Neuropsychological symptoms in a cross-sectional sample of abstinent alcoholics

This study examined the neuropsychological symptom reports of a cross-sectional sample of 205 abstinent alcoholics. Analysis indicated that early-abstinent alcoholics reported mild cognitive distress with a gradual course of observed recovery which eventually reached the normal range. The recovery process was essentially the same for both men and women. A nonsignificant increase in symptom reporting was found for subjects who were beyond the acute stage of detoxification, which is thought to reflect improved awareness of neuropsychological functioning. Symptoms of frustration were rated highest by alcoholics at all stages of abstinence.