Alcohol Dependence is the diagnosis used in the DSM-IV to describe the most severe addiction to Alcohol. It is defined by having at least three of the following symptoms in a one-year period:
1. Tolerance: The need to use increasing amounts of Alcohol in order to get the same level of intoxication, or using the regular amount of Marijuana doesn’t cause as strong an effect.
2. Withdrawal: A specific set of symptoms that individuals experience when they stop taking Alcohol. Symptoms may include dilated pupils, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, increased temperature, shakiness, nausea and vomiting, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, coma and death.
3. Drinking larger amounts of Alcohol and for longer periods than intended.
4. Persistent desire or repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit drinking Alcohol.
5. Spending excessive amounts of time trying to get Alcohol, being drunk or recovering from Alcohol use.
6. Important social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced because of Alcohol use.
7. The individual continues to drink Alcohol despite knowledge of negative consequences (i.e. physical illness, relationship problems, job difficulty etc.)