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

Substance use disorder encompasses a broader range of problems related to substance use and includes various aspects of a person’s interaction with substances. This classification captures both the behavioral and the physiological symptoms that can arise from substance use, reflecting not only the individual's dependence or withdrawal symptoms but also the social, mental, and emotional consequences of substance use.

Unlike substance dependence, which is primarily focused on the chronic aspects related to tolerance and withdrawal, substance use disorder incorporates a wider spectrum of issues including social consequences, impaired control over substance use, and continued use despite negative consequences. This distinction is critical in understanding the severity of a person's situation and guiding treatment approaches, as it addresses the comprehensive impact of substance use on the individual’s life.