SADQ

Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire

Download the SADQ at the bottom of the page

The Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) asks the patient 20 questions to determine their tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and physical dependence on alcohol. The questionnaire is scored out of 60, with the following interpretations:

• 0 – 7 Non-dependent
• 8 – 15 Mild dependence
• 16-30 Moderate dependence
• 31-60 Severe dependence

Recommended treatment for dependence:

8 – 15 Mild Dependence — Counselling on “safe” limits of alcohol intake, monitoring of alcohol intake and alcohol related comorbidities. Regular health checks with GP. Brief interventions and counselling targeted at reducing intake.

16-30 Moderate dependence — A medicated detox programme is usually indicated for someone with a score over 16. Addiction In-home Recovery (AIR) can provide a safe in-home withdrawal plan and 12- months aftercare support.

31-60 Severe dependence — A form of medicated detox will be clinically indicated with likely ongoing rehabilitation services as an in or outpatient. This will be discussed in aftercare planning should they choose our AIR detox programme. They may require in-patient facilities, this will be discussed in their pre-assessment with our medical team.