Which disorder is defined by psychotic symptoms that are linked to substance use or withdrawal?

• A. Delusional Disorder
• B. Substance/Med Induced Psychotic Disorder
• C. Schizophrenia
• D. Bipolar Disorder with psychotic features

Answer: (B)

Psychotic symptoms that occur in the context of substance use or withdrawal are best explained by Substance/Med Induced Psychotic Disorder. The key feature is that the psychosis—such as delusions or hallucinations—develops during or soon after substance use or during withdrawal, and there is evidence tying the symptoms to the substance. Importantly, the psychotic symptoms are not better explained by a primary psychotic disorder and typically improve or remit as the substance is cleared or abstinence is maintained.

This distinguishes it from primary psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, where psychosis is not tied to substance use, and from mood disorders with psychotic features, where psychosis occurs specifically within mood episodes. So the scenario described fits Substance/Med Induced Psychotic Disorder because the psychosis is linked to the substance use or withdrawal rather than being an independent, ongoing psychotic illness.