Diagnosis of Addictive Disorders

Although advanced technologies such as neuroimaging can visualise brain changes associated with chronic substance use, diagnosis is still primarily clinical. This means that the basis of the diagnosis is a comprehensive interview with the affected person, supplemented by information from their support network (e.g., family, friends and close contacts). 

During this evaluation, the impact of use on physical, psychological and social dimensions is explored from a gender perspective. This enables assessment of how factors such as discrimination, gender violence or unequal caregiving burdens affect the development and treatment of the disorder. Women are often subject to greater social stigma related to substance use, which may delay help-seeking and limit access to treatment services. Diagnosis must take these barriers into account and adapt interventions to be inclusive and sensitive to the needs of each person, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation or sociocultural context. 

In addition to the clinical interview, supplementary tests such as laboratory analyses or validated questionnaires are used to assess the severity of the disorder, associated comorbidities and the individual’s specific needs. This approach makes it possible to design a personalised treatment plan focused on improving quality of life and promoting recovery.