Write an essay discussing the elements of dependence from the Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition, Alcohol Use Disorder(AUD) is defined as a maladaptive pattern of alcohol use, leading to clinical significant impairment or distress, as manifested by tolerance and withdrawal occurring at any time in the same 12-months. Identify two elements of dependence from the Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders: Diagnostic Criteria article and explain how these two elements can lead to psychosocial or environmental problems. Also, respond to two posts providing an example of psychosocial or environmental problem associated with an element of dependence identified by two classmates. Below is a list of categories of Psychosocial or Environmental Problems:•Problems with primary support group•Problems related to the social environment•Educational problems•Occupational problems•Housing problems REFERENCEShttps://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3767415/

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Substance use disorders are a serious and complex problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Dependence is a core element of substance use disorders, and it refers to the physical and psychological need for a substance to function normally. In this essay, we will discuss the elements of dependence from the diagnosis of substance use disorders.

The first element of dependence is tolerance. Tolerance occurs when a person requires an increasing amount of a substance to achieve the desired effect. This is because the body becomes accustomed to the presence of the substance, and the initial dose no longer produces the same effect. Tolerance is a sign of dependence, and it is a common feature of most substance use disorders. Individuals who develop tolerance often escalate their use of the substance to dangerous levels, putting themselves at risk of serious health consequences.

The second element of dependence is withdrawal. Withdrawal occurs when a person stops using a substance after a period of prolonged use. The body has become accustomed to the

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presence of the substance, and when it is removed, the body reacts by producing a range of physical and psychological symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they can include nausea, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, depression, and seizures. Withdrawal symptoms are a sign of dependence, and they can be a significant barrier to recovery.

The third element of dependence is cravings. Cravings refer to the intense desire to use a substance, even in the face of negative consequences. Cravings can be triggered by a range of factors, including stress, social situations, and environmental cues. Individuals with substance use disorders often experience intense cravings, which can be difficult to resist. Cravings are a sign of dependence, and they can be a significant barrier to recovery.

The fourth element of dependence is loss of control. Loss of control refers to the inability to stop using a substance, even when the person wants to. Individuals with substance use disorders often struggle to control their use of the substance, despite negative consequences such as legal, financial, or health problems. Loss of control is a sign of dependence, and it can be a significant barrier to recovery.

The final element of dependence is continued use despite negative consequences. This refers to the persistent use of a substance, even when it is causing harm to the individual’s physical or mental health, relationships, or overall well-being. Continued use despite negative consequences is a sign of dependence, and it can be a significant barrier to recovery.

In conclusion, dependence is a critical element in the diagnosis of substance use disorders. Tolerance, withdrawal, cravings, loss of control, and continued use despite negative consequences are all signs of dependence. Individuals who meet the criteria for dependence are at high risk of developing a substance use disorder and may require specialized treatment to achieve recovery. It is essential to recognize and understand the elements of dependence to provide appropriate care and support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

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