Alcoholic drinks are regularly consumed during celebrations, social gatherings, or just to switch off and relax at the end of the day.
Unfortunately, for millions of people worldwide, what starts as casual drinking can spiral into a complex and challenging relationship that's difficult to break. If you have ever asked yourself why you can't stop drinking, you are not alone.
Alcohol dependence is not simply a matter of a lack of willpower or moral failing. It's a condition that is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a mental health disorder that makes it difficult for individuals to reduce their drinking despite putting themselves at risk of serious harm.
Whether you are personally struggling with alcohol or concerned about a loved one, this article will shed light on why some people find it challenging to stop drinking.
Common Reasons Why You Can't Stop Drinking
Even when they recognise alcohol's debilitating effects on lives, work, and relationships, many people still find alcohol a temptation that's difficult to ignore. There are many reasons why quitting can feel like an impossible feat.
Using Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism
The modern life can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. Some people turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism to reduce the symptoms produced by stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions.
Alcohol activates the brain's pleasure centres while blunting the negative ones that produce anxiety and stress. Continued use can lead to a cycle where drinking becomes an escape from life's pressures, making it hard to imagine life without its calming effects.
Social Pressures
Alcohol consumption is woven into the fabric of society, with alcoholic beverages accompanying celebrations, parties, and social gatherings. Cultural acceptance makes alcohol readily available and pervasive, increasing the pressure to drink in social situations or making it difficult to find alternative ways to relax with friends.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Issues
People with alcohol use disorder often have co-occurring mental health conditions, with substance abuse twice as prevalent in adults with a mental health issue. Alcohol is used to self-medicate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, making it difficult to stop drinking without addressing these underlying conditions.
Fear of Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, headaches and even hallucinations can be uncomfortable, painful, and potentially dangerous. Fear of these symptoms can keep many people trapped in a cycle of drinking.
Brain Chemistry Changes
Excessive and prolonged use of alcohol can lead to changes in brain chemistry, making it increasingly difficult to quit drinking. Some of the changes can include:
● The brain loses its ability to produce pleasure from everyday activities, leading to a reward deficit
● Increased sensitivity to stress
● Habit formation, where drinking shifts from a conscious decision to a habitual response
Impaired Executive Function
Chronic drinking can eventually damage the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and prioritising tasks. This impairment can add to the challenges of following through with a commitment to stop drinking.
Seeking Help and Treatment
Getting professional help is a critical step in overcoming alcohol dependence. Various treatment options are available, including:
Behavioural treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy
Medications to help reduce cravings
Support groups
Reset My Future offers a personalised alternative to traditional rehab programs with solutions that are designed to fit your needs and circumstances. Our 12-week program delivers one-on-one support, giving individuals the power to break free from the clutches of alcohol dependence while re-establishing essential life skills.
Unlike traditional inpatient rehab, this program allows you to change your life online from home, helping you maintain your privacy and dignity while allowing you to continue to manage your daily responsibilities.
We have over 30 years of qualified experience in a team dedicated to helping people reclaim their lives and secure a positive future. Take your first step towards a better life by calling or visiting our website to take advantage of our free consultation.
