Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

The minimum duration required for a diagnosis of Stimulant Use Disorder is indeed 12 months. This timeframe is aligned with the diagnostic criteria established in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). According to the DSM-5, the criteria for Stimulant Use Disorder must be met over a period of 12 months to ensure that the pattern of substance use is persistent and not merely a temporary increase in use.

This 12-month duration helps to distinguish between casual or occasional use of stimulants and a more serious, problematic pattern that indicates a disorder. It allows for a thorough assessment of the individual’s behavior and the impact of the substance use on their daily life, functioning, and overall health. By requiring this length of time, clinicians can better evaluate the severity and chronicity of the disorder, which is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

In contrast, the other durations listed do not meet the established criteria for a formal diagnosis of Stimulant Use Disorder, thus reinforcing the importance of the correct 12-month timeframe.