Decoding Diagnosis: Understanding Substance Use Disorders with Dr. Julian Keats
A diagnosis is when a doctor uses a specific medical term to name or label a disease, disorder or condition. So the diagnosis conveys information about the disease process that the doctor thinks is going on, including its cause and its symptoms.
Ever wondered how doctors determine if someone has a substance use disorder? Dr. Julian Keats is here to break it down for you. In this episode of 'Addiction in Simple Terms', Dr. Keats explains the difference between addiction, dependence, and substance use disorders. While 'addiction' isn't often used in formal diagnoses, terms like Substance Dependence or Substance Use Disorder are more common. Dr.
Keats dives into the criteria used by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), shedding light on how these diagnoses are made. One key takeaway? The difference between addiction and dependence. Dependence is about physical reliance on a substance, while addiction involves a strong internal drive to keep using, even when it’s harmful. Dr.
Keats also discusses the importance of early intervention and how understanding these diagnostic criteria can lead to better recovery outcomes. He covers withdrawal, tolerance, and drug-seeking behavior, emphasizing that recognizing these signs early can make a huge difference. Dr. Keats also touches on pharmacological criteria, explaining how substances affect the body and what that means for treatment options.
This episode is packed with practical information and offers a sense of hope for anyone grappling with substance use or supporting someone who is. Tune in for a straightforward, compassionate look at diagnosing substance use disorders.