There are a variety of reasons why people use drugs and alcohol. Many people use drugs and alcohol in a recreational way that causes no problem to them or the people around them and most people are able to stop using them without help and support. However drug and alcohol misuse (harmful use and dependence) negatively impacts on the lives of people using these substances and can also have a significant impact on the people around them, including their families, friends, communities and wider society. It is estimated that the cost of drug misuse to society is £15.4 billion each year in healthcare costs, crime and loss of productivity.