Define tolerance, withdrawal, and substance use disorder. As a clinician, which signs and symptoms would you assess for to determine whether someone meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder? Be specific in describing the symptoms.

Question

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The Answer is Tolerance refers to the need for increased amounts of a substance to achieve the desired effect, or a diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the substance. Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops using a substance that they have become dependent on. Substance use disorder is a condition characterized by the continued use of a substance despite significant substance-related problems.

As a clinician, I would assess for the following signs and symptoms to determine whether someone meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder:

1. Impaired control: This includes using larger amounts of the substance than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use, and spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance.

2. Social impairment: This involves continued substance use despite persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance.

3. Risky use: This includes using the substance in situations where it is physically hazardous, such as driving under the influence, or using the substance despite knowing that it is causing or worsening physical or psychological problems.

4. Pharmacological criteria: This involves developing tolerance to the substance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance, or using the substance to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

5. Craving: This involves a strong desire or urge to use the substance.

6. Continued use despite negative consequences: This includes using the substance despite knowing that it is causing or worsening physical or psychological problems.

By assessing for these specific signs and symptoms, a clinician can determine whether an individual meets the criteria for substance use disorder according to the DSM-5.

Define Tolerance, Withdrawal, and Substance Use Disorder