What is the definition of drug abuse? How to measure it?

Thanks for your great comment.

Greatly appreciate your response!

Drug abuse is defined as the excessive, maladaptive, or addictive use of drugs for nonmedical purposes despite social, psychological, and physical problems that may arise from such use. It involves taking illegal substances or using prescription medications in a way other than prescribed, often to experience euphoric effects.

Drug abuse can be measured using various screening tools, such as the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST), which assesses the severity of drug use. Factors like accessibility, social influences, mental health conditions, and genetic predisposition contribute to the development of drug abuse. Continued use despite negative consequences and inability to control usage are key indicators of substance abuse disorder.