What defines chemical abusers?

Chemical abusers are specifically defined as individuals who misuse or abuse alcohol, illicit drugs, or both. This definition encompasses a wide range of substances that can lead to harmful behaviors and health consequences. The term "chemical abuse" indicates that the substance is being used in a way that is not intended, leading to potential dependency, addiction, or other negative impacts on an individual’s life or the lives of those around them.

In this context, focusing solely on people who use prescription medication, consume substances in moderation, or are only addicted to nicotine does not fully capture the broader definition of chemical abuse. Prescription medication can be abused, but the choice encompasses only a narrow aspect of substance misuse. Similarly, consuming legal substances like alcohol in moderation does not indicate any abuse behavior. Lastly, while nicotine addiction is a significant issue, it is often categorized separately from the broader range of substances that are abused, such as illicit drugs and alcohol. Thus, the comprehensive definition that includes various forms of substance misuse aligns with the understanding of chemical abusers.