What is included in the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder?

The DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder encompass a range of symptoms that reflect the impact of substance use on an individual’s life. Among these, impaired control and social impairment are critical components.

Impaired control refers to an individual’s inability to limit their substance use despite wanting to cut down or having unsuccessful attempts to do so. This can manifest as consuming larger amounts of the substance than intended or experiencing cravings. Social impairment involves the negative consequences of substance use on various aspects of a person's life, including relationships, work, and other responsibilities. These criteria highlight how substance use can disrupt an individual’s functionality and well-being in social and personal contexts.

In contrast, other factors such as irregular sleep patterns, social acceptance of drug use, and genetic predisposition are not direct criteria for diagnosing substance use disorder according to DSM-5. While irregular sleep patterns can be a consequence of substance use, they do not represent the criteria needed for diagnosis. Furthermore, social acceptance of drug use may influence a person’s behavior but is not a clinical criterion. Lastly, genetic predisposition may contribute to an individual’s vulnerability to addiction but does not fall under the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder as defined by the DSM-5.