People use substances for many reasons, and all substances have both positive and negative effects. Despite misconceptions, most people who use substances do not experience problems. In some circumstances, substance use can become dependent. An unhealthy relationship with substances may be harmful to one’s health and legal vulnerability. Good relationships can be experimental and recreational.

Substance use is a common trait among people from many walks of life, and in every community. The voices of people with lived and living experience using substances are unique. No one else can speak about what their experience feels like and what effect substances have on their lives.