Only 6% of psychologists, 8% of counselors, and 11% of social workers are from countries of color.

Alcohol and Other Substance Abuse

What is alcohol and substance abuse?

Alcohol and substance abuse is the overuse and dependence on alcohol and/or drugs. Any chemical substance that causes physical, mood, thought or behavior changes is considered a drug. Alcohol is a drug. Substance abuse includes the use of alcohol, heroin, marijuana, inhalants, cocaine, opium and others.

Warning signs

If anyone you know show one or more of the following signs, they might be dependent on alcohol or drugs:

  • Using alcohol or drugs for at least one month.
  • Having difficulties with relationships at home or at work.
  • Getting in trouble - legal, social, or at work because of alcohol or drugs.
  • Frequently getting drunk or high.
  • Avoiding others to get drunk or high.
  • Lying and denying the amount of alcohol and drugs used.
  • Increasing use of alcohol and drugs to get the same effect.
  • Taking risks such as driving while drunk or on drugs.
  • Having problems at school because of alcohol or drug use.
  • Pressuring others to drink or use drugs.
  • Not feeling good about themselves.

Alcohol and drug abuse: MYTHS and FACTS

MYTH: Using alcohol or drugs will makes people feel happy
FACT: Most often use of alcohol and drugs makes people feel depressed, unhappy and alone.

MYTH: It is easy to control the amount of alcohol or drug use.
FACT: It is not easy. Because the body will crave more and more alcohol and drugs to get the same effect it got from smaller amounts. This is called tolerance.

MYTH: It is easy to stop drinking or using drugs.
FACT: Since you body has become dependent on alcohol and drugs, you will go through withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sleeping problems, depression, headaches and behavioral problems.

MYTH: Alcohol and substance abuse will not harm a person.
FACT: Alcohol and drug abuse can cause much physical and mental damage such as mental confusion, liver disease, hallucinations, loss of memory and other serious illnesses. It can also result in loss of work, family and social problems, academic problems, and during pregnancy seriously harm the baby.

MYTH: A person can still be in control even when using alcohol and drugs.
FACT: Alcohol and drug use can make people take risks that they may not usually take such as having unprotected sex, speeding, and engaging in self-destructive behaviors.

Who abuses alcohol and/or drugs and why?

Anyone can abuse alcohol and drugs including children, teenagers, women, men and the elderly.
Reasons can include:

  • Peer and social pressure.
  • Feeling more self confident.
  • Ignorance: not knowing the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs.
  • Believing it helps to cope with stress and problems.
  • Hereditary (usually children of persons who abuse alcohol and drugs will most likely also use substances).
  • To relax and be more sociable.

Where to seek help?

  • Public health centers
  • Doctors
  • School guidance counselors
  • Mental health workers

Who to Contact