Abstract

Background: Continuous and excessive use of alcohol is associated with physical and psychological changes in the body which encompass the alcohol dependence syndrome. It not only affects the patients, but also influences their families, especially the spouses of patients. This study was done to evaluate the impact of alcohol dependency on the spouses of patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 patients diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome who presented to the OPD of Department of Psychiatry were included in the study along with the spouses. The degree of alcohol dependency was assessed using severity of alcohol dependence questionnaire (SADQ). The impact of alcohol dependence on the spouses was assessed using General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Results: Longer duration of marital life, partners who are professionals and spouses who are not happy with their marital lives have observed to be having significantly >15 GHQ scores and higher prevalence of adjustment disorders. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need of counselling to not only patients with alcohol dependence but also to their respective spouses.

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