Booze and The Brain: Understanding the Science of Addiction

Addiction  

New, groundbreaking studies and information aid understanding how the brain responds to drug and alcohol abuse. This work may lead to effective treatment and response to alcohol addiction.

Up until recently, the general public considered addiction a product of some moral failing or lack of willpower. Such attitudes emphasized punishment instead of treatment and prevention. New, groundbreaking studies and information aid understanding how the brain responds to drug and alcohol abuse. This understanding aids effective treatment and response to alcohol addiction.

What is Addiction?

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Rather than a simple lack of self-control, addiction is a disease that controls the brain and even human behavior. What’s more, addiction favors certain people with specific genetic and environmental circumstances. Individuals definitely feel the effects of alcohol abuse and addiction, but they aren’t the only ones. Families, communities, and even larger geographic areas all experience negative consequences of addiction.

Chronic and compulsive alcohol use regardless of harmful consequences categorizes the disease of addiction. Scientists consider addiction a brain disease because of how it permanently changes the actual structure of the brain.

How Does Addiction Develop?

Rather than a simple lack of self-control, addiction is a disease that controls the brain

People usually begin drinking alcohol to feel good, to feel accepted, and even due to curiosity. Over time, with prolonged alcohol abuse, once-pleasurable activities no longer create the same reaction. Alcohol becomes the one thing that can make addicts feel good, and eventually it becomes the only thing that makes them feel normal.

As a result of this process, alcoholics make obtaining alcohol their top priority. People show telltale signs of addiction when they need a higher or more frequent dose to produce the same effect as before. Studies using brain imaging show that addicted persons develop physical changes in areas for critical thinking, decision-making, and judgment. The ability to learn, remember, and control one’s own behavior also negatively respond to these physical changes.

What Long-Term Effects Exist?

Prolonged use of Alcohol may result in the following:

• Malnutrition
• High blood pressure
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
• Sexual dysfunction
• Liver failure
• Brain damage
• Ulcers
• Physical dependence
• Addiction

Alcohol abuse includes underage drinking, binge drinking, and heavy drinking. This abuse can result in a myriad of health, social, and legal problems--especially if one tries to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. A specialist from Sessions Law Firm reports that a DUI conviction can involve serious consequences, including fines and jail time. Heavy drinking can take place in private or in social settings, so make sure to assess your intake regardless of location. 

How Do I Avoid Alcohol Abuse and Addiction?

Protect yourself against alcoholism by avoiding heavy drinking and drinking increased amounts to produce the same effect. If you feel that you are experiencing a tolerance and dependency on alcohol, contact an addiction treatment center as soon as possible.

Regular use of alcohol may still yield dangerous effects if not handled responsibly. To avoid developing a dependence and keep yourself and others safe, drink in moderation and avoid high-risk situations involving alcohol.

By Emma Sturgis

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Author Bio - Emma is a freelance writer currently living in Boston, MA. She writes most often on education and technology. When not writing, she enjoys watching old movies and indoor rock climbing.