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Alcohol Addiction. Everything you need to know about alcoholism.

Dr John Crimmins

Dr John Crimmins

Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist.

Alcohol addiction. This article will address everything you need to know about alcoholism,

Alcoholism is a chronic condition marked by continuous alcohol consumption despite adverse effects. It is defined by physical and psychological dependence on alcohol and can have a variety of profound consequences on a person’s physical and mental health, along with their social and economic well-being.

Symptoms of alcoholism include the inability to manage the amount of alcohol used, an increasing tolerance to alcohol, and withdrawal symptoms such as tremors and tremors when alcohol consumption is discontinued.

The cycle of alcohol addiction

Typically, the cycle of alcoholism begins with the initial decision to drink. This could be due to enjoying the taste and effects of alcohol but also it can be due to peer pressure, stress, or the desire to fit in. As a person continues to use alcohol, they can begin to notice its pleasant effects, such as relaxation and lowered inhibitions. This may lead the person to drink excessively or  in greater quantities in order to continue feeling these benefits.

A person may build a tolerance to alcohol over time, requiring them to drink more to attain the same results. As alcoholism progresses, the person may begin to encounter negative consequences as a result of their drinking, such as issues at work or school, financial difficulties, and relationship issues. Due to his or her physical and emotional need on alcohol, the person may continue drinking despite these adverse repercussions.

When the body becomes conditioned to the presence of alcohol and experiences withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is absent, physical dependency develops. Without effective management, these symptoms, which may include tremors, seizures, and acute agitation, can be deadly. Psychological dependence on alcohol, commonly referred to as alcoholism, develops when a person has a strong emotional and psychological attachment to alcohol and feels the need to drink to cope with life’s difficulties.

Breaking the cycle of alcoholism is very often complex and requires professional assistance and support. Alcohol addiction treatment methods  include psychotherapy, medication, and support groups. It is also essential that the individual make changes to their lifestyle, such as avoiding triggers that may lead to drinking and finding healthy ways to deal with stress.

How Does Addiction Develop in the Brain?

 

Addiction is a complicated brain disorder that can develop when drugs or other substances are used over and over again. When a person uses a substance, it can trigger the release of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and reward. This release of chemicals can create a feeling of pleasure and can lead to the person wanting to repeat the experience.

Over time, the brain gets used to the substance’s presence and will start to make less of its own chemicals, like dopamine. As a result, the person needs to use more of the substance in order to achieve the same pleasurable effects. This can lead to tolerance, which is a hallmark of addiction.

As the addiction progresses, the person will start to experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using the substance. These symptoms can be physical, such as tremors or nausea, or psychological, such as anxiety or depression. The presence of withdrawal symptoms can make it difficult for the person to stop using the substance, even if they want to.

Addiction is a chronic disorder that can have long-lasting effects on the brain and body. It often requires professional treatment and support to overcome

Stages of the Addiction Cycle

The stages of the addiction cycle can vary for different substances and individuals, but there are some general patterns that are commonly observed. Here are the six stages of the addiction cycle:

  1. Experimentation: This is the initial stage of the addiction cycle, where a person may try a substance out of curiosity or peer pressure. At this stage, the person may not have a strong desire to continue using the substance.
  2. Regular use: If the person continues to use the substance, they may begin to use it more regularly. They may start to experience the pleasurable effects of the substance and may begin to crave it.
  3. Risky use: As the addiction progresses, the person may start to engage in risky behavior while under the influence of the substance. This can include driving while intoxicated or engaging in risky sexual behavior.
  4. Dependence: The person may develop a physical and/or psychological dependence on the substance, which can make it difficult for them to stop using it. They may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.
  5. Addiction: At this stage, the person is fully addicted to the substance and may prioritize it above other responsibilities and activities. They may continue to use the substance despite negative consequences.
  6. Recovery: The final stage of the addiction cycle is recovery, where the person works to overcome their addiction and build a healthy, substance-free lifestyle. This may involve seeking professional treatment and support.

It’s important to note that the stages of the addiction cycle can be fluid, and a person may move back and forth between different stages. Also, not all individuals will experience all of these stages.

Alcohol's Effects on the Body

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which means it slows down the body’s functions and can impair brain function. When a person drinks alcohol, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and affects nearly every organ in the body.

Here are some ways that alcohol can affect the body:

  • Brain: Alcohol can impair brain function and can affect a person’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time. It can also alter mood and can cause feelings of relaxation and euphoria.
  • Heart: Moderate alcohol consumption may have some protective effects on the heart, but excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke.
  • Liver: The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol, and long-term heavy drinking can lead to liver damage and diseases such as alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis.
  • Pancreas: Alcohol can cause inflammation in the pancreas, which can lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
  • Immune system: Alcohol can weaken the immune system and can make a person more susceptible to illness.

It’s important to note that the effects of alcohol can vary depending on a person’s age, gender, weight, and overall health, as well as the amount and pattern of alcohol consumption.

Alcohol-Induced Blackouts

A blackout caused by alcohol is when a person can’t remember things that happened while they were drinking. Alcohol makes it hard for the brain to make new memories, which can lead to blackouts if a person drinks a lot in a short amount of time or has a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

During a blackout, a person may look like they are doing fine and may even be able to talk and do things. However, they will not be able to remember these events later. Alcohol-induced blackouts can be partial, meaning the person may be able to remember some events but not others, or they can be complete, meaning the person has no memory of the events at all.

Blackouts are a sign of alcohol abuse and can be a risk factor for other problems such as alcohol-related accidents and injuries, as well as long-term health problems. If you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol-induced blackouts, it’s important to seek help for alcohol abuse.

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Binge drinking dangers

Binge drinking is a way of drinking alcohol in which a person drinks a lot of alcohol in a short amount of time with the goal of getting drunk. Binge drinking is dangerous and can have serious short-term and long-term consequences.

Some of the dangers of binge drinking include:

  • Impaired judgment and coordination, which can lead to accidents and injuries
  • Alcohol poisoning, which can occur when the body is overwhelmed by the amount of alcohol consumed
  • Blackouts, or periods of time during which a person is unable to remember events that occurred while they were under the influence of alcohol
  • Increased risk of long-term health problems, such as liver disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers
  • Increased risk of risky behavior, such as drunk driving or engaging in unprotected sex

Binge drinking is a serious public health problem and can have serious consequences. If you or someone you know is engaging in binge drinking, it’s important to seek help to address the underlying issues and reduce the risk of harm.

 

How do genes influence alcohol use disorder?

Alcohol use disorder, which is also called alcoholism, can be caused in part by genetics.  Research has shown that there is a genetic component to alcoholism and that people who have a family history of alcoholism are more likely to develop the disorder themselves.

However, it’s important to note that genes are only one factor that can influence the development of alcoholism. Environmental and social factors, such as stress, trauma, and social pressure, can also play a role. Additionally, the interaction between genetic and environmental factors is complex, and it’s not always clear how these factors interact to increase the risk of alcoholism.

If you have a family history of alcoholism, it’s important to be aware of your risk and mindful of your alcohol consumption. Seeking help if you are struggling with excessive alcohol use can reduce your risk of developing alcoholism and can improve your overall health and well-being.

Can our genes affect alcohol treatment?

Genes can potentially affect a person’s response to alcohol treatment and recovery. Research has shown that certain genetic variations may influence a person’s risk of developing alcohol use disorder and their response to treatment.

For example, some research has suggested that people who have certain genetic variations may be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol and may be at greater risk of developing alcohol use disorder. These same genetic variations may also influence a person’s response to treatment, with some people responding better to certain medications or therapies than others.

It’s important to remember that genes aren’t the only thing that can affect how a person responds to treatment. Other things, like the severity of the addiction, the presence of other mental health problems, and the person’s support system, can also have an effect.

If you are seeking treatment for alcohol abuse or addiction, it’s important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

What are the treatment options for alcoholism?

There are several treatment options available for alcoholism, and the most appropriate treatment will depend on the individual’s needs and circumstances.

Some common treatment options for alcoholism include:

  • Counseling: This can include individual therapy, group therapy, or family therapy, and can help the person identify the underlying causes of their alcohol abuse and develop coping skills to address these issues.
  • Medication: There are several medications that can be used to help people recover from alcoholism, including disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications can help reduce cravings and improve the chances of long-term recovery.
  • Support groups: Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), can provide a sense of community and support during recovery. These groups can also help the person develop coping skills and strategies for maintaining long-term sobriety.
  • Inpatient treatment: Inpatient treatment programs involve the person staying at a treatment facility for a period of time, typically several weeks. These programs provide a structured environment and can offer a range of therapeutic interventions, such as counseling, medication, and support groups.
  • Outpatient treatment: Outpatient treatment programs allow the person to receive treatment while continuing to live at home. These programs can include individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups, and can be tailored to the person’s specific needs and schedule.

It’s important to note that recovery from alcoholism is a long-term process and may involve a combination of different treatment approaches. Working with a qualified healthcare provider can help you determine the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

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