Define substance abuse.

Substance abuse is accurately defined as the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. This definition captures the essence of substance abuse as it emphasizes the negative impact that such use can have on an individual's health, social life, and overall well-being.

Substance abuse goes beyond mere recreational use; it examines the consequences of such behaviors, highlighting that even substances that some may consider socially acceptable, like alcohol, can lead to detrimental outcomes when misused.

The definition does not refer to recreational use in moderation or the adherence to prescribed doses, which typically fall under responsible or controlled use rather than abuse. Additionally, the idea of a temporary state of use without consequences does not align with the reality of substance abuse, as it inherently involves some level of harm or detrimental effects. Thus, the chosen answer clearly identifies the critical nature of substance abuse and its implications.