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Alcohol

Alcohol dependence is a substance use disorder characterized by the continued use of alcohol despite knowledge of significant cognitive, behavioral, or physiological problems that are caused or made worse by use of the substance. Symptoms of alcohol dependence include:

  • Increased amounts of alcohol are needed to achieve intoxication (tolerance)
  • Use of alcohol in larger amounts or over longer periods than intended
  • Repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use

Alcohol abuse is a substance use disorder characterized by the continued use of alcohol despite recurrent and significant adverse consequences related to the repeated use of the substance. Symptoms of alcohol abuse include:

  • Recurrent alcohol use in situations in which it is physically hazardous
  • Failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
  • Recurrent alcohol-related legal problems

How Mindsite can help

Get diagnosed online - take our free survey Ask the community - ask questions and get answers View articles and videos - browse related content posted by the Mindsite community Research signs and symptoms - Read the criteria professionals use to diagnose this disorder

Find out if you show symptoms of alcohol by taking our free online survey or reading the full DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with alcohol, get free information and advice from the Mindsite community by reading original articles or asking a question.