Ace the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam 2026 – Conquer Your Counseling Career with Confidence!

Substance use disorders are characterized by an individual's compulsive consumption of substances, despite experiencing negative consequences as a result of their use. This compulsion often leads to a pattern of behavior that prioritizes the obtaining and using of substances over other aspects of life, resulting in significant impairment or distress. Individuals with substance use disorders may continue to use substances in larger amounts or for a longer duration than intended, struggle to cut down or control their use, and experience cravings or a strong desire to use.

In contrast, casual use of substances often involves moderate consumption without adverse consequences, infrequent use does not indicate a pattern of dependence, and social drinking behaviors typically refer to responsible drinking within social settings without the compulsive drive indicative of a disorder. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying substance use disorders and providing appropriate support and interventions.