Campaign against drug abuse and drug addiction The Different Between Drug Abuse and Drug Addiction Drug abuse refers to the misuse or excessive use of drugs, including both legal and illegal substances, in a way that has negative consequences on a person's physical and mental health. It involves the use of drugs in a manner that is detrimental to one's well-being, often leading to various problems in different areas of life, such as relationships, work, and overall functioning. Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, occurs when a person becomes physically and psychologically dependent on a particular drug or substance. It is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and drug use, despite the harmful consequences it may bring. Addiction is a chronic condition that affects the brain's reward and motivation systems, making it challenging to control drug use and leading to changes in behavior, cognition, and overall functioning. It is often accompanied by tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when drug use is stopped or reduced. Both drug abuse and drug addiction are serious issues that can have severe consequences on individuals and society as a whole, affecting physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.