Definition The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines substance abuse as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines substance abuse as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. (NIDA, 2012) (NIDA, 2012)
