Drug Abuse Facts

Find Drug Facts and Statistics

When talking about drug abuse, facts are important. Some people assume that drug abuse is the same thing as addiction, but it is not. While both are dangerous and difficult to discontinue without help, they have different diagnosis criteria. Knowing the facts about drug abuse can be the key to getting the most effective help for your particular problem.

Drug abuse often occurs as the first step toward addiction.  Substance abuse begins when someone tries an illegal drug or starts using a legal drug in a way in which it wasn't intended. Addiction begins with drug abuse and ends with a compulsive, uncontrollable need to use the drug and the inability to quit. This is when you can no longer deny the need for drug abuse help.

Drug Abuse Facts: The Differences between Abuse and Addiction

Drug Abuse Symptoms:

• Using drugs to change how one feels about themselves and/or some aspect(s) of their lives
• Needing to set limits on how much and how often one uses drugs or alcohol after experiencing problems associated to it
• Problems at work with lateness, absenteeism or mistakes being made
• Scholastic difficulties
• Difficulties at home; coming home late, sleeping a lot, forgetting chores

Drug Addiction Symptoms:

• Continuing to use despite any negative consequences associated with using
• Setting limits on amount or frequency of use but unexpectedly exceeding those limits
• Breaking promises to themselves and/or others that they will use in moderation
• Feeling guilty or remorseful about using but still failing to permanently alter use
• Resenting, discounting and/or disregarding any comments or complaints about their using
• Drinking while driving; DUI's, accidents
• Legal problems and financial problems
• Deteriorating relationships
• Mood swings; anger, depression

The first step to getting the help you need is determining if you are suffering from drug addiction or drug abuse. The facts above should help you decide where you stand. If you are suffering from drug abuse, it is important to get the right kind of treatment before it turns into an addiction.

TreatmentforSubstanceAbuse.org is the most comprehensive source for drug abuse prevention and substance abuse facts. If you or someone you know needs drug abuse help, contact us now at 1-800-763-1562. We'll give you the substance abuse resources and information you need and help you find the best possible treatment. All calls are toll-free, confidential, and the staff is standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call.