Definition:
Substance Abuse is defined as defined as overindulgence in or dependence on alcohol or drugs, but is basically a term used synonymously with addiction or substance dependence.
Previous to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-V), substance abuse and substance dependence were the diagnoses used in regards to addiction. Currently, addiction is diagnosed as a substance use disorder and then specified to be mild, moderate, or severe.