Alcoholism Test - (AUDIT)

How can you be sure your loved one has an alcohol use disorder? Do you find yourself questioning their drinking, wondering why they have to have so much each time? Are you frequently worrying about their physical well-being?

You are not alone, many Californians find themselves with an alcohol use disorder. In 2021, 12% of residents ages 18 and older met the criteria for an alcohol use disorder.

Alta Mira understands the concerns associated with alcohol use and how they can disrupt families. Is there a way to be sure your loved one has an alcohol use disorder? In this article, we discuss the alcoholism test and how it is utilized.

The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is a screening instrument developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to assess patterns of alcohol consumption and identify potential alcohol use disorders. Designed as a concise and effective tool, the AUDIT is widely utilized by healthcare and behavioral health professionals, as well as by individuals for self-assessment. Comprising 10 multiple-choice questions, the AUDIT evaluates various aspects of alcohol use, including frequency, quantity, and associated consequences.

Originally developed in 1989, the AUDIT has been translated into over 40 languages, facilitating its global application in diverse cultural and clinical contexts. When completing the questionnaire, respondents are required to adhere to standardized definitions of an alcoholic beverage: one standard drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (e.g., whiskey, tequila, vodka). This ensures consistency and accuracy in the interpretation of results.

The AUDIT screening was developed as a tool to facilitate the early identification of alcohol use disorders and to support timely intervention. Alcohol use disorders typically evolve gradually, and the AUDIT assessment is structured to detect patterns of alcohol consumption that may predispose individuals to such disorders. These patterns include:

• Hazardous Drinking: This refers to a drinking pattern that poses a risk of adverse consequences, both to the individual and to others. While hazardous drinking may not necessarily indicate the presence of an alcohol use disorder, the AUDIT screening aids in identifying behaviors that warrant concern and preventive measures.
• Harmful Drinking: This stage occurs when alcohol consumption begins to have detrimental effects on an individual’s physical and mental health. Harmful drinking often signals the progression toward an alcohol use disorder, as the negative consequences of alcohol use, including social and interpersonal impacts, become increasingly apparent.
• Alcohol Dependence: Alcohol dependence is characterized by a constellation of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological symptoms that emerge from persistent alcohol use. Central to this condition is a strong compulsion to drink despite significant negative consequences. Other hallmark features include increased tolerance to alcohol and the presence of withdrawal symptoms during periods of abstinence.

This structured approach allows the AUDIT to serve as a critical tool in identifying and addressing varying levels of alcohol-related risks and disorders.

The AUDIT comprises 10 questions designed to elicit honest self-reported information regarding the individual’s alcohol consumption over the preceding year. Each response is assigned a specific numeric value, which is summed to produce an overall score. A total score exceeding 8 indicates a pattern of hazardous or harmful drinking, warranting further evaluation or intervention.

The questionnaire is as follows for individuals. A clinical interview version is also available:

The AUDIT screening tool is designed to be accessible and user-friendly, offering individuals an opportunity for self-assessment prior to seeking professional care. Additionally, healthcare providers can administer the AUDIT when concerns regarding alcohol consumption arise, facilitating early detection and intervention for potential alcohol use disorders.

The AUDIT serves as an initial step in addressing alcohol use concerns. Scores are categorized to guide appropriate interventions:

• Scores of 8 to 15: These indicate hazardous drinking, warranting a reduction in alcohol consumption to mitigate associated risks.
• Scores of 16 to 19: These suggest harmful drinking patterns, necessitating closer monitoring and the implementation of counseling interventions.
• Scores of 20 and above: These are indicative of alcohol dependence and require further diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning. This may include referral to specialized programs designed to address alcohol use disorders comprehensively.

Individuals experiencing alcohol dependence begin treatment with a medically supervised detoxification program. Detoxification involves managing withdrawal symptoms in a controlled and safe environment as the body adjusts to the absence of alcohol. This step is critical, as severe withdrawal symptoms, such as those associated with delirium tremens (DTs), may occur. DTs are characterized by seizures, hallucinations, and delusions, and, if untreated, can be life-threatening. The structured environment of a detox program ensures appropriate medical intervention, reducing the risk of complications and facilitating a safer transition into subsequent phases of treatment.

After completing detoxification, individuals typically engage in therapeutic interventions and skill-building programs aimed at fostering long-term recovery. Talk therapies, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), are commonly employed to help individuals identify and modify maladaptive behavior patterns associated with alcohol use. Structured goal-setting is an integral component of these programs, providing a framework for measurable progress and contributing to improved outcomes and sustained recovery. Ongoing care ensures continued support in remaining abstinent from alcohol, which will include continued therapy, medical monitoring, and support group attendance.

Whether you have taken the AUDIT screening or not, questioning your drinking patterns may be an indicator of a possible alcohol use disorder. This is nothing to feel ashamed of and help is available to leave alcohol behind. Treatment for alcoholism will open the door to new habits and healthy coping skills, allowing you the freedom to move forward in your life. Don’t wait until alcohol takes away your mental, physical, and social well-being, reach out today for a brighter future.

If you or someone you love is living with an alcohol use disorder, Alta Mira is here with options. Our program includes a medical detox in a safe and serene environment, ensuring you are well cared for. From there, our team combines therapy and holistic approaches to encompass a whole-person treatment program. You will learn the root causes behind your alcohol use and develop new skills for your future in recovery. Call us today at 866-922-1350 to learn more about our program offerings.

Alta Mira: Science-backed treatment, world-class care.