According to the American Psychiatric Association, what best describes substance use disorders?

Substance use disorders are indeed best described as an umbrella term that encompasses both substance abuse and substance dependence. This classification acknowledges the spectrum of issues individuals may face in relation to their use of substances, including alcohol and drugs.

Substance abuse refers to a pattern of using a substance that leads to significant impairment or distress, while substance dependence involves a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using a substance despite experiencing problems related to its use. By using an umbrella term, the definition incorporates the various ways in which substance use can negatively affect a person's life, including physical health, mental well-being, social relations, and overall functioning.

The other options do not accurately capture the complexity of substance use disorders. For instance, not all individuals with substance use disorders experience tolerance or withdrawal symptoms, as some may engage in harmful patterns without these specific criteria being met. Furthermore, having a medical reason for taking a substance does not inherently imply a disorder; it may reflect responsible medical use. Therefore, defining substance use disorders as an umbrella term provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the diverse manifestations of these disorders.