At Banyan Detox Stuart, we understand how difficult alcoholism can be to overcome.
This is because there are many different causes of alcoholism, including genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Our alcohol treatment program helps patients treat the underlying causes of their substance use disorder, and new studies regarding the mechanisms behind alcoholism may help improve future treatments.
What Causes Alcoholism?
There are many different factors believed to cause alcoholism. Stress and depression are mental health disorders that may result in self-soothing through drinking, which can lead to alcoholism. But how does this all work on a chemical level in the brain? Inflammation and newly discovered connections between genes and neurotransmitters are two possible causes of alcoholism.
Genes, Neurotransmitters, and Alcoholism
Scientists in Sweden recently found that rats with a reduction of a particular gene in the amygdala (the emotional center of the brain) would choose alcohol over sugar, and even choose alcohol when it resulted in an unpleasant shock. This finding is also reinforced by findings in Texas, where scientists found that deceased humans who had alcoholism also lacked the right levels of a crucial gene codes in this part of the brain. [1]
These are groundbreaking findings that are helping us better map the source of alcoholism within the brain. The missing gene expressions are known to influence neurotransmitters in the brain that can help heal or exacerbate an active addiction.
Inflammation and Alcoholism
Inflammation in the brain is also linked to a higher risk of alcoholism, addiction, and depression. And unfortunately, these conditions can worsen inflammation, resulting in a dangerous cycle. [2]
Finding Alcoholism Treatment
Scientists are working to develop a medication that can treat the neurological causes of alcoholism, and future medications may work hand in hand with other types of treatment. The first step in fighting alcoholism is to safely complete a medically monitored detox program to overcome the physical dependency on alcohol.
Call 888-280-4763 for help fighting alcoholism and finding sobriety once and for all.
Sources:
- Scientific American – Scientists Pinpoint Brain Region That May Be Center of Alcohol Addiction
- National Center for Biotechnology Information – The role of inflammation in depression: from evolutionary imperative to modern treatment target
