What is a symptom of psychological dependence on alcohol?

Feeling anxious without drinking is a symptom of psychological dependence on alcohol because it indicates that an individual has developed a reliance on alcohol to cope with emotions or stressors. This heightened anxiety can manifest as a craving or need for alcohol, demonstrating the psychological aspects of dependence. In these cases, the drink becomes a means of managing feelings and situations, suggesting that the individual may not only be physically reliant on it but possibly uses it as a crutch to deal with everyday life.

The other options reflect different aspects of alcohol consumption and its effects but do not specifically express psychological dependence. For example, functioning at work can suggest control and management despite alcohol use, while experiencing a hangover is typically a result of physical dependence or overconsumption rather than a psychological dependence. Strict social drinking limits might indicate responsible alcohol consumption but do not inherently imply a psychological reliance on alcohol.