management of problem drinking
Last reviewed 01/2018
A third of problem drinkers return to normal drinking without a doctor's intervention.
A brief intervention model has been shown to be effective in reducing alcohol intake by 20% in problem drinkers. The components of this approach include:
- assessing alcohol intake
- explanation of the effects of alcohol
- advice on reducing intake
- follow-up consultations
Groups therapy, alcoholics anonymous and longterm counselling may be helpful but have never been subject to trials.
For some problem drinkers it may be best to advise abstinence. In patients where alcohol is not causing personal or social problems then aiming for controlled intake may be acceptable.