Final answer:
Substance abuse refers to the excessive and harmful use of alcohol and drugs, characterized by use without medical advice and negative consequences. It can lead to drug addiction and dependence, requiring rehabilitation and possibly psychotherapy and medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to the excessive and harmful use of alcohol and drugs is C. Substance abuse.
Substance abuse is the use of a drug without the advice of a medical professional and for reasons not originally intended, often leading to negative consequences such as health issues, and social and legal problems. Drug addiction is a more advanced stage of substance use where there is a compulsive use of a drug despite the negative consequences. Addiction often results in dependence, which can be physical or psychological. Physical dependence is characterized by withdrawal symptoms when drug use is stopped, while psychological dependence involves a persistent craving for the substance.
Rehabilitation for substance abuse and drug addiction typically involves a comprehensive approach that can include psychotherapy and, in some cases, the use of medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. TheDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines substance use disorder as a compulsive pattern of drug use despite negative consequences, which includes the aspects of both physical and psychological dependence.