What is the difference between "substance use disorder" and "substance use"?

The distinction between "substance use" and "substance use disorder" is critical to understanding how individuals engage with substances and the potential consequences of that engagement. Substance use refers to the consumption of alcohol or drugs, which can occur in various contexts and may not always lead to problems. It can be legal and voluntary, and not all substance use leads to personal or societal harm.

On the other hand, substance use disorder is classified as a medical condition characterized by an individual's inability to stop using a substance despite its negative effects on their life. This condition typically results in significant impairment or distress, aligning with established diagnostic criteria used in psychological and medical settings. Recognizing substance use disorder as a medical condition allows for a compassionate approach to treatment, emphasizing the need for interventions that can help individuals recover rather than assigning blame for their choices regarding substance use.

This insight underscores the importance of differentiating between casual consumption of substances and the chronic, often debilitating condition of substance use disorder, which requires a comprehensive understanding and appropriate support for recovery.