Alcohol Abuse and Dependence

Reference Alcohol use problems Opens New Window may be diagnosed during a routine doctor visit or when you see your doctor for another problem. Many people don't go to a doctor for alcohol problems but for problems that are caused by long-term alcohol use.

Your doctor will ask about your Reference medical history and do a Reference physical exam. He or she also may ask questions or do tests to look for health problems linked to alcohol problems, such as Reference cirrhosis Opens New Window.

To learn which type of questions your doctor may ask, use this short quiz:

Reference Interactive Tool: Do You Have a Drinking Problem? Reference

People who drink also may have mental health problems. These may include depression, anxiety disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you have a drinking problem and a mental health problem, it's called a Reference dual diagnosis. A dual diagnosis can make treatment for an alcohol problem harder.

If your doctor thinks you have a mental health problem, he or she may do a Reference mental health assessment.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.