What are the DSM-5-TR criteria for Substance Use Disorder?

• A. At least two of 11 criteria within a 12-month period (impaired control, social impairment, risky use, pharmacological symptoms); severity rated by number of criteria.
• B. Exactly five criteria must be met.
• C. Criteria are defined by duration of abstinence only.
• D. There is no standardized criteria set.

Answer: (A)

Diagnosing Substance Use Disorder in DSM-5-TR is about meeting a set number of criteria within a specific time frame, not about a single symptom or just how long someone has used. There are 11 criteria, grouped into four areas: impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological symptoms (tolerance and withdrawal). To receive the diagnosis, a person must meet at least two of these criteria within a 12-month period. The more criteria that are met, the greater the severity: 2–3 is mild, 4–5 is moderate, and 6 or more is severe. This approach uses a spectrum rather than a single “abuse” or “dependence” label and focuses on patterns of use that cause distress or impairment.