What is alcohol use disorder (AUD)?About 18 million adult Americans have an alcohol use disorder (AUD). This means that their drinking causes distress and harm. AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms. Severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence.AUD is a disease that causes:Craving - a strong need to drinkLoss of control - not being able to stop drinking once you've startedNegative emotional state - feeling anxious and irritable when you are not drinking Do you need help with curbing your alcohol use? Join us, Thursday evenings from 7-8 p.m. at the Osborne Newman Center for support managing your use of alcohol.Recovery is built on the simple foundation of one person sharing with another. If your drinking is out of control, A.A. can help.