How does substance use differ from substance use disorder?

Substance use refers to the act of consuming substances, which can include both legal and illegal drugs, and may range from casual, social use to more frequent consumption. It is a broad category that does not necessarily imply any negative consequences for the user. In contrast, substance use disorder is a clinical diagnosis characterized by a pattern of problematic use that leads to significant impairment or distress. This distinction emphasizes that not all substance use leads to a disorder; only when use becomes problematic and meets specific diagnostic criteria does it evolve into a disorder.

This understanding highlights the nature of substance use as a potentially normal behavior while recognizing that substance use disorder involves a more serious situation that requires evaluation and possible intervention. The clinical criteria used to diagnose a substance use disorder include a range of factors such as tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences, which are not applicable to casual or recreational substance use.