Tag: Recreational drugs

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, over 48.5 million Americans suffer from a substance use disorder. Understanding what are the three main types of drug abuse is a critical first step toward recognizing potential problems and finding appropriate help for yourself or a loved one.

For millennia, humans have used substances to alter their consciousness and treat ailments; archaeological evidence suggests use as far back as 10,000 years ago. This long history helps answer the complex question: what is a drug and why are drugs used? The reasons range from lifesaving medical interventions to recreational pleasure and deep-seated addiction.

Pharmacologically, caffeine is the world's most widely consumed psychoactive substance, affecting mood and behavior. When people ask, "Does caffeine count as a recreational drug?", the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, involving a mix of science, societal norms, and legal definitions.