The terms “abuse” or, moreproperly, “misuse” and “addiction” are often used interchangeably, but contrary
Abuse vs. Misuse
Our terminology foraddiction-related language continues to evolve as we learn more about the
science of addiction as well as the societal impact of certain terms. While
substance “abuse” is still common in the vernacular, the addiction treatment
field now favors “substance use” or “misuse.” These terms are both more
accurate and have fewer negative connotations.
When identifying substancemisuse, we are looking at a pattern of someone using substances or drugs for
purposes for which they were not intended and partial hospitalization programs in Virginia. For example, whensomeone is taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs not for the purposes
of treating pain or illness, but to elicit the mood-altering effects of the
drugs. Some of the symptoms of misuse include:
Performance at work orschool begins to decline
Relationships start tobecome problematic
A person may begin takingdangerous and unnecessary risks as a result of their consumption
A person’s finances startto get tighter as they indulge more in their substance of choice
Someone misusing substancesmay still be able to stop before harming themselves or others or may choose to
stop the use of the substances altogether rather easily. When someone is unable
to break their pattern of using substances, typically measured within a
12-month period, that is when substance misuse has turned into addiction.
Addiction and partial hospitalization programs in Virginia
If someone has continued theirpattern of substance misuse to the point where they are no longer able to stop
using substances, even if they want to, then misuse has turned into addiction
or substance use disorder (SUD). Prolonged exposure to addictive substances
begins to have a lasting impact on the brain, actually altering how neurons
function. Specifically, addictive substances alter the parts of the brain that
regulate motivation and impulse control, causing a person to lose control over
when and how much the substance is used. Some symptoms of addiction include:
Tolerance levels rise andsubstance use may be in larger amounts over a longer period than intended for
the desired effect
It becomes increasinglydifficult to stop using drugs or alcohol even after repeated attempts to quit
Cravings, or an intensedesire to use the substance may be present
Severe withdrawal symptomsmay appear such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and extreme anxiety
Individuals become lessinterested in passions and hobbies outside of using drugs or alcohol
People may isolatethemselves from loved ones due to shame and attempts to hide their addiction
Daily life revolves aroundobtaining the substance, getting high or drunk, and recovering from use
The individual may beunable to fulfill duties at work, school, or home due to substance use
The primary criteria bywhich we measure the difference between misuse and addiction is the
significance of the impact on the individual’s functioning. If someone
occasionally misuses substances but they are able to stop or curtail their use
when they choose, then they likely haven’t developed an addiction yet. It is
also important to note that addiction is a disease that often requires
dedicated treatment to overcome. Someone using drugs and alcohol may be able to
walk away, but someone with an addiction will likely need treatment and
assistance to change their patterns of behavior.
The good news is thatsubstance misuse, addiction, and alcohol, opioid, and substance use disorders,
are indeed treatable! And the sooner someone recognizes that they are
struggling and reaches out for help, the better.
