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I Think I Have a Problem...How do I know?

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In the last edition of the DSM, DSM-IV, there are two categories: substance abuse and substance dependence. DSM-5 combines these two categories into one called "substance use disorder".

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If your substance use causes significant problems in your life, such as health issues, disability, and or not meeting your responsibilities at work, home, or school, you may have a substance use disorder.

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11 Official Criteria for a Substance Use Disorder

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Substance use disorders are classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how many of the diagnostic criteria you meet. The following is the DSM-5 criteria for a substance use disorder:

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  1. Hazardous use: You've used the substance in ways that are dangerous to yourself and/or others, i.e., overdosed, driven while under the influence, and/or blacked out.

  2. Social or interpersonal problems related to use: Your substance use has caused relationship problems or conflicts with others.

  3. Neglected major roles to use: You've failed to meet your responsibilities at work, school, or home because of your substance use.

  4. Withdrawal: When you've stopped using the substance, you've experienced withdrawal symptoms.

  5. Tolerance: You've built up a tolerance to the substance so that you have to use more to get the same effect.

  6. Used larger amounts/longer: You've started to use larger amounts or use the substance for longer amounts of time.

  7. Repeated attempts to control use or quit: You've tried to cut back or quit entirely, but haven't been successful.

  8. Much time spent using: You spend a lot of your time using the substance.

  9. Physical or psychological problems related to use: Your substance use has led to physical health problems like liver damage or lung cancer, and/or psychological issues, such as depression or anxiety.

  10. Activities given up to use: You've skipped activities or stopped doing activities you once enjoyed in order to use the substance.

  11. Craving: You've experienced cravings for the substance.

Serious Man
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