Ingrained in many traditions and cultures around the world, alcohol is prevalent in many individuals’ routines. Whether it’s a glass of wine with dinner, a celebratory toast, or a night out with friends, alcohol is often associated with relaxation, enjoyment, and socializing.
Alcohol, in its chemical form, is known as ethanol. It is the primary ingredient found in alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits. Ethanol is a psychoactive substance, acting a depressant, meaning it can alter one’s mood, perception, and behavior while slowing down the functioning of the brain and central nervous system. Like other drugs, alcohol affects the way the body works. It can be toxic and addictive.
If you or are a loved one are struggling with your mental health or substance use, it may be time to speak to a San Diego psychiatrist. Speaking to a provider at Sacred Psychiatric in San Diego is a great place to start.
Impact of Alcohol on the Brain
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), roughly 2.6 million deaths were attributable to alcohol consumption in 2019. Alcohol use disorders effected 400 million people or 7% of the world’s population aged 15 and older. These numbers validate the prevalence of alcohol use.
Alcohol effects the brain by enhancing the neurotransmitter, GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Now GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces the activity of neurons. Alcohol enhances the effects of GABA, leading to increased inhibition of neural activity. This results in the calming and sedative effects commonly associated with alcohol consumption.
Alcohol also inhibits the activity of glutamate, another neurotransmitter that typically excites neurons and stimulates brain activity. By reducing glutamate activity, alcohol further dampens neural communication, contributing to the slowing of cognitive functions, impaired judgment, and reduced coordination.
Mental Health Effects
Alcohol consumption can result in a wide range of effects, depending on the amount consumed and individual tolerance. In the immediate consumption of alcohol, the depressant effects of alcohol can produce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, as the brain’s activity slows down, anxiety may temporarily diminish. This is one reason why people often consume alcohol in social situations, to unwind.
With larger consumption, more sedation is notable, leading quicker sleep latency. However, alcohol-induced sleep is typically of lower quality, with disruptions in REM sleep, leading to an increased risk of insomnia.
Chronic alcohol use is strongly linked to depression and anxiety as it affects the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Over time, alcohol can deplete serotonin levels, leading to increased feelings of depression. Alcohol can amplify feelings of hopelessness and despair, impair judgment, and increase impulsivity, all of which can contribute to suicidal thoughts and actions.
Furthermore, extensive alcohol use can lead to cognitive decline, affecting memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. In severe cases, it can lead to alcohol-related dementia, where the person experiences significant and permanent cognitive impairment.
When to Seek Help
- If you find it challenging to control how much or how often you drink, despite intentions to cut back.
- If you find that you need to drink more to achieve the same effects.
- If you have strong cravings or urges to drink, especially in situations where you would usually abstain.
- If you rely on alcohol to manage stress, anxiety, depression, or other issues.
- If you start drinking alone or in secret to avoid judgment or because it’s the only way to manage your emotions.
- If alcohol use is interfering with your ability to perform at work or school.
- If drinking strains your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
- If your drinking has led to legal problems.
- If you feel that alcohol is controlling your life
Seeking mental health services in San Diego is the first step towards better health and well-being. Connect with Sacred Psychiatric in San Diego. Our dedicated experts strive to empower those with alcohol addiction, enabling them to lead enriching, self-sufficient lives with comprehensive care.