Counseling Center Drug Issues Drugs are substances containing chemicals, which alter a person s mood, functioning or behavior. Drug abuse refers to an pattern of repeated use despite recurrent and significant use related problems.
People can become physically and mentally addicted to drugs.
Someone who is dependent is unable to control their drug use and drugs seem to rule their lives. Drug dependence has an effect on a person s family, work and social networks. Drug problems can affect anyone regardless of sex, age, race or income level. Users of marijuana can become psychologically and physically addicted to the drug. Marijuana cigarettes are more damaging to the lungs than tobacco cigarettes and can cause harm to a developing fetus.