Alcohol addiction is becoming increasingly prevalent across the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that excessive alcohol consumption is linked to 2.6 million deaths annually, accounting for 4.7% of all fatalities worldwide. A 2019 public health survey revealed that approximately 400 million people globally suffer from alcohol use disorders, with 209 million of them grappling specifically with alcohol dependence.
In American society, alcohol addiction is often minimized due to the cultural normalization of drinking, particularly in social settings and celebrations. Unlike illicit substances such as heroin or fentanyl, alcohol doesn’t carry the same stigma, despite being just as harmful—or even more so. Prolonged alcohol use can cause significant and lasting damage to brain function, especially when consumption begins at a young age.
How Alcohol Affects the Brain
Alcohol addiction interferes with the brain’s ability to function properly, altering both its structure and processes. It disrupts areas responsible for balance, memory, speech, and decision-making. Chronic alcohol use can cause neurons to shrink, leading to permanent impairments in brain activity.
One common consequence of excessive drinking is temporary memory loss, often called “blacking out.” During these episodes, individuals may appear alert and functional but will have no recollection of their actions or conversations once the alcohol’s effects subside. This phenomenon is particularly frequent among younger drinkers, such as college students, and is a clear sign of alcohol use disorder. It should not be dismissed as a harmless mistake from a night out.
Recognizing the Signs and Risks of Alcohol Abuse and Overdose
Alcohol overdose happens when a person consumes more alcohol than their body can process, causing blood alcohol levels to rise to dangerous levels. In such cases, the brain’s ability to regulate essential survival functions is compromised.
Key functions affected include breathing, heart rate, and body temperature regulation. Symptoms of alcohol overdose may include:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Reduced sensory responsiveness
In extreme cases, an overdose can result in permanent brain damage or even death.
Warning signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Difficulty controlling alcohol consumption
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or stop drinking
- Spending excessive time drinking, obtaining alcohol, or recovering from its effects
- Strong cravings for alcohol
- Neglecting responsibilities due to drinking
- Continued alcohol use despite negative impacts on health or relationships
- Prioritizing alcohol over social or professional activities
- Drinking in risky situations, like driving
- Needing more alcohol to feel its effects (increased tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms without alcohol
While alcohol may seem less dangerous than other substances due to its accessibility, this availability makes it particularly hazardous. In the event of an alcohol overdose, immediate medical attention is critical—call 911 or your local emergency line right away.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
Recovery from alcohol addiction typically begins with detox, followed by residential rehabilitation. Outpatient programs, such as partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient care, are also valuable components of a comprehensive treatment plan. Each phase of recovery equips individuals with coping tools and access to medical support to help them achieve long-term sobriety.
At Rise Above Treatment, we believe that everyone deserves a supportive and compassionate environment for their recovery journey. Our programs provide this across all levels of care, offering evidence-based methods to ensure lasting results. Whether this is your first time seeking treatment or you’ve been down this road before, we’re here to help make it your last.
Take the first step toward a healthier, sober future by contacting the Rise Above Treatment admissions team today.
About Rise Above Treatment
Rise Above Treatment is a Murrieta, California based addiction treatment center that is committed to helping people recover from drug, alcohol, and other mental health concerns that are holding them back. We offer a range of services, including medical detox, residential rehab, addiction PHP, sober living options, and intensive outpatient programs. If you or a loved one is experiencing addiction, visit us at riseabovetreatment.com or give us a call at (855) 948-6325 and begin your journey to recovery.
