b'O P E R A T I O N SB E H A V I O R A LAccording to the American Psychiatric Association, a H E A LT H substance use disorder involves patterns of symptoms caused by using a substance that an individual continues taking despite its negative effects. Based on decades of research, there are 11 criteria that can arise from substance misuse. These criteria fall under four basic categories: impaired control, physical dependence, social problems and risky use:Using more of a substance than intended or using it for longer than youre meant to.Trying to cut down or stop using the substance but being unable to.Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use the substance.Needing more of the substance to get the desired effect also called tolerance.Developing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.Spending more time getting and using drugs and recovering from substance use.Neglecting responsibilities at home, work or school because of substance use.Continuing to use even when it causes relationship problems.Giving up important or desirable social and recreational activities due to substance use.Using substances in risky settings that put you in danger.Continuing to use despite the substance causing problems to your physical and mental health.BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS Like other illnesses, substance use disorder worsens over Behavioral health problems involve negative changes intime. The criteria above allow clinicians to determine how severe our behavior, thoughts and emotions, often accompanyinga substance use disorder has become depending on how many increased psychological stress. These issues can range fromsymptoms are present. For example:mild symptoms to debilitating mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders. or addiction. They can haveOne symptom could indicate an individual is at risk.a significant impact on our lives, so it is important to understandTwo or three criteria point to a mild substance use disorder.the different types of behavioral health problems in order toFour or five criteria show someone has a moderate substance get the best treatment possible. Below are some of the mostuse disorder.common problems affecting fire fighters. Six or more criteria indicate a severe substance use disorder, Substance Use Disorder which signals an addiction to that substance.Substance use disorder is a mental health disorder that canKnowing how severe a substance use disorder is can help have lifelong effects on an individuals physical, emotional,physicians and addiction specialists determine the best course of spiritual, social and mental well-being. It is characterized by antreatment for the individual.uncontrollable urge to use drugs or alcohol despite the negative consequences and can develop into addiction. These disorders involve the misuse, abuse, and dependency on drugs or alcohol, which can lead to a variety of physical, psychological and social l42% reported binge drinking in the past month.problems. Because addiction is a progressive disease, if leftl7% of the fire fighters screened positive for current PTSD. untreated, a person will continue to deteriorate. Substance use l disorders can range from mild to severe and can be caused16% screened positive for current depression.by a variety of factors such as genetics, environment, lifestylel 39% with likely PTSD or depression reported never havingchoices and external stressors. It is important to understand theseen a mental health professional.signs of substance use disorder to identify them early and seek appropriate treatment. Source: Washington Firefighter Survey 2018 Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program Washington State Department of Labor and Industries3 2'