How is a diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) established according to DSM-5 criteria?

A diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is established according to DSM-5 criteria by identifying at least two of the specified criteria over a 12-month period. These criteria reflect a range of behavioral patterns associated with opioid use, including the inability to control use, developing a tolerance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and others that indicate an adverse impact on social, occupational, or recreational activities.

Focusing on recent history emphasizes the chronic nature of the disorder and the impact it has over time, which is essential for identifying the pattern of substance use behavior that characterizes OUD. By requiring the features to be present within the past year, the DSM-5 effectively captures an ongoing problem rather than a transient issue. This time frame allows for a more accurate assessment of the disorder's influence on the individual's life and functioning, thereby supporting more tailored treatment interventions.