Assessment for Substance Use Disorders

Programs that conduct an evaluation to determine whether an individual has a substance use disorder based on a pathological set of behaviours related to use of that substance as well as the nature and extent of the problem. Diagnostic criteria include inability to control or limit the amount taken or the frequency; intense cravings; continuing use despite problems with work, school or family/social obligations or interpersonal problems; risky use, e.g., diving a car or operating machinery while under the influence; or evidence of pharmacological indicators (tolerance and withdrawal symptoms), the adjustment the body makes as it attempts to adapt to the continued and frequent use of a substance.