[Seminar] Alcohol use disorders

Alcohol use disorders consist of conditions characterised by compulsive heavy alcohol use and loss of control over alcohol intake. Alcohol use disorders are some of the most prevalent mental disorders globally, with higher prevalence in high-income countries and lower prevalence in low-income countries. The recent COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increase in fully alcohol-attributable mortality, in part triggered by alcohol-specific interactions with stress. Despite their high prevalence, alcohol use disorders remain undertreated, even though there are scientifically established and cost-effective psychosocial, community, and pharmacological interventions available.