Labels that describe how many DSM-5 criteria someone meets for a given substance.
In the context of addiction treatment:
The severity level helps pick an appropriate level of care and guides treatment planning.
What to know:
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Mild SUD still matters—early help can prevent severe progression.
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Severe SUD often points toward more intensive care (residential, MAT, etc.).
Example:
Someone who drinks daily, has withdrawal, can’t cut down, and keeps drinking despite job problems may be diagnosed with Severe Alcohol Use Disorder.