What Is Alcohol and Why Is It Addictive?
Have you ever wondered, “What is alcohol exactly?” It’s such a common substance that it’s sold at every gas station, liquor store, grocery store, bars and many restaurants – so what is it, anyway? You may hear stories about how people become addicted to alcohol, but may not completely understand why it happens. People drink alcohol for a variety of different reasons, but there are those who lose control when they drink, and there’s a reason why.
What is Alcohol?
Alcohol has been around for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt and other countries. Many naturally grown foods can be turned into alcohol when yeast ferments the natural sugars in fruits, plants and vegetables. Some types of alcoholic beverages contain more alcohol than others, depending on what they’re made from. Beer is created from different types of grains, wine is made from grapes, and vodka can be made from the sugars that come from potatoes, beets as well as other plants. When broken down into alcohol, these substances act as a depressant, which is why many people drink as a way to relax or loosen up. Alcohol depresses the central nervous system when a person drinks. Many people get a feeling of euphoria when this happens because of the hormones that the brain releases. A person may become more talkative and outgoing when they drink, but others may become more quiet and secluded. Most people drink to relax after a long day at work or loosen up at a party, but some people develop a problem with alcohol.
How does Alcoholism Occur?
Those suffering from alcoholism may have other problems that go beyond alcohol itself. As the brain develops from a young age, it makes connections, which helps form a person’s life and sense of self. The most common reason for alcoholism is that a person doesn’t know how to deal with different emotions like stress, fear, anger or sadness, so they begin to turn to alcohol. The brain begins to see this form of self-medication as what someone who is struggling with alcohol addiction wants to do when dealing with tough emotions. Eventually, they’ll feel a great obsession and craving to turn to alcohol whenever they feel these emotions. This need eventually turns into a dependency that they can’t control.
Overcoming an Alcohol Addiction
Stepping Stone Center for Recovery is here to help teach you how to live a better life free of active alcoholism. We’re a fully accredited facility that can assist you with the detoxification process and continue to treat your alcoholism through therapy, dual diagnosis treatment, a connection to spirituality, and more. We’re passionate about helping people learn how to live a better life through different types of treatments so you and your family can begin the healing process. By the time you leave, you’ll have an intimate understanding of the question “what is alcohol?” as well as all the tools you need to maintain your sobriety. Call us today at 866-957-4960 to take your life back.
