Because alcohol and drug use are so prevalent on college campuses, it can be difficult to tell when it goes from what might be seen as casual use to substance use disorder or addiction. Using drugs or alcohol may be a choice at first, but our brains can become chemically dependent on these substances to the point where we are no longer able to choose not to use them. As public perception has shifted, we have come to see drug and alcohol addiction as a disorder or disease rather than a choice.  Symptoms of substance abuse, dependence, and substance use disorder include: Hazardous use of drugs or alcohol Social or interpersonal problems due to use Neglecting major roles to use a substance Legal issues Withdrawal from substance Tolerance Using more amounts for longer Wanting to quit or control use but struggling to do so Spending a significant amount of time using the substance Physical or psychological problems related to substance use Giving up activities to use