According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), criteria for substance use disorders, include:
• Alcohol or substance is taken in larger amounts than was intended
• Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use
• Great deal of time spent to obtain alcohol or substance/recover from its effects
• Craving, strong desire to use
• Recurrent use despite failure in fulfilling major role obligations
• Continued use despite having persistent or recurrent social and/or interpersonal problems worsened due to effects of alcohol
• Recurrent use in situations that is physically hazardous
• Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are reduced or given up due to use.
• Tolerance
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Use is continued despite knowledge of having a physical or psychological problem caused or worsened by alcohol or the substance
These indications can present at differing levels of intensity and have different consequences for each individual. Assessment is needed by a professional in order to determine best treatment and course of action. If you are wondering about your use or a loved-one’s use of alcohol or other drugs consider these questions from the CAGE Questionnaire:
Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover (eye-opener)?
If your answer is yes to one or more of these questions, please consider talking to your doctor or a counselor/mental health professional. It is important to make sure that you are not using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, escape, feel better or manage pain. It is necessary to ascertain the function of the alcohol or substances in your life, along with the amount you are consuming and the frequency. If you or someone you love has issues with alcohol or other drugs, please reach out today.
Resources:
JA Ewing. Detecting Alcoholism: The CAGE Questionnarie. 252(14): JAMA 1905-7. 1984. (via Psychology-tools.com)
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)