The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is a comprehensive manual developed by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) to provide standardised criteria for diagnosing mental health disorders.
It serves as a universal guide for clinicians and researchers, offering detailed descriptions, symptoms, and diagnostic features of a wide range of psychiatric conditions. The DSM-IV was used globally to ensure consistency in diagnosis, treatment planning, and research before being replaced by the DSM-5 in 2013.
In relation to substance use disorders, the DSM-IV categorised these into substance abuse and substance dependence, both defined by maladaptive patterns of substance use leading to significant impairment or distress.
Sources: ProjectKnow; Recovery Research Institute; HRB