What defines substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder is primarily characterized by an individual's inability to stop using a substance despite experiencing negative consequences. This definition encompasses a range of problematic behaviors associated with substance use, including physical dependence, tolerance, and continued use despite adverse outcomes, such as health problems, relationship issues, or legal troubles.

The focus on negative consequences is key to understanding substance use disorder, as it highlights that the individual may recognize the harmful effects of their substance use yet feels compelled to continue. This lack of control and the persistence of use even when facing repercussions are essential criteria used in clinical assessments and diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Additional options may touch on aspects of substance use, such as occasional loss of control or recreational use, but these do not encapsulate the comprehensive nature of a disorder that mandates clinical attention or intervention. The correct understanding of substance use disorder involves recognizing the overall pattern of behavior that leads to significant impairment or distress, making the definition focused on inability to cease usage the most accurate in this context.