Fighting Stigmas and Finding Solutions: Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder in Clinical Practice

This activity is supported by an educational grant from Lilly. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a prevalent and often undertreated condition that exists along a spectrum of severity, yet stigma and inconsistent assessment continue to limit optimal care. This session will review the medical model of AUD and its role in improving recognition, reducing stigma, and guiding evidence-based treatment. Participants will gain practical skills in implementing validated screening tools and assessment strategies to support accurate diagnosis in diverse clinical settings. The session will also evaluate current behavioral and pharmacologic treatments, including best practices for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) selection, initiation, and maintenance. Finally, attendees will explore patient-centered, collaborative approaches to overcoming common barriers to effective AUD management. Clinicians will leave equipped with actionable strategies to enhance outcomes for patients across the AUD severity spectrum.