What significant change did the DSM-5 make regarding the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder?

The DSM-5 introduced a significant shift in the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder by including craving as a key symptom. Craving is defined as a strong desire or urge to use a substance, which underscores the psychological component of addiction and aids clinicians in understanding the severity of a patient's condition.

This inclusion reflects a broader understanding of the disorder, considering the complex interplay between psychological dependence and physical dependency. Furthermore, by excluding recurrent legal problems from the criteria, the DSM-5 emphasizes that substance use disorders can exist independently of legal issues, thus focusing more on the substance use itself and its impact on various areas of life rather than solely on the consequences stemming from those behaviors.

This change marks a movement towards a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to diagnosing substance use disorders, acknowledging that craving can significantly affect a person’s ability to control their substance use and recover from addiction.