Alcohol dependence

Alcohol dependence is a specific psychological state characterized by a craving for alcohol due to repeated or continuous alcohol consumption, as well as specific psychological and physical reactions (withdrawal syndrome) that occur after reducing or stopping drinking. It is primarily characterized by a strong desire for alcohol, leading to impaired control over alcohol use, alcohol use taking precedence over other activities, and continued use despite alcohol-related harm or adverse consequences. Alcohol dependence can occur continuously or periodically and includes both psychological and physical dependence. Psychological dependence: The individual's subjective strong craving for alcohol. When psychological dependence is strong and the craving for alcohol is difficult to control, it has diagnostic value for alcohol dependence. Physical dependence: When alcohol consumption is stopped or significantly reduced, a series of withdrawal symptoms appear, requiring repeated use of alcohol or pharmacologically similar substances to alleviate these symptoms. Physical dependence also includes increased tolerance to alcohol. The above characteristics of alcohol dependence usually need to be significant and persistent for at least 12 months, but if alcohol use is continuous (daily or almost daily), at least 1 month is required for a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. Single harmful use of alcohol and harmful patterns of alcohol use do not constitute alcohol dependence.