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Alcohol Dependence
A substance dependence that is characterized by tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, increasing use, persistent desire to decrease consumption, time spent obtaining or recovering from alcohol caused by a physical and psycholo
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
Get help now
If you are thinking about ending your life or hurting yourself, you do not have to carry it alone. Help exists right now, and reaching for it is not an overreaction.
- In the US: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Free, confidential, answered 24 hours a day. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org.
- Outside the US: call your local emergency number - 911 in the US, 999 in the UK, 112 in the EU - or find the crisis line for your country at findahelpline.com.
- If you have already hurt yourself or taken something: call emergency services now. Do not wait to see whether it gets worse.
What happens when you call - and what to do if you are worried about someone else.
When to seek help
Seek medical help right away if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any symptom that feels life-threatening. This community is for peer support and education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
What is alcohol use disorder (AUD)? For most adults, moderate alcohol use is probably not harmful. Your risk of developing an alcohol use disorder (AUD) depends on how much, how often, and how quickly you drink alcohol. Alcohol misuse means that drinking causes distress and harm. Over time alcohol misuse can increase your risk of AUD. AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms. Severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence. AUD is a disease that causes: Craving - a strong need to drink Loss of control - not being able to stop drinking once you've started Negative emotional state - feeling anxious and irritable when you are not drinking What is binge…
Join the Alcohol Dependence community
Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with alcohol dependence. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.