AMA VICDOC_Spring 2026_09.09.2026 - Flipbook - Page 21
Alcohol use disorder:
a refresher
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) Is a
widespread and chronic condition marked
by a compulsive inability to control
alcohol consumption, even when there
are severe negative consequences. It is
one of the most common substance use
disorders in Australia, with an estimated
one in 5 Australians drinking at levels
that put them at risk of harm. Alcohol use
is a leading risk factor for the burden of
disease in Australia, with an annual social
cost of more than $70 billion.
Signs and symptoms of AUD to look
out for in patients:
Drinking more or for longer than
intended
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down
or stop
Spending a lot of time drinking or
recovering from drinking
ADDICTION IS
FORMUL ATED AS A
BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL
CONDITION. WHILE THE
PSYCHOSOCIAL MODEL OF
CARE IS USEFUL FOR SOME
PEOPLE, WE SHOULD BE
USING ALL THE TOOLS AT
OUR DISPOSAL AND OFFER
Strong cravings or urges to drink
MANAGEMENT OF THE
Failing to meet work, family, or social
BIOLOGICAL ELEMENTS
obligations due to drinking
Continuing to drink despite it causing
relationship or health problems
Giving up activities you used to enjoy
in favour of drinking
Drinking in situations where it is
AS WELL."
– Dr Paul MacCartney
Victoria’s Chief Addiction Medicine
Advisor
Advisor
physically dangerous
Developing tolerance (needing more
alcohol to feel the same effect)
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
when not drinking (shaking, sweating,
nausea, anxiety)
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