from Section V - Substance Abuse
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 January 2011
Introduction
Overview of substance abuse
Substance use disorders (SUD; substance abuse or dependence) are prevalent in both adult and adolescent populations. It is estimated that 8% of the US population aged 12 and older currently uses some formof illicit drug, and that this percentage is slightly higher among youths aged 12–17 (9.5%) (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 2008). The most commonly used substance is alcohol, and the most frequently used illicit drug is cannabis, followed by non-prescribed medications, cocaine, methamphetamines, and hallucinogens. Given their prevalence and deleterious physical, psychosocial, and financial effects, SUDs have become a major focus of research, with a particular recent emphasis on elucidating the mechanisms of addiction-related dysfunction and implications for treatment.
SUDs, as defined in the DSM-IV, include substance dependence and substance abuse. Substance dependence refers to recurrent use of a substance resulting in a clinically impairing pattern of repeatedly experiencing at least 3 of the following 7 criteria within a 12-month period: (1) tolerance; (2) use to relieve withdrawal; (3) using larger amounts or for more time than intended; (4) inability to cut down or quit; (5) spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance; (6) giving up important activities due to the substance use; and (7) continued use despite negative consequences, such as in medical or psychological health.
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