Understanding Substance Abuse: Types, Effects & Common Examples

Many people wonder about the types of substance abuse. Numerous substances can be abused by addicts who seek a high. Some substances are uppers, while others are downers. Some addicts use one and then the other to bring himself back up or down. Below are five of the most common types of substance abuse. See the link in the Resources section for a complete list of substances.

Alcohol

• Social acceptability makes alcohol one of the most abused substances. Because access to alcoholic beverages is convenient, alcohol abuse affects a large population.

Cocaine

• Cocaine addiction can be detrimental to the substance abuser because it drains all aspects of his life. Financial, family and emotional issues surface with the addiction.

LSD

• LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) can be a drug of choice for individuals wanting to escape the reality of life. Many addicts choose LSD because it is undetectable in drug tests.

Marijuana

• A common, inexpensive drug that is usually inhaled is marijuana, also referred to as pot. Unlike other substances, marijuana is not as physically addictive. However, marijuana is viewed as a gateway drug to other substances.

Prescription Drugs

• Prescription substance abuse is on the rise and affects teens as well as adults. Prescription drugs are usually found by the addict initially in the home.