Drug Use

Drug use refers to individual behaviors that involve the consumption of alcohol and use of other illicit drugs including nonprescription drugs. Some individuals use drugs for recreational purposes, others have a more serious problem of drug abuse, while the extreme form of drug use is addiction. Drug use can have serious consequences not only for individuals but for families, schools, communities, social institutions, the criminal and juvenile justice systems, and the private sector. This entry examines the extent of drug use, drug of choice, drugs and race, and drug use and crime.

During the first decade of the 21st century, drug use continues to be a social problem. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), during 2007, approximately 19.9 million Americans age 12 and older, used illegal drugs. The rate of illicit drug use has remained fairly stable since 2002, ranging from 8.3% to 8.1% in 2005, and 8% in 2007. Binge drinking, driving under the influence, marijuana use, prescription drug use, and cocaine use continue to present challenges for all Americans, especially youth and young adults. For example, almost 10 million persons age 12 or older reported they drove under the influence of illicit drugs in 2007, 2.1 million used cocaine, and 6.9 million reported using prescription-type drugs for nonmedical purposes during the past month when surveyed. According to the NSDUH, 3.9 million people age 12 or older received treatment for alcohol or illicit drug use in 2007.

Each drug user is unique. Recreational drug users are not easily characterized. They are less likely to use alcohol and/or drugs on a regular basis and, therefore, may not view themselves as either drug abusers or drug dependent. They are less likely to view their drug use as interfering with their interpersonal relationships, employment, or other endeavors. Most drug abusers and those experiencing addictions are dependent on drugs and are thought to share some common characteristics, including personality disorders, an unhealthy physical appearance, as well as engaging in risky behaviors and social activities. Some lack adequate hygiene, have an imbalance in sleeping habits, experience loss of appetite, have weight problems (too thin or too heavy), and experience an overabundance of hyper-activity or lethargy. From a personality and social activity perspective, the following behaviors tend to occur: (a) verbally and physically abusive to others, (b) frequent change in mood, (c) constant lying and stealing, (d) depression, (e) loss of interest in social activities, and (f) poor concentration or memory.