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What is problematic drug use
Problematic drug use refers to any pattern of drug taking—legal or illegal—that causes harm to health, relationships, work, safety, or daily life. It's not just about what you use, but how it affects you and those around you.
Problematic drug use is a sign that support or change may be needed. People can and do reduce or stop problematic use, especially with non-judgmental, harm reduction, or therapeutic support. The focus is on reducing harm, not shaming behaviour.
The term emerged in the late 20th century, especially in public health, harm reduction, and social work fields, as a non-judgmental alternative to words like “addict”, “drug abuse”, and “substance misuse”. It is a helpful term when engaging gay men who use chems, many of whom feel alienated by stigmatising language.
Signs of problematic drug use
- Using drugs even when it causes physical or mental harm.
- Feeling like you can’t cut back or stop, even if you want to.
- Neglecting work, relationships, or other responsibilities.
- Taking risks while high, eg: driving.
- Using chems to cope with stress, trauma, or other strong emotions.
- Getting through comedowns or withdrawals regularly.
- Spending more money or time than you planned to on drugs.