Substance Use Disorders

Approximately 4% of the U.S. popula­tion has a substance abuse disorder (Kessler et al., 2005). About 3% have a substance abuse disorder along with a mental health disorder (U.S.

Substance abuse is defined as the devel­opment of a “maladaptive pattern of sub­stance use” within a 12-month period that results in “recurrent and significant adverse consequences” related to the ongoing use (APA, 2000, p. 198). Substance abuse-related problems include using substances in situations that are dangerous and/or include adverse effects as a result of the substance abuse such as being arrested for driving under the influ­ence, persistent relationship/familial problems, financial problems, and employment difficul­ties (APA, 2000). An individual can have a diagnosis of substance abuse without having a diagnosis of substance dependence. Substance abuse and substance dependence include the use of alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medi­cations, and self-ingested toxins.