What Are the Basics to a Recovery From an Alcohol Addiction?
Some historians believe that alcohol is the oldest mind altering substance used by man. Its use is prevalent in human history. In the United States, we have 18 million alcoholics. This disease costs Americans about 40 - 60 billion dollars yearly. In fact, the cost of alcoholism in this country is greater than the cost of cancer. Estimates and the problems it causes are monumental, to say the least. Alcoholism affects the brain similar to other addicting chemical substances and behaviors. Dopamine is increased in the pleasure center of the brain and this produces a significant euphoria. The rush or euphoria that an alcoholic experiences from drinking is not the same feeling that other people experience when drinking. GABA, the body's natural tranquilizer, is another major neurotransmitter that is affected by alcohol. Alcohol increases the actions of GABA in the brain. It also alters serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin affects mood, sleep, appetite and other p...