The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines alcohol use disorder as a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to significant impairment or distress. The DSM-5 outlines 11 criteria that must be met for a person to be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. The severity of alcohol use disorder is determined by the number of criteria that are met.
The DSM-5 defines mild alcohol use disorder as meeting two to three of the 11 criteria, moderate alcohol use disorder as meeting four to five criteria, and severe alcohol use disorder as meeting six or more criteria. Each of the 11 criteria is described in detail below.
1. Having an increased tolerance to alcohol.
2. A desire or compulsion to drink.
3. Drinking more or for longer periods of time than intended.
4. A strong urge to drink alcohol.
5. Being unable to stop or reduce drinking despite repeated efforts.
6. Drinking despite social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by alcohol use.
7. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities due to alcohol use.
8. Drinking alcohol in hazardous situations such as driving or operating machinery.
9. Drinking alcohol even if it is causing health problems.
10. Developing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is not consumed.
11. Drinking alcohol despite knowing that it is causing or worsening a physical or psychological problem.
The number of drinks per day or per week is not the only factor that determines whether someone has alcohol use disorder. It is the pattern of alcohol use that is more important. For example, someone who drinks a lot but only on weekends and not at all during the week might not meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder, while someone who drinks more moderately but has trouble controlling their drinking and experiences withdrawal symptoms might meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
It’s essential to keep in mind that the number of drinks per day or per week is not a fixed number and can vary based on age, weight, gender, and overall health. In general, for a man, consuming more than two drinks per day or more than 14 drinks per week is considered harmful. For a woman, consuming more than one drink per day or more than seven drinks per week is considered harmful. However, it is important to note that even a small amount of alcohol can have negative consequences for some individuals, and alcohol use disorder can manifest even with a low intake. Additionally, heavy drinking is associated with a higher risk of developing alcohol use disorder. It is crucial to always consult with a healthcare professional to determine a safe and healthy level of alcohol consumption for an individual.
In summary, alcohol use disorder is not defined by a specific number of drinks per day or per week, but rather by a pattern of alcohol use that causes significant impairment or distress. The severity of the disorder is determined by the number of criteria met, with mild alcohol use disorder being characterized by meeting two to three criteria, moderate by four to five criteria, and severe by meeting six or more criteria. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine a safe and healthy level of alcohol consumption and to monitor one’s alcohol use and its potential impact on their physical and mental health.
