The person recognizes excessive use of the substance and may have tried to reduce it but has been unable to do so. Much of the person's time is spent in efforts to obtain the substance or recover from its effects. The person is intoxicated or suffering from withdrawal symptoms at times when responsibilities need to be fulfilled, as school or work. Many activities are given up or reduced in frequency because of the use of the substance. Problems in health, social relationships, and psychological functioning occur.
Withdrawal symptoms develop when the person stops ingesting substances or reduces the amount.
The person uses the substance to relieve withdrawal symptoms. For example, one may drink alcohol early in the morning because one feels withdrawal symptoms coming on. Recurrent use in situation in which use is physically hazardous. For example, driving while intoxicated. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , 4th Edition.