Why some people can’t stay away from alcohol, even when they know it’s hurting them
CNN••health
Key Points:
- Dr. Chris Knowles, now a surgery professor, struggled with alcohol use disorder after early heavy drinking, inspiring his research and new book on why people drink excessively.
- Alcohol stimulates brain reward centers but also increases stress neurotransmitters, creating a cycle where drinking worsens stress and dependence, according to experts.
- Biological factors, including brain wiring for reward and risk, combined with psychological traits like anxiety or trauma, influence who develops problematic drinking.
- Drinking motivations vary: some drink for fun, while others use alcohol to boost confidence or escape negative emotions, increasing the risk of dependency.
- Reducing alcohol intake benefits health at any level; strategies include abstinence periods, education, support groups, and addressing underlying psychological issues to maintain sobriety.
