If you have a problem with alcohol, the thought of quitting is probably pretty daunting. And the thought of quitting forever maybe even worse! You might be wondering “Can alcoholics ever drink again?’. We explore this question thoroughly in this blog.
If you believe you may be an alcoholic and need professional help to quit drinking, contact Liberty Home at +27 021 300 3455.
Understanding Alcoholism and Relapse
Alcoholism is a chronic, relapsing condition involving an inability to control drinking despite harmful consequences. This addiction changes the brain’s chemistry, creating a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. Once someone has crossed the threshold into addiction, the brain’s reward system is permanently changed, making it nearly impossible to return to moderate drinking.
Why Relapse is a Constant Threat
For alcoholics, even one drink can cause relapse. There are a number of reasons why this is the case. Because of this, our advice is always to not attempt to drink alcohol again if you have previously developed a serious problem with alcohol.
Brain Chemistry Changes
Alcohol significantly impacts brain chemistry, particularly the neurotransmitter systems associated with pleasure and reward. When a person with Alcohol Use Disorder drinks, their brain releases large amounts of dopamine, reinforcing the behaviour and creating a strong desire to drink more.
Over time, the brain becomes dependent on alcohol to release dopamine, leading to addiction. Once these changes occur, they are largely irreversible. Attempting to drink again can quickly reactivate these altered pathways, leading to a high risk of relapse.
Psychological Triggers
Psychological triggers play a major role in relapse. Stress, social situations, and emotional challenges can trigger the urge to drink. If you have previously struggled with alcohol addiction, these triggers can be incredibly potent. Drinking again, even in seemingly controlled situations, can quickly lead to a loss of control.
Behavioural Patterns
Addiction is not just about physical dependence; it also involves ingrained behavioural patterns. Habits and routines associated with drinking are hard to break. Once someone starts drinking again, these old habits can resurface, making it difficult to maintain moderation. The familiar environment and behaviours can act as powerful cues, leading to a rapid return to excessive drinking.
The Illusion of Control
Many alcoholics might believe they can control their drinking after a period of sobriety. This belief is often fueled by the misconception that they have “learned their lesson” and can now handle alcohol responsibly. However, this is rarely the case.
The nature of addiction means that even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a full-blown relapse. The question “Can alcoholics ever drink again?” must be answered with a firm no, as the illusion of control is one of the most dangerous aspects of recovery.
The Science Behind Relapse
Research consistently shows that relapse rates for alcoholics who attempt to drink again are alarmingly high. Studies indicate that over 90% of those who try to return to controlled drinking after a period of abstinence eventually relapse into problematic drinking patterns.
Neurobiological Factors
Neuroimaging studies have revealed that the brains of people with Alcohol Use Disorder show significant changes in areas related to reward, motivation, and memory. These changes do not simply revert to normal after a period of abstinence. Instead, the brain remains sensitized to alcohol, meaning that alcohol exposure can trigger intense cravings and a rapid return to addiction.
Genetic Predisposition
Genetics also play a crucial role in alcoholism and relapse. People with a family history of addiction are more likely to develop AUD and experience higher rates of relapse. Genetic factors can influence how alcohol affects the brain and body, making it more challenging to control drinking once it has become problematic.
Psychological Vulnerabilities
People with AUD often have co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. These psychological vulnerabilities can increase the likelihood of relapse. Drinking again can exacerbate these issues, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
The Importance of Total Abstinence
Given the high risk of relapse, total abstinence is the safest and most effective approach for people recovering from alcoholism. Here’s why maintaining sobriety is crucial:
1. Preventing Relapse
The most obvious benefit of total abstinence is preventing relapse. By avoiding alcohol entirely, you effectively eliminate the risk of reactivating the brain’s addictive pathways. This approach removes the temptation and the opportunity to fall back into old patterns.
2. Physical Health
Long-term alcohol use can cause significant damage to the liver, heart, and other vital organs. Abstaining from alcohol allows your body to heal and recover from the damage caused by drinking. Maintaining sobriety also helps reduce the risk of serious health issues such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and cancer.
3. Mental Health Stability
Alcohol often exacerbates mental health issues. By staying sober, you can better manage your mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This stability is crucial for a successful recovery and a higher quality of life.
4. Building Strong Relationships
Alcoholism often strains or destroys relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Maintaining sobriety allows you to rebuild trust and it fosters healthy, supportive relationships. A sober lifestyle allows people to engage more meaningfully with their loved ones.
5. Personal Growth and Fulfillment
Sobriety opens the door to personal growth and fulfilment. Without the cloud of addiction, you can pursue your goals and passions more effectively. This sense of purpose and achievement is vital for long-term recovery and overall well-being.
Strategies for Maintaining Sobriety
Long-term sobriety requires ongoing effort and support. Here are some strategies that can help:
1. Build a Strong Support System
Having a strong support system is crucial for recovery. This includes family, friends, and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). At Liberty Home, we encourage everyone at our centre to attend recovery meetings, as we believe meeting attendance can contribute towards your recovery.
2. Engage in Therapy and Counseling
Professional therapy can address underlying issues related to alcoholism, such as trauma, anxiety, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can equip people with addiction with tools to manage triggers and prevent relapse.
3. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Finding healthy ways to cope with stress and emotional challenges is essential in recovery. This can include exercise, mindfulness practices, hobbies, and other activities that promote well-being. Developing these coping mechanisms can help you manage cravings and avoid relapse.
4. Pursue a Balanced Lifestyle
Maintaining a balanced lifestyle supports overall well-being. This includes regular exercise, a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and meaningful activities. A balanced lifestyle can enhance physical and mental health, making it easier to stay sober.
Find a New Life With Liberty Home
If you have been reliant on alcohol to make you feel good, allow you to unwind, and help you socialize for years or even decades, the thought of stopping may be unpleasant. But at Liberty Home, we know that quitting alcohol will be the best thing you ever do.
If you can do the work, life is so much better without alcohol. And we can show you how to live a full life without touching alcohol again. Contact us on +27 021 300 3455 and we will tell you how we can help you do this. We look forward to your call.
