Abstract
The Internet, as the fastest growing medium, is becoming more affordable for the general population, allowing cheap, fast and efficient communication in several modalities such as text, sound and image. Around two thirds of Internet users in developed countries use the Internet to find information about health problems and their treatment, and therefore the Internet has great potential for preventive and therapeutic effects.
The review article focuses on the possibility of using the Internet in the treatment and prevention of some alcohol use disorders. Web sites focusing on this issue offer four basic types of services (a) information services, (b) screening and brief interventions, (c) psychotherapy or counseling and (d) self-help group meetings.
The advantages of Internet services are mainly the lower cost of treatment, place and time flexibility, possibility to remain anonymous and to be in contact with hidden populations such as female or young drinkers.