What are "substance-induced disorders"?

Substance-induced disorders refer to mental health conditions that manifest as a direct result of the use of substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or medications. These disorders occur when substance use leads to clinically significant psychological symptoms or exacerbates pre-existing mental health conditions. The symptoms can range from mood disturbances, anxiety, and cognitive impairments to more severe issues like psychosis.

This definition underscores the relationship between substance use and mental health, highlighting that the disorders themselves are not merely the effects of the substance's pharmacological properties but also relate to the individual's mental state while under the influence or in withdrawal. Understanding this relationship is crucial for addiction social work, as it informs treatment approaches that address both substance use and mental health concurrently, emphasizing the need for integrated interventions.

In contrast, options that imply issues stemming from recreational choices or unrelated behavioral problems do not capture the direct correlation between substance use and the specific mental health impacts that define substance-induced disorders.