Final answer:
Drug misuse refers to using drugs for non-intended purposes, often without medical advice, which can lead to drug addiction, a condition of compulsive substance use despite adverse consequences. Overcoming addiction typically requires rehabilitation. Drug abuse impacts both the individual and society at large.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drug Abuse and Drug Addiction
Drug misuse is the use of a substance for purposes other than those for which it was originally intended, often without the advice of a medical professional. This could include prescription or over-the-counter medicines taken in doses that are too high, or using illegal drugs. Drug addiction is a more severe condition characterized by the compulsive use of a substance such as a psychoactive drug despite the negative consequences that such use may entail. Psychoactive drugs can cause changes in mood and behavior, which may be desirable to some users, potentially leading to misuse and addiction.
When someone becomes addicted to a drug, they may experience a dependency that makes it difficult to stop using the substance without suffering from withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms could be physical, such as tremors or seizures, or psychological, such as anxiety or depression. The process of overcoming addiction often involves rehabilitation, which typically entails psychotherapy and sometimes the use of other psychoactive substances to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
Drug abuse not only affects the individual but can also have broad societal implications. The production, consumption, and transportation of illegal substances are linked to criminal activities, and these drugs are both a cause and an effect of crime. Understanding the patterns of drug use and abuse can help address various societal problems and health issues related to substance use disorders.