According to DSM-5 criteria, how many criteria within a 12-month period are required for Substance Use Disorder, and how is severity categorized?

• A. At least 1 criterion; mild 1-2, moderate 3-4, severe 5 or more.
• B. At least 3 criteria within 12 months; mild 3-4, moderate 5-6, severe 7+.
• C. At least 2 criteria within 12 months; mild 2-3, moderate 4-5, severe 6+.
• D. All 11 criteria must be met.

Answer: (C)

The essential idea is that Substance Use Disorder is a spectrum diagnosed by how many symptoms are present, not by a single sign. DSM-5 uses 11 criteria, and a diagnosis is made when at least 2 criteria are met within a 12-month period. The number of criteria endorsed then determines severity: 2–3 criteria = mild, 4–5 = moderate, 6 or more = severe. This framework captures varying levels of impairment and dependence, from a couple of troublesome behaviors to widespread problems across functioning, and it applies across different substances. The timeframe keeps the assessment focused on a recent pattern rather than lifetime history.