Brief intervention for unhealthy alcohol use

Abstract

Brief intervention-brief advice and counseling that includes non-judgmental feedback about use-has efficacy for decreasing alcohol use among those with non-dependent unhealthy use. For those with non-dependent unhealthy alcohol use, the goal can be decreased use or abstinence. For those with dependence or an absolute contraindication to use, the best goal is abstinence. The goal of brief intervention can also be to continue care in the long term and link patients to specialty care if needed. When those with dependence are advised to cut down or abstain, attention must be given to the risk for withdrawal and its management.