The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) is the most commonly used diagnostic manual for mental health professionals. It is an official publication of the American Psychiatric Association and is used to diagnose and classify mental disorders. The DSM-5 does not explicitly define addiction, but it does provide criteria to diagnose Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). These criteria include a pattern of recurrent and compulsive use of a substance that leads to significant impairment or distress. In addition, the DSM-5 provides criteria to diagnose behavioral addictions, such as gambling disorder.
Substance Use Disorders
The DSM-5 defines Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) as a “clinically significant syndrome resulting from the repeated use of alcohol or other drugs.” A person with a SUD will experience cravings, withdrawal symptoms, tolerance, and compulsive use of the substance. A person with a SUD may also experience impaired control over their use of the substance and negative consequences as a result of their use. The DSM-5 includes criteria for diagnosing a mild, moderate, or severe SUD, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
Behavioral Addictions
The DSM-5 also includes criteria for diagnosing behavioral addictions, such as gambling disorder. In order to diagnose a behavioral addiction, a person must exhibit a pattern of persistent and recurrent behavior that leads to significant distress or impairment. The DSM-5 also outlines criteria for diagnosing other types of behavioral addictions, such as internet gaming disorder and shopping addiction.
In conclusion, the DSM-5 does define addiction, though it does not use the term explicitly. Instead, the DSM-5 provides criteria for diagnosing Substance Use Disorders and behavioral addictions.