A common mistake is to focus only on 'misuse' or 'abuse'. Misunderstandings may arise because of our understanding of the word 'drug'. This includes medicine, legal and illegal substances, although many people act as if it only includes the last named. An information leaflet called 'The Works' from Hope UK includes alcohol, tobacco and solvents in its description of the common drugs used for 'social' purposes. It is helpful to understand why people choose to consume drugs. Their reasons are often positive - the same sorts of reasons that might apply to any activity of choice:- |