Alcohol is often used to relax, socialise, or unwind after a long day. However, when drinking becomes compulsive, difficult to control, or leads to negative consequences, it may indicate Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). This condition is not about a lack of willpower – it is a complex interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors that affects a person’s ability to regulate their drinking.
AUD exists on a spectrum – some people may struggle with binge drinking on occasion, while others may experience a persistent and compulsive need to drink despite harm to their health, relationships, or responsibilities. If drinking has started to feel less like a choice and more like a necessity, it may be time to seek support.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that alcohol use disorder requires a tailored, evidence-based approach. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
How anger develops: The activation-to-deactivation process
Not everyone with AUD drinks daily – some may engage in binge drinking (consuming large amounts in one sitting) or periods of excessive use followed by attempts to cut back. Some key signs include:
- Drinking more than intended or for longer periods than planned
- Struggling to cut down or stop despite wanting to
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, drinking, or recovering from alcohol use
- Experiencing cravings or strong urges to drink
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, home, or school due to alcohol use
- Continuing to drink despite it causing problems in relationships
- Needing to drink more over time to feel the same effects (tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (e.g., shakiness, sweating, irritability, nausea) when not drinking
It’s also important to recognise that problematic alcohol use can be linked to other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or trauma history. Many people drink as a way to cope with emotional distress, which can create a cycle that is difficult to break without support.
Treatment and Recovery
Recovery is not about “hitting rock bottom” – early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes. Effective treatments for AUD focus on both reducing alcohol use and addressing underlying emotional or psychological factors. These may include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps identify triggers, unhelpful thought patterns, and coping strategies to manage cravings and reduce reliance on alcohol.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): A collaborative approach that strengthens personal motivation and commitment to change without judgment.
- Harm Reduction Strategies: For those who aren’t ready to stop completely, harm reduction focuses on safer drinking habits and reducing negative consequences.
- Relapse Prevention Planning: Learning strategies to navigate social pressures, cravings, and high-risk situations to maintain progress.
- Mindfulness and Stress Management: Helps manage underlying emotional distress that may contribute to alcohol use.
- Medical and Peer Support: While psychological support is critical, some people also benefit from medication-assisted treatment (prescribed by a doctor), peer support groups, or rehabilitation services.
How we can support you
At VPC, we offer compassionate, evidence-based support for those struggling with alcohol use. Our psychologists work with clients to:
- Understand the underlying reasons for alcohol use
- Develop healthier coping strategies for stress, anxiety, or trauma
- Reduce alcohol-related harm or work toward sobriety, depending on individual goals
- Create a long-term plan for relapse prevention and wellbeing
If alcohol use is affecting your life, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Support is available.
We have a number of clinicians who work with eating disorders. To learn more, please refer to our Psychologists page for clinician details.
If you are currently experiencing eating difficulties or body image concerns and would like to begin your journey to recovery, get in touch with us. We are here to help.