Keep a well-balanced life. Practicing stress management and mindfulness skills can help you identify potential triggers that may lead you to use drugs or alcohol and help you manage life stressors in a healthy way. Set goals. Stay active. Participate in healthy hobbies and activities.

Definition. As used in this discussion, substance abuse refers to excessive use of a drug in a way that is detrimental to self, society, or both. This definition includes both physical dependence and psychologic dependence.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable mental disorder that affects a person's brain and behavior, leading to their inability to control their use of substances like legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications. Symptoms can be moderate to severe, with addiction being the most severe form of SUD.