Alcohol and mental health are inextricably linked in more ways than many realize. People drink alcohol for numerous reasons. For some, it’s a social lubricant. For others, it is a coping tool. Some people simply drink to relax. Whatever the reasons, drinking too much alcohol negatively impacts a person’s mental well-being. If you or someone you love is drinking to the point where it’s causing a problem in living, then it’s time to find alcohol rehab in Laguna Beach.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we are sensitive to the fact that alcohol is prevalent in daily life, and for many people encountering it is unavoidable. Our individualized treatment programs make alcohol rehab accessible to everyone regardless of their drinking history or social obligations. Our boutique treatment center is discreet yet centrally located in gorgeous downtown Laguna Beach. To learn more or enroll, contact us at 877.279.1777.
How Does Alcohol Affect Mental Health and Mood?
Alcohol is a depressant which means that even though a person may feel better while drinking, the comedown from a buzz will lead to lower lows than they would otherwise experience. Alcohol disrupts the balance of the brain’s neurotransmitters, which slows information processing.
Because it affects the places in the brain that control inhibitions, the initial effect of alcohol can feel freeing and relaxing, and a person may feel more confident than usual. However, these effects quickly wear off to be replaced with heightened negative feelings. This often leads people to drink more and more as their tolerance builds, and they continue to seek the initial positive emotions associated with a drink.
Over time, significant alcohol use reduces the number of vital neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing a person’s capacity to discern and process emotions. Regular and excessive use of alcohol can directly diminish a person’s mental health and well-being by destabilizing their feelings and ability to make rational judgments. This contributes to a cycle of dependence and the development of substance use disorders.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse?
The effects of long-term alcohol abuse extend far beyond emotional instability and diminished neurotransmitters. Long-term alcohol abuse takes a toll on the entire body. Long-term primarily refers to several years, but it’s important to remember that abusing alcohol for even a few weeks or months can have intense negative consequences.
It’s important to remember that alcohol, in excess, is a toxic substance. In addition, longer-term alcohol abuse can cause mental disorders such as depression and physical illnesses.
Here are some vital damaging effects of long-term alcohol abuse:
- Depression and anxiety
- Psychosis
- Suicidal ideation
- Cancer of the mouth, throat, bowels, liver, pancreas, and breast
- Heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Stroke
- Liver disease
- Hepatitis
- Compromised immune system
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States, and alcohol addiction is equally dangerous as opioids or other types of addiction. Unfortunately, due to the prevalence of alcohol in every facet of society, it’s also one of the most challenging drugs to avoid.
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol dependence, don’t wait to get help. Alcoholism is a chronic disease that causes significant damage when left untreated.
Heal with Oceanfront Recovery
At Oceanfront Recovery, we understand the complex relationship between alcohol and mental health and develop our treatments accordingly. Our experts in alcohol rehab take a holistic, evidence-based approach to treating addiction. We employ customized treatment plans that are devised to fit each individual’s specific needs and desires. In addition, our downtown Laguna Beach location integrates all the advantages of the proximate Pacific Ocean, including surfing excursions for residential clients. We know that integrating healthy new routines is a significant part of healing from addiction. We endeavor to provide our clients with numerous opportunities to find themselves in a healthy and supportive sober community.
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse, fill out Oceanfront Recovery’s online form or contact us at 877.279.1777.
