Substance Abuse Disorder

Substance use disorder is so incredibly complex and presents in so many ways.  Every individual can present differently when experiencing concerns with substance abuse, and their recovery is just as unique to them.  I also want to highlight that RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE. No matter how long one has been using, what one has been using, how much/how frequent one is using, or why they are using, recovery is possible. Within the DSM-5 (Diagnostical Statistical Manual) there is an outline of 11 criteria outlining substance use disorder used in diagnosis and measurements of severity.

1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you’re meant to

2. Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to

3. Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance

4. Cravings and urges to use the substance

5. Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of substance use

6. Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships

7. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use

8. Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger

9. Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance

10. Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance)

11. Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance

The 11 criteria outlined in the DSM-5 can be grouped into 4 primary categories: physical dependence, risky use, social problems, and impaired control.

Severity of Substance Use Disorders 

The DSM-5 allows clinicians to specify how severe or how much of a problem the substance use disorder is, depending on how many symptoms are identified. In addition, understanding the severity of the substance use disorder also allows clinicians more information in the development of an effective treatment plan, with intent to support individuals in reaching their recovery goals.

Mild: Two or three symptoms indicate a mild substance use disorder.5

Moderate: Four or five symptoms indicate a moderate substance use disorder.

Severe: Six or more symptoms indicate a severe substance use disorder.

If you or someone you know is concerned about substance use disorder, please know you’re not alone and there is support available for you. You deserve to create a healthy, purposeful, and meaningful life, free from the limitations of addiction and/or mental health concerns. Please reach out to a medical/mental health professional if you are concerned about your mental health or substance use, please do not self-diagnose!

Here is a link to a list of government-funded resources available.

https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/get-help-with-substance-use.html