Substance abuse is a problem because it can have a negative impact on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Long-term substance abuse can lead to a range of health problems, such as liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Substance abuse can also affect a person’s relationships with others, including family, friends, and coworkers. It can also lead to financial problems, legal issues, and even death from overdose or accidents. In addition to the individual consequences, substance abuse can also have a broader impact on society, including increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and strain on law enforcement and other social services.