What is the definition of drug abuse?

Drug abuse the use of any substance strictly to alter the mood, without that substance being prescribed by a doctor. Drug abusers use the drugs to relieve anxiety - whether they call it "relieving pain," "relaxing," "taking a trip," or "feeling good." People who are happy with themselves and satisfied with their lives do not become drug abusers. If you drink alcohol because you like the taste of a drink once in a while, you are not abusing alcohol - if you drink because you want to change your mood, you are abusing it. Drug use becomes drug addiction when the user continues to use the substance even though they know it is harming them.