Alcohol dependent consumption is not only a social evil, it depletes person physically, emotionally and psychologically too. Criteria of alcohol dependence – - Narrowing of the drinking repertoire - Priority of drinking over other activities - Tolerance of effects of alcohol - Repeated withdrawal symptoms - Relief of withdrawal symptoms by further drinking - Subjective compulsion to drink - Reinstatement of drinking behaviour after abstinence Because of their drinking habits, socially people may face many problems like absenteeism from work, unemployment, marital tensions, child abuse, financial difficulties and problems with law, including violence and traffic offences. Physically, alcohol consumption can have an effect on virtually any part of body. Psychologically, person may suffer from depression and is usually reactive to social problem which heavy drinking creates. May manifest withdrawal symptoms as a subjective sensation of tension on waking in morning which may be accompanied by a tremor which makes it difficult to shave or hold a cup of tea. Another alcoholic drink relieves the symptoms, thus establishing a pattern of morning drinking. Severe confusional state may occur in severe alcoholics characterised by impaired consciousness, visual hallucinations, memory disturbance and seizures. Straightforward advice about harmful effects of alcohol and safe levels of consumption is often all that is needed. In more serious cases, patient may have to be advised to alter leisure activities. Supportive psychotherapy is often crucial in helping the patient effect the necessary changes in his lifestyle. Interpretive psychotherapy, either individual or group, can help patients who have recurrent relapses. Treatment of this type is available at specialised centres.