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Alcohol use disorder

Pattern of alcohol use that causes problems: drinking more than intended, failed attempts to control it, intense craving, tolerance or abstinence.

Common signs

Drinks more than intendedFinds it hard to cut down or stopProblems with health, work or family

Tips

For you

  1. If you drink heavily, never stop suddenly: withdrawal can be dangerous, get medical advice first
  2. Keep track of how much and when you drink
  3. Seek professional support and self-help groups

For family and friends

  1. Talk when they're sober, without blame
  2. Don't cover up the consequences or make excuses for them

When to ask for help

  1. If there is shaking or confusion when stopping: emergency services
  2. If you drink heavily, never stop suddenly: get medical advice first

Are you having a really hard time? If you're thinking of harming yourself, call 024 (free, 24 hours) or 112.

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I drink more than I intended
2. I have tried to cut down and can't
3. I spend a lot of time drinking or recovering
4. I feel a strong urge to drink
5. Drinking has caused me problems at home or at work
6. I need to drink more to feel the effect
7. If I don't drink, I shake, sweat or get nervous
8. I keep drinking even though it harms me
Also take the full alcohol use test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFull article: Alcohol useFree resource from Clínica VivaldiAlcoholics Anonymous SpainFree external resourceSpanish National Plan on Drugs: information and resourcesFree external resourceAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Cannabis use disorderAddictionsTobacco use disorderAddictionsDrug use disorder (cocaine and amphetamines)AddictionsOpioid use disorderAddictions

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.