1.Self-Medication and Escapism
Alcoholism becomes a self-medicating coping mechanism that lets addicts escape from an unpleasant reality. Individuals with anxiety disorders may turn to alcohol as a means of self-medication, seeking temporary relief from the overwhelming feelings of worry and fear. Alcohol’s sedative effects can provide a temporary escape from the symptoms of anxiety.
Unfortunately, this coping mechanism can backfire and it can become a vicious cycle. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to increased anxiety in the long run. Tolerance builds up, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same calming effect, thereby perpetuating a vicious cycle. Without alcohol, anxiety increases, especially as the body and mind struggle to function without it.
2.Neurobiological Interactions
Both alcohol and anxiety disorders impact neurotransmitters in the brain. Chronic alcohol use can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are also implicated in anxiety disorders.
As the brain needs more alcohol to calm it, the addict struggles to maintain a sense of comfort. Without alcohol, the brain takes over and pushes for more alcohol. This vicious cycle makes it difficult to stop drinking without professional assistance.
Abrupt cessation of alcohol intake can trigger withdrawal symptoms, including heightened anxiety. The brain, accustomed to the sedative effects of alcohol, reacts negatively when deprived of it, intensifying feelings of anxiousness.
3.Genetic Predisposition
Research suggests a genetic predisposition to both alcoholism and anxiety disorders. Individuals with a family history of either condition may be more vulnerable to developing both, indicating a shared genetic component.
Environmental factors, such as a history of trauma or chronic stress, can further amplify the risk of developing both conditions. These triggers can interact with genetic vulnerabilities, contributing to the onset of alcoholism and anxiety.
4.Treatment Implications
Addressing both alcoholism and anxiety concurrently is crucial for successful treatment. Integrated treatment approaches, combining interventions for substance use disorders and anxiety, have shown better outcomes than treating each condition in isolation.
Médications targeting both alcohol dependence and anxiety, coupled with psychotherapeutic interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), can be effective in breaking the cycle of co-occurring disorders. Addicts with co-existing disorders usually need professional help, often long-term and in a rehab facility.
