Why We Use the Term Substance Use Disorder Instead of Substance Abuse
It’s long been common practice to describe a person who regularly uses drugs or alcohol as a substance abuser and to label that person an addict or alcoholic. However, all three words—abuser, addict, and alcoholic—can be negative and stigmatizing. The word “abuse” carries a negative connotation, especially as it’s commonly connected to harm inflicted on […]
