Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam 2025 - Free Psychiatry Board Practice Questions and Study Guide

Substance Use Disorder is defined by the continued use of a substance despite significant adverse consequences and involves various criteria, including the presence of withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. Withdrawal symptoms can be physical and psychological and vary depending on the specific substance involved.

These symptoms reflect the body's physical adaptation to the substance, and discontinuation can lead to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous effects. For instance, opioid withdrawal may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and anxiety, while alcohol withdrawal can lead to serious complications like delirium tremens.

The recognition of withdrawal symptoms is crucial in diagnosing Substance Use Disorder, as it indicates the physiological dependence on the substance. Treatment often requires a careful consideration of these withdrawal symptoms to ensure a safe and effective withdrawal process.

The other disorders listed do not typically involve physical withdrawal symptoms associated with substance cessation. Generalized Anxiety Disorder may involve anxiety symptoms but is not characterized by withdrawal; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder pertains to trauma responses without substance-related withdrawal; and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder focuses on intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors rather than substance use and withdrawal.