Tools For Further Assessment of Alcohol Misuse
Criteria for alcohol use or dependence
DSM-IV Alcohol Abuse (1 or more criteria > 1 year)
- Role impairment (e.g. failed work or home obligations)
- Hazardous use (e.g. Driving while intoxicated)
- Legal problems related to alcohol use
- Social or interpersonal problems due to alcohol
DSM-IV Alcohol Dependence (3 criteria > 1 year)
- Tolerance (increased drinking to achieve same effect)
- Alcohol withdrawal signs or symptoms
- Drinking more than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down on use
- Excessive time related to alcohol (obtaining, hangover)
- Impaired social or work activities due to alcohol
- Use despite physical or psychological consequences
Assess Alcohol Use
- Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) (PDF)* - World Health Organization
- AUDIT Questions - National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
- Assess Readiness to Change
- Helping Patients Who Drink Too Much (NIAAA Pocket Guide) (PDF) - National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Resources for Patients
- AlcoholScreening.org (self assessment)
- Drinker's Check-up.com (self assessment)
- Alcoholics Anonymous National Website
- Effects of Alcohol on the Body