If you or a loved one is struggling with drinking, reach out for help. Mountainside’s team of experts can help you obtain the healthy, alcohol-free life you deserve.
Alcohol, a psychoactive and potentially addictive substance, is a routine part of many social landscapes. Its widespread acceptance and visibility can obscure its misuse’s health and social ramifications. Alcoholic beverages, classified as intoxicants, interact with various structures and processes within the central nervous system, altering cognitive and physical functions.
Alcohol is a beverage that contains a significant amount of ethanol, a depressant. It is the most commonly abused substance in the United States. Alcohol can often be found at most celebratory events, from parties to work outings. Some common forms of alcohol are beer, wine, vodka, and other liquors.
Alcohol can be both physically and psychologically addictive. When an individual consumes alcohol, it is absorbed into their bloodstream from the stomach and small intestine and circulates throughout the body. On a physical level, drinking releases endorphins and dopamine, producing euphoric sensations that make the user crave the substance more. Many people use this substance as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, anxiety, pain, or other unwanted feelings. Additionally, habitual drinking can cause liver damage, increased risk for cancer, and other psychological issues.
When consumed, alcohol enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, influencing its communication pathways. This disruption can manifest in altered moods, impaired coordination, and diminished decision-making abilities. Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can rewire neural circuits, leading to tolerance, cravings, and a compulsive need to consume alcohol despite adverse consequences – hallmarks of addiction.
While moderate alcohol consumption may pose minimal risks for some individuals, any level of alcohol use carries potential dangers. The risks escalate substantially with increased frequency, volume, and binge drinking patterns. Alcohol’s toxic effects can damage vital organs, including the liver, pancreas, and heart, heightening the risk of various diseases and conditions.
Also, alcohol is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, increasing the likelihood of developing several types of cancer, such as breast, liver, and colorectal cancer. Its immunosuppressive properties also heighten vulnerability to infectious diseases like tuberculosis and HIV.
The molecular formula of alcohol is C2H6O while it’s also called 1-hydroxyethane
The adverse effects of alcohol extend beyond physical health, impacting mental wellbeing and social dynamics. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments, while simultaneously straining personal and professional relationships.
Alcohol’s impact on decision-making and coordination can lead to dangerous situations, such as drunk driving, violence, and risky sexual behavior, putting both the individual and others at risk. Additionally, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, anxiety, and seizures, can be severe and potentially life-threatening without proper medical supervision.
Excessive drinking, also known as binge drinking, is the consumption of enough alcohol to raise your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels to 0.08. Typically, that means four drinks for women, and five for men ─ in a period of two hours.
Oftentimes, binge drinking occurs when a person consumes alcohol uncontrollably and “blacks out,” or experiences memory loss, during or after drinking. Even if binge drinking doesn’t occur on a regular basis, consuming many alcoholic beverages in a short period of time can have negative health consequences down the road. Studies have shown younger people who binge drink are three times more likely to develop alcoholism, otherwise known as alcohol use disorder, as adults.
About 95,000 Americans die from the alcohol-related incidents each year. Binge drinking can promote risk-taking and harmful behaviors, leaving individuals more vulnerable to sexual assault, injuries, and car accidents. Drinking can also lead to alcohol poisoning, pancreatitis, and strokes, and is especially life-threatening when mixed with prescription painkillers, cocaine, ecstasy, and sedatives.
Repeated alcohol misuse can lead to addiction and health problems, including:
Recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Common indicators include:
It’s important to note that the severity and manifestation of these signs can vary from person to person, making it challenging to identify alcohol addiction in some cases.
Alcohol poisoning occurs when an individual consumes a toxic amount of alcohol, often over a very short period of time. Because that amount depends on age, gender, size, weight, health, how quickly an individual has been drinking, how much they have eaten, and whether they have consumed other substances, it is impossible to know how much alcohol will lead to an overdose. Acute alcohol poisoning can be deadly, which is why individuals who overdose require immediate medical attention. Signs of an overdose include:
Overcoming alcohol addiction is a challenging journey that requires a multifaceted approach and unwavering commitment. The first step is acknowledging the problem and seeking professional help. Treatment options may include the following.
Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs provide a structured environment for individuals to address their addiction. These programs offer medical supervision, counseling, and support to manage withdrawal symptoms and develop coping strategies for long-term recovery.
Organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other peer-led support groups offer a sense of community, accountability, and shared experiences. These groups can be invaluable in maintaining sobriety and navigating the challenges of recovery.
Individual or group therapy sessions, led by licensed professionals, can help address underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to alcohol addiction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing are practical therapeutic approaches.
In some cases, prescription medications may be used to alleviate cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, or address co-occurring mental health conditions that could contribute to alcohol addiction.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques, can support recovery and promote overall health.
Recovery from alcohol addiction is a lifelong journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a robust support system. It’s essential to remember that relapse is common and does not signify failure but rather an opportunity to reassess and recommit to the recovery process.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, seek professional help from healthcare providers, addiction specialists, or reputable organizations. Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment approach can pave the way towards a fulfilling and sober life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with drinking, reach out for help. Mountainside’s team of experts can help you obtain the healthy, alcohol-free life you deserve.