substance abuse

noun

1. long-term, pathological use of alcohol or drugs, characterized by daily intoxication, inability to reduce consumption, and impairment in social or occupational functioning; broadly, alcohol or drug addiction.

Example Sentences

There are no shocking revelations of immorality or stories of substance abuse that aren’t already widely known.

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These are housing projects intended to help people with histories of substance abuse stay clean.

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He was very open with me about his substance abuse.

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The film was developed from a 2002 documentary about Kerr with the same title - which contrasted the fighter's achievements with more intimate scenes, as he battled substance abuse and fought with his girlfriend.

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As governor, he would more money into treatment for substance abuse programs and diversion programs for those who commit minor crimes, he said.

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Related Words

• alcohol abuse www.thesaurus.com
• drug abuse 
• drug use www.thesaurus.com