Substance misuse, also known as substance abuse or substance use disorder, refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances such as alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medications, and other substances. This behavior can lead to negative consequences in various areas of a person's life, including physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and work or school performance. Research in this area focuses on understanding the causes and risk factors associated with substance misuse, developing and evaluating interventions for prevention and treatment, and studying the impact of substance misuse on individuals, families, and communities. This research often involves a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon fields such as psychology, sociology, medicine, public health, and neuroscience to address the complex and multifaceted nature of substance misuse. The ultimate goal of research in this area is to reduce the prevalence and harm of substance misuse and improve outcomes for individuals struggling with these issues.