At least 2 of the following 11 criteria over a 12-month period:
Impaired control
The substance is used in larger amounts or for longer than intended
Unsuccessful efforts or desire to cut back or control substance use
Excessive amount of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance
Craving to use the substance
Social impairment
Failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home as a result of recurrent substance use
Persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems that are exacerbated by the substance or continued use of the substance despite these problems
Reduced or given up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of the substance use
Risky use
Substance use in physically hazardous situations
Continued substance use despite knowledge of persistent physical or psychological problem that is likely caused by the substance
Pharmacological properties
Tolerance, as demonstrated by increased amounts of the substance needed to achieve desired effect; diminished effect with continued use of the same amount
Withdrawal, as demonstrated by symptoms of withdrawal syndromes; substances taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal
Severity based on number of criteria
Mild: 2 to 3
Moderate: 4 to 5
Severe: 6 or more
Other terms
Early remission: 3 to 12 months not meeting any above criteria (except craving)
Sustained remission: 12 or more months not meeting any above criteria (except craving)
Maintenance therapy: on prescription methadone or buprenorphine and non of the criteria are met for that medication
Controlled environment: in an environment where substances are restricted
Management
See specific substance use disorders for more information
Breaking Free Online is a free online support tool designed to help Ontarians ages 16 and up reduce or stop the use of over 70 substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, opioids, and other recreational drugs
