Substance use disorder is a serious, chronic mental health condition that can cause significant distress and impairment to an individual’s life. It is characterized by misusing substances such as alcohol, drugs, or other legal and illegal substances.
Symptoms of substance use disorder can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity and duration of substance misuse. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of the symptoms associated with substance use disorder.
DSM-5 for Substance Use Disorder
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines 11 criteria for determining an individual’s substance use disorder diagnosis. To be diagnosed with this condition, an individual must meet at least two of these criteria within a 12-month period.
The 11 criteria are as follows:
- Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control usage
- Spending a large amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance
- Cravings — strong desires to consume the substance
- Failure to fulfill major obligations due to ongoing usage
- Continuing usage despite knowing it causes problems in social/interpersonal relationships
- Reducing involvement in activities they once enjoyed due to usage
- Engaging in hazardous activities while under the influence
- Using despite physical or psychological problems caused by the usage
- Tolerance — needing larger amounts over time to achieve the desired effect
- Withdrawal symptoms when ceasing use
Risk Factors for Developing a SUD
There are many potential risk factors that can increase someone’s chances of developing a SUD. These include things like genetic predisposition, environmental influences like peer pressure or family dynamics, mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, age of first use of a substance, and gender.
Additionally, lifestyle choices—such as lack of exercise or engaging in risky behaviors—can increase the likelihood of a SUD. It’s important to note that not everyone with one or more of these risk factors will develop a substance use disorder; however, those with one or more of these risk factors should be aware that they are at higher risk than those who don’t have them.
Reducing Your Risk of Developing a SUD
You can take steps to reduce your chances of developing a substance use disorder. The most important thing is to stay away from substances entirely if possible; however, if you choose to drink alcohol or use other substances like marijuana responsibly, then there are certain measures you can take to ensure that you don’t develop an addiction problem such as limiting your intake and setting limits on how often you drink/use drugs.
Additionally, engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the chance of developing a SUD by providing positive outlets for stress relief instead of turning to drugs or alcohol. Finally, being mindful of potential triggers, such as feeling overwhelmed by life events or having difficulty managing emotions, can help you recognize when it might be time to reach out for professional help before things spiral out of control.
In addition to meeting two or more criteria from this list, individuals may display additional behavioral symptoms indicating their need for treatment for substance use disorder. These include changes in mood and behavior, such as increased agitation, aggression, irritability, low energy levels, impaired concentration, and memory problems.
Treating Substance Use Disorder
Individuals with substance use disorder may have difficulty forming relationships with others and may struggle with self-care behaviors such as hygiene, nutrition, or sleep patterns. They may also experience financial difficulties due to spending money on their drug(s) of choice instead of necessities like food or rent payments. Lastly, individuals may display signs of physical dependence on their drug(s) through withdrawal symptoms when ceasing its use.
Suppose you suspect you or someone you know may have Substance Use Disorder. In that case, it’s important to seek professional help immediately as it can lead to serious physical and psychological issues if left untreated. By recognizing the signs and symptoms early on, you can get the help needed to manage your condition before it spirals out of control. Treatment options are available, so don’t hesitate to reach out today!