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Diagnosis of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
SOCW-6090 Psychopath & Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Diagnosis
F12.20 Cannabis Use Disorder, Severe
F33.1 Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
F10.20 Alcohol Use Disorder
Z63.2 Inadequate Family Support
, 2
Z65.8 Other Psychosocial Stressors
Justification of the Diagnosis
The DSM-5 criteria describe that an individual with severe cannabis use disorder will
exhibit at least six symptoms within 12 months (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). The
symptoms include consumption of cannabis in larger amounts or on more extended periods,
persistent urge with unsuccessful effort in cutting down use, strong desire to use the substance,
continued use despite knowing the side effects, withdrawal side effects, limited physical or social
engagements caused by the substance use and continuous use that impairs normal functioning
(American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Alexander exhibited six of these symptoms, suggesting
that he has severe cannabis use disorder. For instance, he uses the drug multiple times daily, which
is an indication of recurrent use and use in large amounts. He reports that he often stays in his
room, avoiding interactions, and he also experiences irritation when he fails to use the drug,
suggesting that he is dependent on it. He also experiences withdrawal symptoms when he stops
using. He continues using the substance despite experiencing emotional and social challenges
following its use. The fact that he uses the drug multiple times a day in an attempt to control stress
suggests persistent desire and craving.
F33.1 Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
Alexander also exhibits symptoms of recurrent major depressive disorder. The DSM-5
criteria define that an individual with this disorder will exhibit at least five symptoms of depressive
mood and psychological dysfunction. The symptoms that Alexander exhibits include: low mood
and constant feeling of emptiness, which he experiences most of the day, reduced interest in
pleasure exhibited from how he self-isolates and is detached from socializing with his peers,
reports reduced appetite, especially in the morning, disturbed sleep patterns and reduced
concentration and motivation, which are symptoms of major depressive disorder (American
Diagnosis of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
SOCW-6090 Psychopath & Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Diagnosis
F12.20 Cannabis Use Disorder, Severe
F33.1 Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
F10.20 Alcohol Use Disorder
Z63.2 Inadequate Family Support
, 2
Z65.8 Other Psychosocial Stressors
Justification of the Diagnosis
The DSM-5 criteria describe that an individual with severe cannabis use disorder will
exhibit at least six symptoms within 12 months (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). The
symptoms include consumption of cannabis in larger amounts or on more extended periods,
persistent urge with unsuccessful effort in cutting down use, strong desire to use the substance,
continued use despite knowing the side effects, withdrawal side effects, limited physical or social
engagements caused by the substance use and continuous use that impairs normal functioning
(American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Alexander exhibited six of these symptoms, suggesting
that he has severe cannabis use disorder. For instance, he uses the drug multiple times daily, which
is an indication of recurrent use and use in large amounts. He reports that he often stays in his
room, avoiding interactions, and he also experiences irritation when he fails to use the drug,
suggesting that he is dependent on it. He also experiences withdrawal symptoms when he stops
using. He continues using the substance despite experiencing emotional and social challenges
following its use. The fact that he uses the drug multiple times a day in an attempt to control stress
suggests persistent desire and craving.
F33.1 Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
Alexander also exhibits symptoms of recurrent major depressive disorder. The DSM-5
criteria define that an individual with this disorder will exhibit at least five symptoms of depressive
mood and psychological dysfunction. The symptoms that Alexander exhibits include: low mood
and constant feeling of emptiness, which he experiences most of the day, reduced interest in
pleasure exhibited from how he self-isolates and is detached from socializing with his peers,
reports reduced appetite, especially in the morning, disturbed sleep patterns and reduced
concentration and motivation, which are symptoms of major depressive disorder (American
