Understanding Alcohol Addiction: Causes and Psychological Effects

Alcohol is very addictive. The more alcohol that is consumed, the more the body wants. The paradoxical part about alcohol consumption is that ethanol, the addictive substance in alcohol, is poisonous to the human body.

Psychological Addiction

• Alcohol is addictive because it is a psychological crutch, alleviating anxiety and stress. For many, drinking will get them through a tough day and make them feel better.

Dopamine

• When alcohol enters the body, there is an instant release of dopamine, which is linked to the brain's reward system, making the user feel good. It also causes the brain to make more endorphins (the brain's natural painkiller), which leads to the continuous craving of alcohol.

The Brain

• Drinking alcohol affects messages sent back and forth between the brain and the nerve cells; this interference in cognitive processes is actually believed to be a cause of dependence, and a key reason that a tolerance for alcohol is created.

Genetics

• Another component to alcohol addiction is genetics. According to Web MD, people with a family history of addiction are at a much greater risk of becoming an alcoholic.

Personality

• Predisposition and personality are also key in alcohol addiction. Key factors, including upbringing and environment, play a significant role.