What defines drug abuse?

The definition of drug abuse is best captured by the concept of intentional use for achieving an altered state of consciousness. This definition highlights the purposeful aspect of drug use, indicating that individuals engage with substances specifically to modify their mental state, experience euphoria, or escape from reality. This intention reflects a pattern of behavior typically associated with addiction, where the individual prioritizes the pursuit of this altered state over other important life activities, potentially leading to negative consequences.

In the context of substance abuse, it is essential to recognize that it goes beyond merely using substances; it encompasses a pattern that can lead to detrimental effects on health, relationships, and overall well-being. The focus on "intentional use" serves to differentiate drug abuse from casual or benign use, reinforcing the significance of the decision-making process behind substance use.

Other choices do not adequately define drug abuse. For instance, defining drug abuse as inappropriate use that causes minimum harm downplays the serious ramifications of any level of substance misuse. Occasional binge drinking with no long-term effects also fails to recognize that even infrequent misuse can still constitute abuse, particularly if it involves risks or harms while under the influence. Lastly, limiting drug abuse to the use of prescription medications ignores the broader context of substance use across various categories