About Substance Use

Substance use occurs when a person uses mind-altering substances such as alcohol or drugs. While not everyone who uses these substances develops a problem, alcohol and drug misuse leads to harmful consequences for many individuals and families. Because alcohol and drugs change the brain, controlling intake can be challenging, quitting can be difficult, and relapses are common. Researchers studying substance use and misuse want to learn more about the complex interactions between biology (e.g., genetics, mental disorders) and environment (e.g., peer pressure, history of abuse, stress) in people who use alcohol and drugs. Over time, these findings may lead to new ways to predict behaviors and treat those who misuse substances.

CURRENT STUDIES THAT MAY INTEREST YOU



RELATED RESEARCH AREAS:
  Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking, Other Substance Use