Word: Substance Abuse
Definition:Substance abuse is a noun that refers to the excessive or harmful use of drugs, alcohol, or other substances. When people engage in substance abuse, they often use these substances in a way that can be dangerous to their health or well-being.
Usage Instructions: - You can use "substance abuse" in conversations about health, addiction, or social issues. - It is often used in discussions about treatment, prevention, and support for people struggling with addiction.
Example: - "The community is working to raise awareness about substance abuse and its effects on families."
Advanced Usage: - In a more formal context, you might encounter phrases like "substance abuse disorder," which refers to a medical condition where a person has a problematic pattern of using substances that leads to significant impairment or distress.
Word Variants: - Substance abuser (noun): A person who engages in substance abuse. - Substance-abuse (adjective): Relating to the use of drugs or alcohol in a harmful way, e.g., "substance-abuse treatment programs."
Different Meanings: - The term "substance" can refer to any material or matter, not just drugs or alcohol. For example, "water is a substance." - "Abuse" can refer to the harmful use of something, not just substances. For instance, "child abuse" refers to harming a child.
Synonyms: - Drug abuse - Alcohol abuse - Addiction - Dependency
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - Hit rock bottom: This means to reach the lowest point in life, often used to describe someone whose substance abuse has led to serious consequences. - Clean up one's act: This means to improve one's behavior, often used when someone decides to stop abusing substances.
Summary:Substance abuse is an important term that describes the harmful and excessive use of drugs or alcohol. It's essential to understand its implications for health and society.