DUI Glossary

Addiction

A chronic, relapsing disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and abuse and by long-lasting chemical changes in the brain.

Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol Dependence, also known as "alcoholism," is a disease that includes four symptoms.

Binge Drinking
The consumption of five or more alcoholic drinks in a row on at least one occasion.

Cirrhosis

The result of chronic liver disease that causes scarring of the liver and liver dysfunction. This often has many complications, including accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, bleeding disorders, increased pressure in the blood vessels, and confusion or a change in the level of consciousness.

Physical Dependence

An adaptive physiological state that occurs with regular drug use and results in a withdrawal syndrome when drug use is stopped; usually occurs with tolerance.

Relapse

In drug abuse, relapse is the resumption of drug use after trying to stop taking drugs. Relapse is a common occurrence in many chronic disorders, including addiction, that require behavioral adjustments to treat effectively.

Residential Treatment Centers

Facilities that provide treatment 24 hours a day and can usually serve more than 12 young people at a time. Children with serious emotional disturbances receive constant supervision and care. Treatment may include individual, group, and family therapy; behavior therapy; special education; recreation therapy; and medical services. Residential treatment is usually more long- term than inpatient hospitalization. Centers are also known as therapeutic group homes.

Substance Abuse

Refers to the abuse of alcohol and/or drugs.

Stimulants

A class of drugs that elevates mood, increases feelings of well-being, and increases energy and alertness. These drugs produce euphoria and are powerfully rewarding.

Tolerance

A condition in which higher doses of a drug are required to produce the same effect as during initial use; often leads to physical dependence.