Substance abuse may lead to substance dependence.g. All use of illegal substances and all use of licit drugs in a manner not dictated by convention (e. Both abuse and dependence are distinct from addictive behavior which involves a craving to continue using the substance despite the negative consequences. Substance abuse refers to the overindulgence in drugs and dependence of other chemicals leading to effects that are detrimental to the individual's physical and mental health, or the welfare of others., driving an automobile or operating a machine when impaired by substance use) Recurrent substance-related legal problems (e. Dependence almost always implies abuse, but abuse frequently occurs without dependence, particularly when an individual first begins to abuse a substance.
The disorder is characterized by a pattern of continued pathological use of a medication that results in repeated adverse social consequences related to drug use, such as failure to meet work, family, or school obligations, interpersonal conflicts, or legal problems.g. These compulsions can be gambling, eating disorders like overeating, and internet addiction., repeated absences or poor work performance related to substance use; substance-related absences, suspensions or expulsions from school) Recurrent substance use in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.Recurrent substance use resulting in a failure to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home (e., arrests for substance-related disorderly conduct Continued substance use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance (e. Nowadays, however, the term addiction is used to describe a recurring intense need by an individual to engage in some specific activity, despite harmful consequences to the individual's health, mental state or social life., arguments with friends about consequences of intoxication, physical fights) .