The DSM-5-TR lists 11 criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Clinicians look for at least two signs within a 12-month window. The count of signs met marks how severe the condition is.
We run a US treatment directory and are not a treatment provider. This guide sticks to the DSM diagnostic framework. Read our other article for more on recognizing alcohol use disorder.
Use these criteria to get ready for a talk with a doctor. They do not take the place of a check-up by a qualified professional.
DSM-5 Alcohol Use Disorder Criteria: Levels and Severity
There are 11 criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the DSM-5-TR. How many of these signs you have sets your severity level.
11
total criteria in the DSM-5-TR[1]
2
minimum criteria for an AUD diagnosis[1]
2–3
criteria for mild AUD[1]
4–5
criteria for moderate AUD[1]
6+
criteria for severe AUD[1]
Doctors use these counts, not you as a self-test. The system looks at symptoms, not just how much you drink. AUD counts as a medical problem. Criteria may cover hard-to-control drinking, health impacts, or shifts in day-to-day life.[1]
DSM-5 merges older terms into a single diagnosis. This covers what was once called alcohol abuse, dependence, addiction, or alcoholism.[1] Providers use this label to see the full picture.
Alcohol Use Disorder: The 11 Signs
Drinking patterns that may point to a problem are described by the 11 criteria for alcohol use disorder. Think of this list as a conversation aid to help you prepare for a talk with a doctor or therapist. This is not a test, and marking boxes does not mean you have a diagnosis. For a closer look at how these patterns show up in daily life, see our guide to behavioral signs of alcohol use disorder.
DSM-5-TR AUD Criteria: Conversation Reference
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This list sums up the symptoms the American Psychiatric Association describes.[2] Go to the APA’s DSM-5-TR page for the official manual.
What Clinicians Do to Check for Alcohol Use Disorder
A brief screening tool can show a need for more talk, but it does not give an alcohol use disorder diagnosis. A clinician's assessment digs deeper. It looks at the full picture of your health and daily life.
- Arrange a conversation. Make an appointment with a qualified health professional, such as your primary care doctor or a licensed therapist.
- Describe your use honestly. Share your drinking patterns, any concerns you have, and how alcohol affects your daily life.
- Review the criteria together. Your provider will discuss the diagnostic criteria and review your relevant health history, including medications and other concerns.
- Discuss next steps. Talk about whether further assessment or specific support would help you right now.
Note that clinicians do not all follow the same exact steps. The goal is to grasp your specific case using the DSM framework.
A lab test by itself does not make an alcohol use disorder diagnosis.[3] You can review our guide on screening questions for AUD to see the questions a clinician might ask. Also, a screening result is not a diagnosis.
Appointment Prep Check
This self-check is for information only and isn't a diagnosis. It does not assess, rule out, or diagnose alcohol use disorder. If you have concerns, you can always raise them with a clinician.
Is Heavy Drinking the Same as Alcohol Use Disorder?
Heavy drinking alone does not show a disorder. These two terms point to different issues. One tracks how much alcohol a person uses. The other points to symptoms that get in the way of life.
| Term | What it describes | How it is checked | What it does not show |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy drinking | A pattern of drinking above low-risk levels | Based on amount and frequency of use | A clinical diagnosis of AUD |
| Alcohol use disorder | A medical condition with impaired control over alcohol use | Based on specific DSM-5 symptoms | That a person is "bad" or weak-willed |
| Alcoholism | A common word for severe alcohol problems | Used in everyday talk, not clinics | A precise medical diagnosis or severity level |
Health references commonly use alcohol use disorder as the clinical term, while "alcoholism" is used colloquially.[1] The word "alcoholism" can feel stigmatizing. It often suggests a character flaw. Seeing it as a health condition is better. Person-first language is helpful. Try saying someone has alcohol use disorder. This puts the focus on the health issue.
How much a person drinks is not the same as having diagnostic symptoms. Someone may drink within low-risk limits yet still have trouble with control. Another person may drink a lot but not meet the criteria for a diagnosis. Learn more in our guide on the difference between binge drinking and AUD.
Meaning of Early and Sustained Remission
It shows if you meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder now. It does not judge your recovery. It does not forecast what comes next.
Past diagnosis
You met enough criteria for a diagnosis before.
The DSM-5-TR labels are summarized in this timeline. It does not guess at your recovery path. Even when other signs fade, craving can stick around. You can still hold a remission label despite this.
If you are reading a code or medical record, check the FAQ section for more info. Confirm coding details with a billing expert or your clinician. These terms help you discuss alcohol use disorder remission and early remission AUD status with your care team.
Talking About “Dry Drunk” With Kindness
You may hear the phrase “dry drunk” used to describe irritability or mood swings after someone stops drinking. Because it is not a clinical label, it can sometimes sound blaming rather than helpful.
Your words matter. Threats or blame often end a chat. Calm, specific notes open it up. Try these swaps to trade harsh words for caring ones.
| Instead of Saying | Try Saying |
|---|---|
| “You’re acting like a dry drunk.” | “I’ve noticed you seem really irritable lately. I’m worried about you.” |
| “You’re just being difficult on purpose.” | “It feels hard to talk to you right now. I’d like to understand what’s going on.” |
| “If you don’t stop, I’ll leave.” | “I care about you and want us to be okay. What kind of support would feel right?” |
| “You’re still an alcoholic even if you aren’t drinking.” | “Recovery is hard. I’m here to listen if you want to talk about how it’s going.” |
Do not try to diagnose the person or force a confrontation. Rather, ask them what support they would like. You may also direct them to professional help with no pressure. Our guide on getting a nonjudgmental assessment offers more tips on finding care that respects their dignity.
Getting Ready for a Check and Locating Support
The first step is a simple talk. You can talk to a doctor about alcohol concerns or look for help finding alcohol treatment. Being ready helps make this smoother. No single path fits everyone. The best care depends on your health and support system.
Before You Talk With a Professional
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A professional check goes beyond a label. ASAM guidance notes that level-of-care choices depend on a full look at your needs, strengths, and support.[4] This helps tailor the plan to you.
People with alcohol use disorder have many treatment choices. NIAAA names medication as an evidence-based option for AUD.[1] Behavioral therapies are also proven ways to treat AUD.[1] For fast help, call the SAMHSA National Helpline for free, private referrals.[5] If you are considering medication, our guide to naltrexone for alcohol use disorder explains how it works and what to expect. For another evidence-based option, our guide to acamprosate for alcohol use disorder covers how it works and its side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is alcoholism a mental illness?
The term “alcoholism” is a colloquial, non-specific word that people often use to describe the same range of conditions, including alcohol abuse and dependence.[1] It is best to use person-first language, such as “a person with alcohol use disorder,” to separate the diagnosis from who the person is.
How much drinking counts as heavy drinking?
Hitting these limits does not prove you have AUD, and missing them does not rule it out either.
What is the DSM-5 code for alcohol use disorder in early remission?
To verify that a code in your medical record is current and appropriate, check the code and its description against a current official ICD-10-CM or DSM-5-TR reference. If you find a discrepancy, confirm the correct code with your clinician or a billing specialist. This information is for reference only, not billing advice.
How does a doctor determine whether someone meets the criteria?
What should you not say to someone with alcohol use disorder?
Do not blame, threaten, or label them. Do not minimize their concerns. Share what you have seen and say you are worried. Ask if they want to talk or find support together.
