US Medical Term · mental-health
Substance Use Disorder
Trastorno por uso de sustancias
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Substance Use Disorder |
| Spanish (Español) | Trastorno por uso de sustancias |
| Chinese (中文) | 物質使用障礙 |
| Korean (한국어) | 물질 사용 장애 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Rối loạn sử dụng chất |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Substance use disorder |
| Portuguese (Português) | Transtorno por uso de substâncias |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | โรคการใช้สารเสพติด |
| Japanese (日本語) | 物質使用障害 |
What it means
Substance use disorder is a medical condition in which a person's use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances causes significant health problems, distress, or impairs their ability to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home. It is not a moral failing — it is a chronic brain condition that responds to treatment. Symptoms include strong cravings, loss of control over use, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences. Treatment may include behavioral therapy, support groups, and medication. In the US, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline at 1-800-662-4357 can connect you with local treatment resources confidentially at no cost.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I have a substance use disorder and I am looking for a treatment program that accepts my insurance.
Tengo un trastorno por uso de sustancias y estoy buscando un programa de tratamiento que acepte mi seguro.
My doctor mentioned medication-assisted treatment for my substance use disorder — can you explain what that involves?
Mi médico mencionó el tratamiento con medicamentos para mi trastorno por uso de sustancias — ¿puede explicarme en qué consiste?
Is inpatient rehabilitation covered under my health plan for substance use disorder?
¿La rehabilitación hospitalaria está cubierta bajo mi plan de salud para el trastorno por uso de sustancias?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
F19 Other psychoactive substance related disordersRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026