Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What diagnosis is most appropriate for a client with vivid frightening dreams and a history of alcohol abuse?

1. Korsakoff's syndrome

2. Insomnia

3. Alcohol-induced sleep disorder

4. Narcolepsy

The correct answer is: Alcohol-induced sleep disorder

The most appropriate diagnosis for a client exhibiting vivid frightening dreams alongside a history of alcohol abuse is alcohol-induced sleep disorder. This condition can arise due to the disruption in normal sleep architecture resulting from alcohol consumption and withdrawal. Alcohol is known to affect the brain's neurotransmitters, particularly during the withdrawal phase, which can lead to disturbances in sleep patterns, including vivid dreams, nightmares, and overall disruptions in sleep continuity. Individuals with a history of alcohol abuse may experience these symptoms as their bodies adjust to the absence of alcohol, especially if they have recently stopped drinking or are reducing their intake. The symptoms are characteristic of an alcohol-induced condition because they are directly linked to the individual's use of alcohol, distinguishing it from other potential sleep disorders. In contrast, Korsakoff's syndrome is primarily characterized by memory problems and is linked to thiamine deficiency due to chronic alcohol abuse, not specifically to sleep disturbances. Insomnia could include a broader range of sleep difficulties but does not specifically tie into the history of alcohol use and wouldn't necessarily account for the vivid dreams described. Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks, which does not relate to the symptoms presented by the client.