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Addiction - Diagnosis

Alexey Kryvenko, medical expert
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025

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Diagnostic criteria for addiction (according to DSM-IV)

The pattern of substance use causes clinically significant impairment or distress, as demonstrated by at least three of the following symptoms occurring simultaneously for 12 months.

Tolerance
Withdrawal syndrome
The substance is often taken in higher doses or for longer periods of time than intended
A persistent desire or unsuccessful attempt to reduce or control substance use
The actions of obtaining the substance (such as visiting multiple doctors or traveling long distances), using the substance, or recovering from its effects take up a significant amount of time
Due to substance use, participation in important social, occupational, or recreational activities is prevented or significantly limited
Continued use of the substance despite knowledge of persistent or recurring physical or psychological disorders that are caused or exacerbated by the substance being used (e.g., continued use of cocaine despite knowledge that it causes depression, or continued use of alcohol despite knowledge that it has worsened a peptic ulcer)

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