Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders

What is the definition of a Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?

A cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite significant substance-related problems. (Applies to all classes except caffeine)

Explain the mechanisms of developing an SUD (Reward System/Self-Control).

Reward System: All drugs activate the brain reward system so intensely that normal activities are neglected. Low Self-Control: Individuals with low self-control may be predisposed, reflecting impairments in brain inhibitory mechanisms.

List the four main criteria groupings for SUD in short.

Impaired Control, Social Impairment, Risky Use, and Pharmacological Criteria (Tolerance and Withdrawal)

What are the two pharmacological criteria and when are they NOT counted?

Tolerance (increased dose for desired effect or reduced effect from usual dose) and Withdrawal (syndrome from cessation/reduction of use). NOT counted if symptoms occur during appropriate medical treatment with prescribed medications

How do you recognize Substance Intoxication?

Development of a reversible substance-specific syndrome due to recent ingestion, with clinically significant problematic behavioral/psychological changes due to CNS effects, occurring during or shortly after use. (Does not apply to tobacco) .

How do you recognize Substance Withdrawal?

Development of a substance-specific problematic behavioral change (with physiological/cognitive concomitants) that is due to the cessation of, or reduction in, heavy and prolonged substance use.

What is the definition of disorders due to addictive behaviors?

Clinically significant syndromes resulting from repetitive rewarding behaviors other than substance use.

What is the core definition for Gambling/Gaming Disorder and main treatment type?

Core Definition: Persistent pattern of behavior (online/offline) with Impaired Control; Increasing Priority over daily activities; and Continuation/Escalation despite negative consequences (must last ≥12 months). Main Treatment: Behavioral Therapies (e.g., CBT, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, TSF).