Mental and behavioural disorders resulting from psycho-active substance use include disorders caused by the use of alcohol, opioids (such as opium or heroin), cannabinoids (such as marijuana), sedatives and hypnotics, cocaine, other stimulants, hallucinogens, tobacco and volatile solvents.

Harmful use is diagnosed when damage has been caused to the physical and mental health of the user.

Dependence syndrome involves a craving to take a substance, difficulty in controlling use, a psychological withdrawal state, tolerance, neglect of one's self interests, and persistent use despite harm to oneself and others.

Are substance use disorders genuine or are they deviant behaviours on the part of the individual to deliberately indulge in an activity that causes them harm? More...