A STUDY OF PSYCHIATRIC IMPACT ON SPOUSES OF ALCOHOL DEPENDENT INDIVIDUALS

Introduction: Alcohol dependence is a significant public health concern that not only affects the individual but also has profound psychological and social implications on their family, particularly their spouses. Spouses of alcohol-dependent individuals are often exposed to emotional distress, financial instability, and social stigma, leading to psychiatric morbidities. Understanding the pattern, nature, and frequency of these morbidities is essential for early intervention and better mental health outcomes. This study Objectives: aimed to assess the psychiatric morbidity among spouses of alcohol-dependent individuals at SIMS, Hapur (a tertiary care centre in Western Uttar Pradesh). A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the outpatient clinic of Saras Methods: wathi Institute of Medical Sciences (SIMS). A total of 100 spouses of alcohol-dependent individuals, aged 18-60 years, were recruited based on ICD-11 criteria for alcohol dependence. Psychiatric morbidity was assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), while alcohol dependence severity was measured using the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT).Data was analysed using Chi square test. Findings revealed a high prevalence of psychiatric Results: morbidity among spouses, with depressive and anxiety disorders being the most common. A significant correlation was observed between alcohol dependence severity and psychiatric morbidity (p < 0.05). The study highlights the substantial psychiatric burden faced by Conclusion: spouses of alcohol-dependent individuals. Targeted mental health interventions, family counseling, and social support systems are essential to mitigate these effects and improve overall well-being.