Defining the  Differences Between Substance Use and Abuse

Substance use is the act of consuming a substance, such as alcohol, drugs, or tobacco. It can be occasional or regular, and it can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to relax, socialize, or cope with stress.

Substance abuse is a pattern of substance use that causes negative consequences in a person's life. This can include problems at work, school, or in relationships; health problems; or legal trouble.

Substance use disorders

Substance use disorders are a group of mental health conditions that are characterized by compulsive substance use, even when it has negative consequences. Substance use disorders can range from mild to severe, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and personal history.

Some of the most common substance use disorders include:

• Alcohol use disorder

• Opioid use disorder

• Cannabis use disorder

• Stimulant use disorder

Harm reduction techniques

Harm reduction is a public health approach that aims to reduce the negative consequences of substance use, even if it does not lead to abstinence. Harm reduction strategies are based on the belief that people who use drugs have the right to access services and support without judgment or coercion.

Some examples of harm reduction techniques include:

• Syringe service programs (SSPs) : SSPs provide sterile syringes and other supplies to people who inject drugs in order to reduce the risk of HIV, hepatitis C, and other bloodborne diseases.

• Naloxone distribution: Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Harm reduction programs often distribute naloxone to people who use opioids and their loved ones so that they can respond to an overdose in an emergency.

• Safer smoking supplies: Harm reduction programs may distribute safer smoking supplies, such as pipes and filters, to people who smoke drugs. This can help to reduce the risk of harm from smoking.

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT is a combination of medication and counseling that can help people with opioid use disorder to stop using opioids and maintain recovery.

How to support someone in decreasing their use or stopping altogether

If you know someone who is struggling with substance misuse (abuse), there are a few things you can do to support them:

• Talk to them about your concerns in a supportive and non-judgmental way.

• Encourage them to seek professional help, such as from a therapist or counselor.

• Offer to help them find harm reduction resources, such as an SSP or MAT program.

• Be patient and understanding. Recovery is a process, and it takes time.

If you are concerned about your own substance use, you can also seek professional help. There are many resources available to help people reduce their use or stop altogether. Feel free to send me an email/complete a consult request to obtain additional resources.