Learn about substance use disorders

Using drugs or alcohol in a way that harms you or that leads you to harm others, like your family or friends, is called substance use disorder. Someone with a substance use problem keeps using even though it causes problems in other parts of their life. People can have substance use problems with alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and non-prescribed drugs. People who have a substance use problem with drugs or alcohol can also become addicted to them. If you think you might have a substance use disorder, our topics can give you the support you need to help you lessen the harm and help you with your health goals. And if you're worried about someone else, you can find tips in our topics for providing support to others.