
Substance use and substance use disorder are alternating terms that are being used to define a specific condition, without maintaining its exact meaning. A disorder separates itself from social use in a variety of aspects.
People use substances on a variety of occasions- especially tobacco and alcohol, that carry a significance to them in social gatherings. However, if a person is not limiting his use to these occasions, it can go on to develop into a disorder.

Difference between ‘use’ and ‘disorder’
Using a substance simply indicates an occasional use, done purely to subside the curiosity towards it, or enjoying a conversation. Disorder on the other hand translates to a very serious issue of incontinence and uncontrollable urges that render a person unable to manage important aspects of their lives.
Use can also be defined as the controlled dosages of some prescribed drugs used to subside some physiological issue that induce a positive change into the body. Whereas, the same prescribed drugs when used beside prescriptions to induce euphoria and a sense of escape from one’s problems is called a disorder.
It is very important to understand that there is a very thin line between use and misuse of substances, especially when a person has lack of control and proper insight into the maladaptive habits they are moving to. To discuss the specifics of this, we have curated this blog for people who want to retrace their steps and identify if they are also moving towards a maladaptive way of developing a substance use disorder.
From social use to developing a disorder- what are the symptoms
It is important to note when your occasional drink with friends or a pill for your headache turns into a daily escape from the stress that is becoming a part of your everyday life. Some symptoms that can be noted to make an easy assumption for consultation are as follows-
- Experiencing the need to consume the substance out of compulsion
- Using the substance more than they are supposed to, and justifying it
- Facing issues physically, occupationally and financially
- Drifting from the regular activities and focusing more on consuming the substance
- Continuing the use even after experiencing psychological or physiological issues
- Feeling withdrawal symptoms in absence of substance
- Developing a specific tolerance which leads to using an increased amount of substance every time to achieve the pleasant feelings.
If you need a tentative diagnosis, you can take an easy test like a substance use differentiation questionnaire to see when an intervention can be planned.
Differentiation through diagnosis
It can be a tricky road to determining if it is actually substance use disorder. Sometimes, it happens that a person does not really develop an addiction but stands on the brink of conversion. This differentiation can be made through a proper diagnosis.
Social use of substances may actually mimic a substance use disorder, but a thin line of differences marks a huge gap. Consulting a professional like a psychiatrist for alcohol addiction can make the situation clear. Any interventions needed to curb such behavior can also be applied at the diagnostic stage.
- A thorough interview and assessment of the client
- Extensive history taking from the client and his/her family and close ones.
- Identifying the correct diagnostic criteria through ICD and DSM to determine actual condition and the level of progression of the problem.
- Physical and psychological tests to determine the intensity and extent of use
Through a diagnosis, it becomes easy for the client and their caregivers to understand the intensity of their consumption and rule out the possibility of a disorder.
Preventing substance use disorder
Social use is a part of a culture that usually begins at home, or with pressure from the peers that usually turns into an enjoyable activity over time. It is not necessarily harmful, if performed occasionally in a controlled manner. It is, though, not promoted in any way, but having an insight into the level of use is necessary.
It is important to raise awareness at a grass root level. Adolescents, children and adults should be made aware of the ill effects of these substances through an open discussion in the family setting, allowing them to understand the problem and removing the taboo behind such conversations. If not, proper arrangements to psychoeducate can be made through a combined setup with psychologists and psychiatrists with structured orientation sessions.
For people who are already using substances, an intervention can only make a marked difference. Psychoeducation can be given, but that will only act as a buffer for a short time. Addiction is far from rational criticisms, so it is better to consult an expert who can make an actual difference in the lives of the people affected by substance use disorder. Only with such a significant positive change, they can actually connect with rational ideas, and educate themselves to strive for the better.
Trying a substance or using it occasionally can become a precursor to a disorder apart from the genetic, environmental and individual factors. So it is necessary for individuals to have an insight and work towards actively surpassing their curiosity with information.
Looking for help on such matters? Connect with us.
What will this differentiation mean for you? If you have stumbled upon this blog, it means that you are definitely concerned about yourselves or your loved ones well being. Since you have an insight on the progression of such blatant use of substances, this blog comes as a resource for you to take the necessary steps and progress towards a healthier life. Connecting with an expert like Dr. Gorav Gupta will help you understand your current concerns and the interventions that can help you reverse the physical and psychological damage that could have led to a substance abuse disorder.
To know more on how we can be of help in cases of early intervention and transformation, visit our facility today, or book a consultation with the Best Psychiatrist in Delhi .