Substance abuse refers to the overindulgence in and dependence on a stimulant, depressant, chemical substance, herb (plant) or fungus leading to effects that are detrimental to the individual's physical health or mental health, or the welfare of others.
The disorder is characterized by a pattern of continued pathological use of a medication, non-medically indicated drug or toxin, that results in repeated adverse social consequences related to drug use, such as failure to meet work, family, or school obligations, interpersonal conflicts, or legal problems. There are on-going debates as to the exact distinctions between substance abuse and substance dependence, but current practice standard distinguishes between the two by defining substance dependence in terms of physiological and behavioral symptoms of substance use, and substance abuse in terms of the social consequences of substance use.
Substance abuse may lead to addiction or substance dependence. Medically, physiologic dependence requires the development of tolerance leading to withdrawal symptoms. Both abuse and dependence are distinct from addiction which involves a compulsion to continue using the substance despite the negative consequences, and may or may not involve chemical dependency. Dependence almost always implies abuse, but abuse frequently occurs without dependence, particularly when an individual first begins to abuse a substance. Dependence involves physiological processes while substance abuse reflects a complex interaction between the individual, the abused substance and society. *
More on [ Substance abuse ]

Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand - ALAC's primary objective is to promote moderation in the use of alcohol and to develop and promote strategies that will reduce alcohol related problems for New Zealand.
Alcohol and Public Health Research Unit - An independent, peer reviewed research organisation which focuses on alcohol and other issues from a public health perspective.
Alcoholics Anonymous New Zealand - Online resource with AA essentials, list of meetings, events, and AA on the web.
Meta Description: [ Information about Alcoholics Anonymous in New Zealand, information on drinking problems and alcohol addiction, plus online resources for AA members. ]
Drug-Arm Palmerston North - Drug Awareness and Relief Movement, DRUG-ARM, is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation, committed to the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, without the use of unnecessary drugs. Includes information on the Palmerston North Street Van Inc., and Shepherds Rest lodging facility.
Needle Exchange Programme - Complete guide to Needle Exchange services in New Zealand.
New Zealand Drug Foundation - An umbrella organisation that aims to reduce drug related harm. Methods for achieving this include facilitation, advocacy and information dissemination.
The Great Brain Robbery - Extracts from, and information about, a book and cd intended to inform about drug use issues.
| The World Today | |
| Next Video | |