Emotional Effects of Alcohol

The emotional effects of alcohol may include feelings of euphoria, relaxation, pleasure, mood swings, depression, anxiety, sadness, and anger. There are several factors that determine how alcohol affects a person’s emotional state. Furthermore, why a person drinks also factors into how they will feel once they consume alcohol.

Constant binge drinking often leads to mental health disorders, as well as physical problems. A person who has an addiction to alcohol will often experience a steady decline in their emotions and overall mood. WIthout help from an alcohol addiction treatment center, the emotional effects of alcohol threaten to overtake their entire life, dragging them down under the weight of addiction. 

Alcohol and Depression

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is often linked to depression. People who are depressed may turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication. Ironically, alcohol only leads to further depression. If not treated, both addiction and depression will only get worse over time.

Someone who is not normally depressed may become that way if they binge drink regularly. Alcohol and depression can lead to isolation, changes in behavior, or suicidal thoughts. In addition, a chronic user may have difficulty concentrating or lack interest in social activities, hobbies, responsibilities, or work.

Alcohol and Anxiety

Just like depression, someone who suffers from anxiety disorder may turn to alcohol as a form of relaxation. This can lead to dependency on alcohol if the pattern continues for several weeks or months. Small amounts of alcohol may help a person relax. Continued use will only lead to substance-induced anxiety. 

Anxiety typically occurs once the initial effects of alcohol wear off. It can last for several hours or extend into the next day. A person may increase alcohol consumption to dull their anxiety. However, they become more anxious as they deal with feelings of guilt, worry, or fear of what their alcoholism is doing to them.

Alcohol and Bipolar Disorder

The emotional effects of alcohol are intensified if someone has bipolar disorder. One of the defining characteristics of bipolar disorder is impulsive/compulsive behavior. Therefore, they are more likely to binge more often. The desire to drink increases as the individual experiences severe mood swings that fluctuate from hopelessness to elation. 

In other words, someone with bipolar disorder may drink whether they feel depress or are in a great mood. Regardless of why a person drinks, alcohol intensifies the symptoms of bipolar disorder, making it more difficult to stop. One drink can easily turn into several within a short period.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Therapists identify the emotional effects of alcohol when diagnosing mental disorders. Through dual diagnosis, they can treat co-occurring disorders such as ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder. Once diagnosed, a treatment specialist can develop a treatment plan that addresses both conditions.

The purpose of dual diagnosis treatment programs is to get to the root of the addiction. Treating alcoholism without addressing mental disorders does not solve the problem. A comprehensive addiction treatment program can restore help to someone in recovery.

Get Help for The Emotional Effects of Alcohol Today

If you are currently experiencing the emotional effects of alcohol and need help, then contact Right Step Hill Country. We offer detox, rehab, and aftercare for substance abuse. To find out more, call us at 1.844.675.1628.