You can better comprehend your child's conduct by understanding the DSM-5 diagnosis of substance abuse disorder, which sheds light on the physiological and psychological repercussions of addiction.1 Additionally, it can offer information on how to best support your child's recovery, including learning about treatment alternatives and understanding relapse triggers and withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, it is advantageous for you to have more knowledge about the nature of the fentanyl found on the streets so you will be better able to spot if and when your child is using or at risk of using this harmful substance.
Addiction is a "substance use disorder" that is characterized by cravings, impaired control over substance use, and compulsive use despite the damage, according to the most recent edition of the DSM-5 issued by the American Psychiatric Association.1 As a parent, you will notice even early use of fentanyl in your teen or young adult. You will observe a collection of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological indicators that show that your child is abusing the substance despite serious problems. The following are among the 11 characteristics of substance abuse disorder.1
1. Taking the substance in more significant amounts or for longer than intended.
2. Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control the use of the substance.
3. Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of the substance.
4. Craving for the substance or increased tolerance to it over time (needing more to get the same effect).
5. Failure to fulfill significant obligations at work, school, or home due to recurrent use of substances.
6. Continued use despite the knowledge that it is causing physical and psychological problems such as relationship issues, financial difficulties, etc.
7. Giving up important activities because of substance abuse (e.g., socializing with friends).
8. Using the substance in hazardous situations (e.g., driving while under the influence).
9. Continuing to use despite physical or psychological problems caused by or worsened by the substance.
10. Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shaking, etc., when stopping substance use.
11. Needing more of the substance to get the desired effect (tolerance).
Based on these 11 criteria, the DSM-5 divides substance abuse disorder into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. A mild substance abuse disorder satisfies two or three of the list's requirements; a moderate substance use disorder is one that satisfies four or five of the list's requirements; a severe substance use disorder is one that satisfies six or more of the list's requirements.1
The DSM-5 provides a more open perspective on substance use disorders and acknowledges that abuse without dependency is possible. The DSM-5 takes this perspective so that the effects of a person's actions and behavior related to their drug use are more broadly considered and their patterns of illicit drug use can be better evaluated.
While DSM-5 may take an open perspective on substance use, the use of street-based fentanyl should not be tolerated for any reason – especially in teens and young adults.
Investigating whether their way of life has damaged them or others, such as by increasing their chance of contracting a blood-borne infection or partaking in unsafe sexual behaviors, is necessary to accomplish this evaluative goal.
The 11 aforementioned criteria can also be used to determine whether a person's usage has disrupted family roles and obligations, caused legal, interpersonal, occupational, academic, or medical issues, or been the cause of preoccupation with getting and using the substance while ignoring other activities.
When assessing your child’s substance usage, it's important to determine whether they have experienced tolerance, withdrawal, or urges. The DSM-5 is a resource useful for you to comprehend your child's behavior and spot any possible concerns associated with drug use. A person can intervene early before addiction has a chance to take hold if they know the warning signs and symptoms of substance use.
You can improve your ability to recognize your child's drug use by familiarizing yourself with the DSM-5 criteria, which can help you understand the severity of the problem and the need for professional assistance or treatment. This knowledge can also help you act sooner and prevent further harm to your child's health and well-being. You, as a family, can work together for a loved one's effective recovery by addressing substance addiction disorders at an early stage.
As a medical provider, let me reiterate here that street-based fentanyl is a powerful opioid with the potential to quickly cause drug dependence and addiction, which you should be aware of. Your child, should they become addicted to street-based fentanyl, will seek to increase their daily dosing due to their body’s increasing tolerance to the substance. The withdrawal symptoms patients go through when trying to stop using fentanyl are severe, so your child will continue using it to avoid these withdrawals. To act quickly and effectively, you must be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction and dependence.
Reference
American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
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