Specialized addiction psychiatry care from AIIMS-trained addiction specialist
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by loss of control over alcohol use, continued drinking despite negative consequences, and development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. It's a treatable condition affecting brain chemistry and requiring comprehensive psychiatric care.
AUD significantly impacts physical health, mental health, relationships, and social functioning. With appropriate specialized treatment including detoxification, medications, behavioral therapy, and relapse prevention, recovery is possible. Dr. Sidharth Sood's expertise in addiction psychiatry ensures comprehensive, evidence-based treatment.
Alcohol use disorder manifests through behavioral, psychological, and physical symptoms:
Unable to limit drinking or control how much is consumed
Strong urge or compulsion to drink
Needing more alcohol to achieve desired effect
Anxiety, tremors, sweating, restlessness when not drinking
Drinking despite knowing it causes problems
Work, family, or personal obligations neglected due to drinking
Alcohol use disorder develops from a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors:
Genetic predisposition, dopamine dysregulation in reward pathways, neurobiological changes from chronic alcohol use, and comorbid psychiatric conditions.
Self-medication for anxiety or depression, poor impulse control, trauma history, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Peer pressure, family history of addiction, early age of first use, social stress, and cultural attitudes toward alcohol.
Family history of AUD, male gender, early drinking onset, depression/anxiety, and social isolation.
AUD diagnosis involves comprehensive assessment:
Assessment of alcohol use patterns, quantity/frequency, withdrawal symptoms, and impact on health and functioning.
Standardized assessment tools for severity of alcohol use and withdrawal risk.
Assessment for medical complications and comorbid psychiatric conditions (depression, anxiety).
Liver function tests, blood work to assess health status and rule out medical complications.
Comprehensive AUD treatment includes:
Safe, supervised withdrawal with medications (benzodiazepines, thiamine) to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent medical complications.
Naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram to reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and support sustained abstinence.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies.
Treatment of underlying psychiatric conditions, family counseling, and support group participation.
Dr. Sidharth Sood provides specialized addiction psychiatry care through:
Detailed evaluation of alcohol use, withdrawal risk, medical complications, psychiatric comorbidities, and relapse risk.
Medical supervision of withdrawal with appropriate medications to prevent complications and ensure patient safety.
Evidence-based medications to reduce cravings and support sustained recovery from alcohol dependence.
Ongoing psychiatric care, psychotherapy, family involvement, and relapse prevention strategies for lasting recovery.
Dr. Sood understands addiction as a treatable medical condition. Treatment focuses on safe recovery, addressing underlying psychological factors, and building a sustainable recovery foundation.
Seek addiction treatment if you experience:
Loss of control over alcohol consumption
Continued drinking despite negative consequences
Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking (tremors, anxiety, sweating)
Alcohol affecting work, relationships, or responsibilities
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit
Family members concerned about your drinking
Alcohol addiction is treatable. With specialized treatment, most people achieve recovery and significant improvement in quality of life. The sooner you seek help, the better the outcomes.
Dr. Sidharth Sood specializes in evidence-based alcohol addiction treatment and recovery support.