You assess J.G.'s history of alcohol use by talking to J.G. and his brother and conclude that he is showing indications of alcohol use disorder

Question

Name the criteria for alcohol use disorder as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual of Mental Disorders,Fifth Edition (DSM-V) and put an asterisk or star next to the
ones J.G. demonstrates.

• Drinking that interferes with important activities*
Based on the DSM-V criteria, how would you rate the severity of J.G.'s alcohol use? Explain
your decision.
a. No problem
b. Mild
c. Moderate
d. Severe

What would be helpful for J.G.'s physician to know regarding J.G.'s substance abuse history?

Answer 1

• Drinking in a hazardous situation
• Missing school or work*
• Having a craving for alcohol*
• Having a tolerance to alcohol
• Continuing to drink despite personal or social problems*
• Continued drinking despite health problems*
• Unsuccessfully trying to quit
• Drinking more than intended*
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit drinking*
• Increased alcohol-seeking behaviors
• Drinking that interferes with important activities*

Answer: d
The presence of six or more criteria indicates a severe level of alcohol use disorder. J.G.
demonstrates at least 7 of the 11 criteria.

• Other substances J.G. uses or has used in the past
• History of complications, including seizures, while withdrawing from substances
• Current medical problems
• Any current or past mental health treatment (e.g., for depression or anxiety) and any substance
abuse treatment