According to DSM-5, what is the minimum number of criteria required within a 12-month period to diagnose Alcohol Use Disorder of moderate severity?

Explanation

## DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder **Key Point:** DSM-5 uses a dimensional approach with 11 criteria; severity is determined by the number of criteria met in a 12-month period. ### Severity Classification | Severity | Number of Criteria | Clinical Significance | |----------|-------------------|----------------------| | Mild | 2–3 criteria | Early-stage disorder, fewer consequences | | **Moderate** | **4–5 criteria** | **Significant functional impairment** | | Severe | 6–11 criteria | Substantial dysfunction, high relapse risk | ### The 11 DSM-5 Criteria 1. Alcohol taken in larger amounts/longer than intended 2. Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down 3. Great deal of time spent obtaining/using/recovering 4. Craving or strong desire to use 5. Recurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill major roles 6. Continued use despite persistent social/interpersonal problems 7. Important activities given up or reduced 8. Recurrent use in physically hazardous situations 9. Continued use despite knowledge of physical/psychological problems 10. Tolerance (need for markedly increased amounts) 11. Withdrawal (characteristic withdrawal syndrome or use to relieve withdrawal) **High-Yield:** The 4–5 criterion threshold for moderate severity is frequently tested. Memorize: 2–3 = mild, 4–5 = moderate, 6+ = severe. **Mnemonic:** **DSMFIVE** — Dimensional Severity Measured by Five-criteria thresholds (mild 2–3, moderate 4–5, severe 6+). **Clinical Pearl:** This dimensional approach (replacing the old abuse/dependence dichotomy) allows clinicians to capture the spectrum of alcohol problems and tailor treatment intensity accordingly. [cite:DSM-5 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition]