How Is Substance Use Disorder Diagnosed?

Substance use disorder is diagnosed based on a set of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM-5 lists 11 criteria that can indicate a substance use disorder, including impaired control, social impairment, risky use, tolerance, withdrawal, and others.

To diagnose a substance use disorder, a healthcare provider will typically conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes a physical exam, a review of symptoms, a psychiatric evaluation, and laboratory tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions. The provider may also conduct a drug or alcohol screening test. The results of the assessment are used to determine the severity of the disorder and to develop an individualized treatment plan.