What term describes the pattern of substance use that results in significant impairment or distress?

The term that describes the pattern of substance use resulting in significant impairment or distress is Substance Use Disorder. This designation encapsulates a range of problematic behaviors associated with substance use, including loss of control over usage, cravings, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Substance Use Disorder is classified in severity based on the number of criteria met, which can reflect mild, moderate, or severe levels of impairment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines these criteria, emphasizing that the disorder is characterized by a detrimental impact on an individual's social, occupational, and personal functioning. This comprehensive understanding allows for better assessment and treatment approaches.

The other terms, while related, do not capture the full scope of the pattern of use that leads to significant impairment or distress. Substance Abuse is often seen as a previous concept that does not meet the current criteria for diagnosing, Substance Dependency refers more to physiological reliance on a substance rather than the broader behavioral and psychological patterns, and Substance Intoxication specifically refers to the immediate effects of substance use rather than a chronic pattern leading to distress or impairment.