The Chemistry of Alcohol Addiction

The Chemistry of Alcohol Addiction Alcohol modifies the reward center of the brain. Drinking becomes associated with positive experiences, which encourages San Jose residents to drink more heavily in social situations and associate good times with alcohol consumption. More and more they seek to repeat these experiences, depending on alcohol to provide enjoyment. Alcoholics diminish problems such as hangovers, memory loss and legal problems, and they begin to feel that they can have a good time only when drinking.

This mental state can induce relapse during the recovery process, especially when San Jose alcoholics are exposed to cues that encourage drinking. These cues can be anything that reminds the recovering alcoholic of past experiences with drinking. Some San Jose alcoholics may be in the habit of drinking at a favorite bar, at family gatherings, while watching sports or smoking a cigarette. It is crucial to be aware of environmental factors that can trigger the urge to drink, as it can affect one’s recovery later on.

Physiological Causes of Alcoholism in Ssan Jose

The physiological causes of alcoholism are more complex. What many addiction experts consider the most critical factor is how addiction chemically changes the brain. Messages are sent from one part of the brain to another via chemicals called neurotransmitters. Two neurotransmitters in particular, dopamine and serotonin, are affected by alcohol intake. These neurotransmitters affect feelings of pleasure, pain, mood, and reaction to stress. For San Jose residents who are not alcoholics, dopamine is released in response to situations or stimuli that create pleasure or excitement. But, alcoholics depend on the dopamine released when drinking alcohol. With chronic heavy drinking the brain becomes flooded with dopamine, and begins to produce less of it on its own. As a result, San Jose alcoholics find it difficult to experience pleasure without drinking. Similarly, depletion of serotonin in the brain can result in depression, a common side effect of alcoholism.

As alcoholism advances, the brain begins a process known as neuroadaptation. In neuroadaptation the brain actually alters its chemistry in response to the continuous presence of alcohol. At this point, if an alcoholic stops drinking, her brain will attempt to return to its normal state. This is when symptoms of withdrawal emerge. Since resuming drinking will reduce symptoms of withdrawal, it is very tempting for recovering alcoholics to begin drinking again. Neuroadaptations may persist for some time after San Jose residents quit drinking, and they may be responsible for urges to drink and cravings during recovery.

San Jose Alcoholism Help

A professional treatment center with a holistic approach to recovery offers the best chance for recovery from alcoholism. It is important to recognize the need to address both the psychological/behavioral aspect of alcoholism and the chemical imbalances present in the brain. Some San Jose patients benefit from anti-depressant therapy in addition to addiction counseling that addresses behavioral aspects. Be sure you find the best treatment option for you.

Our staff of trained professionals is standing by to answer any questions you may have. Our number is toll free, and we are available 24 hours a day. San Jose residents need only call to be connected with compassionate help. Call us now.