Alcohol Use Disorder
A pattern of alcohol use that leads to significant impairment or distress, ranging from mild to severe.
Overview
Alcohol use disorder involves a problematic pattern of alcohol consumption leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, including difficulty controlling use despite negative consequences.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs can include drinking more or longer than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, cravings, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued drinking despite social, occupational, or health problems. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic vulnerability, family history, mental health conditions, and environmental and social factors are each associated with increased risk.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and structured programs have evidence supporting their use.
Medication
Certain medications are FDA-approved to support treatment of alcohol use disorder and may be used alongside counseling to reduce cravings or relapse risk. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Alcohol Use Disorder
Ongoing support such as counseling or peer support groups, and addressing co-occurring conditions, can support sustained recovery.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships. Alcohol withdrawal can be medically serious; professional guidance is recommended before stopping heavy or long-term use.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Alcohol use disorder is treatable, and many people achieve sustained recovery with appropriate support.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.