Substance abuse and addiction

Substance abuse and addiction is an enormous topic that includes many habits and activities that are socially acceptable as well as those generally acknowledged to be harmful. Substances open to abuse include alcohol; nicotine; illegal drugs; prescription drugs, including barbiturates, amphetamines and tranquilizers; solvents, such as glues, petrol, aerosol propellants and cleaning agents. Someone can also have addiction issues with food; caffeine; sugar; shopping; porn; and sex. 

Addiction not only directly impacts the addict’s personal well-being (health and finances)  but has a huge strain on all those in their lives. Both personal (family and friends) and professional (employer or university) can find themselves struggling with having an effective and healthy relationship with the addict.