Psychiatric Morbidity and Quality of Life among Widows with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Case Series

Background: Alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) is a major health problem globally, with a significant gender gap in consumption patterns. Widows with ADS are at high risk for developing psychiatric comorbidities and poor quality of life. This case series highlights the impact of spousal death as a major stressor leading to ADS and associated psychiatric morbidities among widows. Methods: Four widows diagnosed with ADS according to ICD-11 criteria were assessed using structured interviews, including sociodemographic data, CIWA-Ar, SADQ, MINI-PLUS, and WHO QoL-BREF scales. The cases were presented to the outpatient department at Subbaiah Institute of Medical Sciences between January and July 2024. Results: All four widows initiated or developed alcohol dependence following the death of their spouse. SADQ revealed moderate severity of dependence, while MINI-PLUS showed moderate to severe depression. WHO QoL-BREF indicated a decline in physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Poor family support and negative outlook for the future were common among these women. Conclusion: Widows with ADS are at high risk for developing psychiatric comorbidities and poor quality of life. Death of a spouse is a major stressor, and poor coping skills, negative outlook, and lack of family support are potential contributory factors. Further prospective studies are needed to evaluate the occurrence of psychiatric morbidities in widows with and without ADS, and to identify potential risk factors for ADS development.