This can be defined as the uncontrollable pattern of use of harmful psychoactive substances such as alcohol, marijuana, stimulants (cocaine, cracks), opioids (painkillers) and even prescription drugs. 💊

Drug use can become drug abuse when the individual ignores the consequences of drug use due to the uncontrollable desire to continue to use. Drug abuse has significant consequences and can negatively affect an individual’s lifestyle and relationships especially in adolescents who are still developing and can become easily vulnerable to the harmful effects of drug abuse.

People abuse drugs for different reasons, some of which include peer pressure, curiosity, not following doctor’s prescription, expression of independence for young people, a means to forget troubles, for pleasure etc.

There’s another term called drug addiction – this is a state of psychological and physical dependence on a drug. It also results in negative consequences in the life of the individual.