What happens if alcohol use disorder is not treated?

Ongoing alcohol use can worsen low mood, anxiety, sleep disruption, memory, and work or family difficulties. It may irritate the stomach and contribute to gastritis. The liver can also accumulate fat and become inflamed. Tolerance and dependence may develop, making it harder to cut down without support. Withdrawal can include tremor, sweating, agitation, vomiting, confusion, or seizures and may require supervised care.

Arrange a Mental Health Assessment or medical appointment and be open about how much and how often you drink, previous withdrawal symptoms, and other medicines or drugs. A clinician can plan a gradual reduction or supervised withdrawal when appropriate. A Liver Function Test may help assess liver health, but a normal result does not rule out a drinking problem. Support can include counselling, medicines, and follow-up.

Get emergency help for a seizure, severe confusion, hallucinations, collapse, chest pain, vomiting blood, black stools, or yellow skin. Do not stop suddenly without medical advice if you drink heavily or have had withdrawal before; withdrawal can become severe within hours or days. Seek prompt help if drinking is causing unsafe driving, injuries, or thoughts of self-harm.

Is it safe for me to stop drinking at home? What withdrawal symptoms should prompt emergency help? Should my liver and stomach be assessed? Which support options fit my situation?