1. It is the use of a drug in amounts or by methods which are harmful to the individual or others.
1.1. SIGNS/SYMPTOMS
1.1.1. BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS
1.1.2. PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS
1.1.2.1. -Bloodshot or glazed eyes. -Dilated or constricted pupils. -Abrupt weight changes. -Changes in hygiene. -Dental issues. -Skin changes. -Problems sleeping or sleeping too much.
1.2. RISK FACTORS
1.2.1. -Genetic predisposition -Certain brain characteristics that can make someone more vulnerable to addictive substances than the average person -Psychological factors (e.g., stress, personality traits like high impulsive or sensation seeking, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, personality and other psychiatric disorders) -Environmental influences (e.g., exposure to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse or trauma, substance use or addiction in the family or among peers, access to an addictive substance; exposure to popular culture references that encourage substance use) -Starting alcohol, nicotine or other drug use at an early age
1.3. DRUG OVERDOSE
1.3.1. Taking too much of a drug, including prescription drugs, can result in an overdose. Each person will react differently, but death can occur in some cases. Even if the person recovers there can be permanent damage to their body.