Symptoms used to diagnose
The rule2+ of the 11 criteria below within 12 months. 2–3 = mild, 4–5 = moderate, 6+ = severe.
Symptoms
- Drinking more or longer than intended
- Wanting or failing to cut down
- Much time spent drinking or recovering
- Cravings
- Failing obligations
- Continuing despite relationship problems
- Giving up activities
- Drinking in risky situations
- Continuing despite health harm
- Tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms
How diagnosis works
- DSM-5-TR: 2 or more of 11 criteria within 12 months (e.g. cravings, drinking more than intended, failed attempts to cut down, tolerance, withdrawal). Severity: mild 2–3, moderate 4–5, severe 6+.
- ICD-11 distinguishes harmful pattern of use from alcohol dependence.
A diagnosis is made by a qualified clinician after a full assessment — this summary is to help you understand it, not to self-diagnose.
Commonly used medications
Therapies & support
- Motivational interviewing
- CBT
- Mutual-help groups
- Medically supervised detox
Good to know
- Stopping heavy drinking suddenly can cause dangerous withdrawal — seek medical help first.
Sources
- 01Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR)
American Psychiatric Association, 2022
- 02ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics — Chapter 6: Mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders
World Health Organization, 2022
- 03The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines
Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024