Substance abuse occurs when someone has difficulty controlling the impulses to use a specific substance, such as drugs (prescription, non-prescription or illegal) and alcohol. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines substance use disorder as a brain disease characterized by repeated substance use despite negative effects. The compulsion to use these substances becomes so overwhelming that it begins to interfere with daily activities, life responsibilities, relationships, and overall health.

The negative effects of substance abuse spread wide through families and communities. Substance abuse is directly responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths each year in the United States. Sadly, many of the deaths have involved innocent bystanders, family members and friends. It is a significant public health concern is associated with higher rates of domestic violence, child abuse/neglect, familial stress, poor job performance, and the spread of communicable diseases such as hepatitis C and HIV.