Alcohol is found today in many different settings. Many of our customs and events within our culture today incorporate alcohol at some level. While drinking occasionally in moderation poses very little threat, excessive drinking has increased dramatically over the last few years with drinkers not only drinking more, but starting at younger and younger ages.

What are the affects of alcohol on the brain? Alcohol as well as other drugs such as tranquillizers acts directly on the brain and as we build up a tolerance to alcohol, the effect is reduced. The result is quite obvious as we are forced to drink more to get the same results and we are now on the road to becoming an alcoholic.

Alcohol can also cause;- 1) Dementia – The process of loss of memory, similar to Alzheimer’s dementia.

2) Psychosis – You can begin to hear voices as you lose contact with reality.

3) Dependence – At this point the brain and the body will experience withdrawal symptoms should the drinker try to quit. Both physical and mental symptoms can be present.

4) Suicide – Up to 40% of men who have attempted suicide have had an alcohol dependency related problem. Almost 70% of suicide victims have done so while drunk.

There is no doubt to the correlation between depression and alcohol. Self affliction and suicide are common behaviors among people who are alcoholics. There is also evidence linking chemical changes within the brain that can effect emotions from consuming alcohol. It is only natural that depression would arise from the problems that drinking can create on family and personal relationships, work performance, and even diminished memory and sexual performance.

Alcohol will also help us in forgetting our problems, although only temporarily. We will feel much more relaxed and more confident when it comes to socializing. It’s an ideal tool for chatting and having fun and meeting other people, but once again this effect is only temporary.

Many people find an escape in alcohol or a way to help cope with the pressures in life without realizing the truth hidden at the bottom of the bottle. The real truth about alcohol is that it will develop into an addiction if it is allowed. You will become addicted to the way it makes you feel and soon your body too will become addicted to the way alcohol or the lack of alcohol has on it.  If you have fallen victim to the dangers and negative effects of alcohol you must first recognize alcohol as the problem. By admitting it exists, you can deal with the challenge of overcoming your addiction. Resources such as stopdrinkingadvice, an online blog are helpful in their support and guidance.

Tags: health

Posted on February 4