Comparison of treated and untreated alcohol dependence in a nationwide sample of Korean adults

We examined factors associated with lifetime treatment of alcohol dependence in a nationwide sample of Korean adults. Of the 6510 respondents, aged 1864, who participated in the Korean Epidemiologic Catchment Area study, we analyzed 458 who had a lifetime diagnosis of alcohol dependence. Lay interviewers administered a diagnostic assessment, based on the Korean version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, to each of the respondents. Of the 458 respondents with a lifetime diagnosis of alcohol dependence, 55 (12.0%) had been treated for psychiatric problems. Treated alcohol-dependent respondents were less likely to have a stable, dyadic relationship or a full-time job. In addition, they were more likely to have experienced alcohol withdrawal symptoms, given up important activities because of alcohol use, and continued alcohol use despite knowing they had an alcohol-associated physical or psychological problem and were less likely to have spent a great deal of time obtaining or drinking alcohol or recovering from its effects. Treated individuals were also more likely to have comorbid mood disorders, especially major depressive disorder, or comorbid anxiety disorders, especially post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Alcohol-dependent persons significantly underuse mental health services. Patterns of alcohol use and comorbid psychiatric disorders, as well as socio-demographic factors, affected treatment-seeking by alcohol-dependent individuals in Korea.