Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a medical condition characterized by the recurrent use of substances such as alcohol, drugs, or medications despite significant negative consequences. It’s considered a chronic, relapsing disorder that affects the brain’s functioning and behavior, leading to compulsive drug seeking, use, and cravings.
SUD encompasses a range of problematic patterns of substance use, from mild to severe, and can involve various substances including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, hallucinogens, sedatives, and others. The severity of SUD is typically determined by the number of symptoms present, ranging from mild (fewer symptoms) to severe (many symptoms).
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder may include:
- Cravings for the substance.
- Difficulty controlling substance use.
- Continued use despite harmful consequences (such as physical or mental health problems, relationship issues, legal troubles, etc.).
- Tolerance – needing more of the substance to achieve the desired effect.
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance.
- Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities due to substance use.
Substance Use Disorder is diagnosed based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. Treatment for SUD often involves a combination of behavioral therapies, counseling, medication-assisted treatment, support groups, and other interventions tailored to the individual’s needs.