Lethbridge Harm Reduction
(Heck, n.d.)
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) involves (often maladaptive) behaviour patterns where people continue to use substances regardless of the outcome. These substances produce feelings of pleasure with activation so strong that it produces an intensely desired craving for the substance. This may cause people to neglect normal activities so that they can obtain and use the drug. The term substance use disorder is preferred over other terms such as "addiction", "abuse", and "dependence". Both "Substance use disorder" and "SUD" will be used interchangeably throughout this website.
Be informed
The media has a strong influence on how the public perceives Substance Use Disorder. This is troublesome as what is shared tends to be an opinion or misrepresentation of the facts.
Becoming informed will allow individuals a better understanding of the choices they have and the effects these choices could have on the community. Knowledge is power. Be informed.
