What is the DSM-5?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a vital diagnostic tool published by the American Psychiatric Association. This text is considered the gold standard on mental health and influences how disorders are investigated, diagnosed and treated — including addiction. DSM-5 is the fifth edition, which was updated in 2013 with input from the top experts in the mental health field.
DSM-5’s 11 Criteria for Addiction
According to DSM-5, a substance use disorder (SUD) involves patterns of symptoms caused by using a substance that an individual continues taking despite its negative effects. Based on decades of research, DSM-5 points out 11 criteria that can arise from substance misuse. These criteria fall under four basic categories — impaired control, physical dependence, social problems and risky use:
- Using more of a substance than intended or using it for longer than you’re meant to.
- Trying to cut down or stop using the substance but being unable to.
- Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use the substance.
- Needing more of the substance to get the desired effect — also called tolerance.
- Developing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
- Spending more time getting and using drugs and recovering from substance use.
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, work or school because of substance use.
- Continuing to use even when it causes relationship problems.
- Giving up important or desirable social and recreational activities due to substance use.
- Using substances in risky settings that put you in danger.
- Continuing to use despite the substance causing problems to your physical and mental health.
What is the most important information I should know about substance use disorders?
- Substance use disorders (SUDs) are characterized by 11 criteria, including drug cravings, unsuccessful attempts to cut back, taking more of a substance than intended, and continued use despite negative consequences.
- If you think you or someone you love has a substance use disorder, getting an official diagnosis is important and can ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment.
What Are Substance Use Disorders?
The DSM-5-TR recognizes substance-related disorders resulting from the use of 10 separate classes of drugs:2
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Cannabis
- Hallucinogens
- Inhalants
- Opioids
- Sedatives
- Hypnotics, or anxiolytics
- Stimulants (including amphetamine-type substances, cocaine, and other stimulants)
- Tobacco
While some major groupings of psychoactive substances are specifically identified, the use of other or unknown substances can also form the basis of a substance-related or addictive disorder.
The activation of the brain’s reward system is central to problems arising from drug use. The rewarding feeling people experience due to taking drugs may be so profound that they neglect other normal activities in favor of taking the drug.
The pharmacological mechanisms for each class of drug are different. However, the activation of the reward system is similar across substances in producing feelings of pleasure or euphoria, often referred to as a “high.”3
The DSM-5-TR recognizes that people are not all automatically or equally vulnerable to developing substance-related disorders. Some people have lower levels of self-control that predispose them to develop problems if exposed to drugs.
How The DSM-5 Identifies The Severity Of Substance Use Disorders
Within the diagnostic category of a substance use disorder (SUD), there are various levels of severity. The more severe, the more negative effects on the individual’s health, functioning, and relationships.
The more criteria that an individual meets, the more serious:
- Mild substance disorders include two or three symptoms being present
- Moderate substance disorders are diagnosed when four to five symptoms are identified
- Severe substance disorders include six or more criteria being apparent
Substance dependence is where a person comes to physically depend on the substance in order to function. Bodily systems begin to shut down during withdrawal. This is common in severe opioid use disorders and alcohol addiction.
At i-Kare Treatment Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive addiction treatment services in the state of Florida. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to helping individuals overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.
If you or a loved one is going through a hardship due to substance abuse, call us or Book a Consultation.
