When consuming alcohol, you likely notice some of the physical and emotional effects it has on your body. These effects leave the system relatively quickly, but the more you drink, the more likely you will develop long-term emotional effects from alcohol consumption. Alcohol, like most other drugs, can have a lasting impact on your brain, its chemical balance, and how it reacts to the world around you. Due to this, it’s vital to understand the effects of alcohol on mood and other emotional effects of alcohol. Identifying these effects will often bring to light the first signs of alcohol addiction and the possible need for a stay at an alcohol rehab center.
Alcohol detox typically follows a comprehensive addiction treatment plan that may include a cognitive-behavioral therapy program. At The Right Step, we tailor our alcohol addiction treatment programs to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. Contact us today at 17135283709 to learn more about how alcohol affects emotions and what you can do to get on the road to stopping alcohol abuse and starting to build a happier and more productive life.
Learning How Alcohol Affects Emotions
Not everyone will experience the same emotional effects of alcohol. Your family background plays a role in the emotional effects of alcohol that may arise as you drink. If your parents were or are alcoholics, there is a higher chance of the addiction being passed down to you. While there isn’t anything you can do about your genetics or what your parents may or may not have done, you can take control of your future, which is why understanding the emotional impact alcohol has on your body is crucial. Other factors that can determine the way alcohol affects you emotionally, physically, and psychologically include:
- Frequency and quantity of your alcohol consumption
- How long you’ve been drinking alcohol
- The type of alcohol you’re likely to consume
- Your gender
- Your overall health and well-being
- Whether or not you’re taking any medications or have any medical conditions
Addiction can also intensify emotional effects. Keep in mind that some people are more susceptible to developing an addiction than others. If you struggle with alcohol and emotions while abusing the substance, it’s crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible. Alcohol and mood swings are closely entwined, but mood changes are sometimes not present when someone abuses alcohol. There are many variables at play when it comes to the full extent of the emotional effects of alcohol, as well as other effects on the body and mind.
Common Emotional Effects Of Alcohol
As mentioned earlier, each person experiences different emotional effects after consuming alcohol. Sometimes the type of alcohol can play a part in the emotional consequences that arise. The variation in mood based on alcohol type can be derived from the ingredients used and how it reacts to your mental state. Alcohol reveals and intensifies underlying emotions.
Short-Term Emotional Effects of Alcohol
The immediate emotional effects of alcohol are usually the result of the drug’s depressant qualities. When you drink, you may feel more relaxed and less inhibited than usual. This can decrease anxiety and make social situations more enjoyable for some people. However, alcohol’s depressant effects can also lead to:
- Guilt
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Shame
- Aggressive behavior
Many people feel guilty about their actions while drinking alcohol. Whether it is based on how they physically feel after drinking or how they feel, guilt is one of the most common emotional effects. Shame is closely tied in with guilt. You may have done something humiliating while drinking, which causes you to feel shame about drinking.
These short-term emotional effects of alcohol are usually most pronounced when you drink excessively. You must stop and assess the situation if you feel angry or violent while drinking. Drinking alcohol should never be a reason to act out in ways you wouldn’t normally do.
Long-Term Emotional Effects of Alcohol
Prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to changes in your brain, resulting in lasting emotional effects. These changes can make it difficult for you to regulate your emotions and make it more challenging to experience pleasure. Over time, alcohol abuse can also lead to:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Personality changes
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
If you or someone you love is struggling with an alcohol problem, it’s vital to seek professional help as soon as possible. Alcohol addiction is a severe condition that requires medical treatment and professional counseling.
Learn More about the Alcohol Rehab Center at The Right Step
Suppose you or someone you love has been experiencing some emotional effects of alcohol consumption. It may signify that you need to deal with alcohol abuse behaviors and consider detox and addiction treatment. Continuing down this path without professional help will only worsen your struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction. You may begin to harm your relationships with friends and family members. You owe it to yourself and those you care about to start living a life of sobriety.
If you have further questions regarding the effects of alcohol on mood or if you are ready to take advantage of services offered by The Right Step, call our friendly staff at 17135283709.
