What is Use Disorder?

Use disorder is a medical term for addiction to a substance like drugs or alcohol. It describes a pattern where the person keeps using the substance despite knowing it’s causing harm to their health, relationships, or responsibilities.

A person with a use disorder may show cravings, loss of control, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop. Use disorders can range from mild to severe, depending on how much and how often the substance is used.

Early signs include lying about use, risky behavior, and continued use even when it causes problems. With support and treatment, recovery is possible at any stage.

Split scene of person using drugs on one side and attending rehab group on the other, symbolizing use disorder and recovery

👉 For more educational content, see our Drug Education & Prevention Materials

❓Frequently Asked Questions about Use Disorder

1. What is use disorder used for?
It’s a medical term used to diagnose substance addiction.

2. Why is use disorder dangerous?
It can lead to health decline, broken relationships, job loss, and overdose.

3. What does it look like?
Repeated drug use, denial, withdrawal symptoms, and loss of control.

4. Can someone recover from use disorder?
Yes. Many people recover with the right support and long-term help.

5. How can someone know if they have it?
If drug use causes problems but continues anyway, it may be a use disorder.