Which term refers to a state in which the symptoms of a substance use disorder are reduced or absent?

• A. Remission
• B. Risk factor
• C. Shame
• D. Sober

Answer: (A)

Remission describes a state in which the symptoms of a substance use disorder are reduced or absent. Clinically, it means the person no longer meets most of the diagnostic criteria for the disorder, and functioning has improved. Remission can be categorized as early (no criteria for a period of 3 to 12 months) or sustained (no criteria for 12 months or longer). The term captures the idea that the disorder is not currently active.

The other terms don’t fit this diagnostic status. A risk factor is something that increases the chance of developing SUD, not a current symptom state. Shame is an emotional reaction, not a description of the disorder’s status. Sober refers to abstaining from use, which doesn’t by itself indicate that the diagnostic criteria are no longer met.