HANDBOOK OF SUBSTANCE MISUSE AND ADDICTIONS

The prevalence and impact of substance misuse and addiction represent one of the most pressing public health challenges of the 21st century. Across the globe, millions of individuals and families are affected by the medical, psychological, social, and economic consequences of addictive behaviors. The complexity of addiction, encompassing biological, psychological, and social dimensions, demands a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that integrates clinical expertise with an understanding of neurobiology, pharmacology, and societal influences. This book, Handbook of Substance Misuse and Addictions, has been designed to serve as a definitive guide for students, clinicians, researchers, and public health practitioners seeking a thorough understanding of this multifaceted field. The primary objective of this handbook is to provide an organized, clinically relevant framework that bridges foundational science with practical applications. The book begins with a detailed exploration of the principles underlying substance misuse, including definitions, historical perspectives, epidemiology, and the neurobiological mechanisms that drive addiction. Subsequent chapters address risk and protective factors, classification of substances, behavioral addictions, clinical assessment, and pharmacology, establishing a foundation for understanding the diverse manifestations of addictive disorders. Later sections delve into acute and chronic management, psychosocial interventions, harm reduction strategies, and emerging challenges posed by synthetic and designer drugs, technological addictions, and global patterns of use.