans who are addicted to other drugs, such as sedative-hypnotics, opiates, sedatives, hallucinogens and psychostimulants. Substance abusers face substantial health risks, as well as risks of criminal victimization and damaging effects on their socioeconomic status. There are a variety of treatments available, and appropriately administered treatment can be very effective.
Family support can also be beneficial.
A strong need or compulsion to drink or use drugs. The occurrence of withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness and anxiety when alcohol or drug use is stopped. Abuse differs from addiction in that it does not include an extremely long craving for a substance, loss of control, or physical dependence. It is also less likely to include tolerance. Situations that are physically dangerous, such as driving a car or operating machinery while under the influence of substances.