Understanding Substance Abuse: Conceptual Models, Education and Training

Abstract

Substance abuse is one of the most serious threats facing the current American society. Approximately 25% of the Americanpopulation will have an alcohol or drug disorder at some point in life, afflicting individuals of every age, gender, race, and social status. The disorder can destroy the physical and mental health of the abuser, simultaneously deteriorating their families, relationships, andultimately their lives. The American Psychiatric Association (2018) defines a substance as a drug that is abused, such as, alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, an inhalant or a medication (e.g. a sedative, anxiolytic, or a toxin that can produce harmful effects when ingested or otherwise taken into the body). Misuse is defined as the act of using a substance in a manner that causes detrimental effects in some area of the individual's life. The purpose of this study is to explore the main models regarding the etiology and treatment of substance abuse.