Those with alcohol dependence exhibit the same symptoms as those who abuse alcohol. The difference is that the former are also physically dependent on alcohol. Dependency symptoms may include:
-A strong craving, or urge to drink
-Being unable to stop once drinking begins
-Increased tolerance to alcohol
-Withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit
-Trying to quit but unable to follow through Those who are physically dependent on alcohol may try to quit more than once, but are unable to by themselves because the withdrawal symptoms become too much to bear.

People with alcohol abuse or dependence problems are more likely to experience major depression. The odds of alcohol dependence in someone with depression are two times that of people without depression. People with a history of substance abuse of any kind, including alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence, and severe untreated depression are at very high risk for committing suicide. Withdrawal from alcohol can be life-threatening.