To diagnose a substance use disorder, how many criteria must be met within what time frame?

To diagnose a substance use disorder, how many criteria must be met within what time frame?

• A. At least two criteria within a 12-month period
• B. At least one criterion within a lifetime
• C. Exactly four criteria in a 6-month period
• D. Ten criteria over multiple years

Answer: (B)

To diagnose a substance use disorder, you must meet at least two of the diagnostic criteria within a 12-month period. The DSM-5 lists 11 criteria that reflect problematic patterns of use (for example, craving, tolerance, withdrawal, using more or longer than intended, failed attempts to cut down, neglecting major obligations, continued use despite interpersonal or social problems, and giving up activities). Meeting two or more within a year indicates the disorder, with severity increasing as more criteria are met (mild: 2–3, moderate: 4–5, severe: 6+). This timeframe matters because it distinguishes a pattern of problematic use from isolated or situational problems.

To diagnose a substance use disorder, you must meet at least two of the diagnostic criteria within a 12-month period. The DSM-5 lists 11 criteria that reflect problematic patterns of use (for example, craving, tolerance, withdrawal, using more or longer than intended, failed attempts to cut down, neglecting major obligations, continued use despite interpersonal or social problems, and giving up activities). Meeting two or more within a year indicates the disorder, with severity increasing as more criteria are met (mild: 2–3, moderate: 4–5, severe: 6+). This timeframe matters because it distinguishes a pattern of problematic use from isolated or situational problems.