6 Ways Quitting Alcohol Benefits The Brain

Consuming high amounts of alcohol can weaken cognitive performance, increase the risk of dementia, and make you more susceptible to psychiatric disorders. Luckily, quitting alcohol can help reverse some of the damage it has on the brain. In fact, studies show that when you quit alcohol, your brain begins to heal and grow new cells, which can help improve your mental health and quality of life.

How Alcohol Affects The Brain

When alcohol enters the bloodstream, it quickly travels to the brain, where it begins to have an impact. Depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, these effects can range from mild to severe. At lower levels, alcohol consumption can lead to feelings of relaxation and euphoria. However, as more alcohol is consumed, these effects begin to change. Motor skills and judgment are impaired, and slurred speech and blurred vision are common. In extreme cases, alcohol poisoning can occur, which can lead to coma or even death.

Alcohol also affects the brain by interfering with neurotransmitters, which send messages between cells. This disruption can cause many symptoms, including mood swings, memory problems, and difficulty thinking clearly. Sometimes, long-term damage to the brain can occur.

How Quitting Alcohol Improves Brain Health

When most people think about the benefits of quitting alcohol, they typically focus on the physical effects. For example, they may think about how quitting can improve their liver health or help them lose weight. However, there are also many benefits to quitting alcohol regarding brain health. Alcohol is a neurotoxin, which means it can damage the brain. Chronic drinking has been linked to several problems, including dementia and cognitive decline. Quitting alcohol can help prevent this damage and preserve brain health. In addition, quitting can also help to improve mental clarity and focus.

1. Dopamine levels begin to normalize

When you drink alcohol, it affects dopamine levels in your brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement. Drinking alcohol increases the level of dopamine in your brain, which is why people often feel a “rush” when they drink. However, chronic alcohol use can desensitize dopamine receptors, leading to motivation, pleasure, and reinforcement problems. Quitting alcohol can help normalize dopamine levels in the brain, improving these issues.

2. Serotonin production increases

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood regulation. It is sometimes referred to as the “happy chemical” because it is associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. Alcohol, however, can harm serotonin levels. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to a decrease in serotonin production, which can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. Quitting alcohol can, therefore, have a positive impact on serotonin levels. Research also shows that quitting alcohol can lead to an increase in serotonin production in the brain. This increase can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

3. Improved mental health

Quitting alcohol can have several benefits for mental health. For starters, it can help to improve sleep quality. Alcohol is a sedative, making it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. As a result, people who drink heavily often wake up tired and groggy. Quitting alcohol can help to improve sleep quality, leading to more restful nights and improved energy levels during the day. In addition, quitting alcohol can help to reduce stress levels. Alcohol is a known anxiety inducer, and people who drink heavily often report higher stress and anxiety levels. Quitting alcohol can help to alleviate some of these symptoms, leading to a calmer and more collected state of mind. Finally, quitting alcohol can help to improve cognitive function. Alcohol consumption has been linked with poorer performance on tasks requiring memory and attention. So, giving up alcohol can help to improve focus and concentration.

4. Better memory and thinking

Alcohol can have a serious impact on memory and thinking. But many people don’t realize that alcohol consumption can also lead to more long-term problems with cognition. Studies have shown that chronic heavy drinking can cause damage to the brain, affecting memory, reasoning, and judgment. Quitting alcohol can help reverse these effects. In one study, abstainers showed significant improvements in memory and executive function after just three weeks of abstinence.

5. Decreased risk of dementia and cognitive decline

Alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. However, quitting alcohol can help to reduce this risk. Studies have shown that former drinkers have a lower risk of dementia than those who continue to drink. This may be because alcohol consumption can damage brain cells and lead to inflammation. Quitting alcohol can help to protect brain cells and reduce inflammation. In addition, quitting alcohol can also help improve overall health, which can, in turn, reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

6. Increased brain volume in the frontal lobe and cerebellum

Research shows that abstaining from alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in brain volume. This is most notable in the frontal lobe and cerebellum, brain areas responsible for executive functioning and motor control. The frontal lobe is responsible for executive functioning, while the cerebellum controls movement and coordination. The increases in brain volume are believed to result from a reduction in inflammation and increased blood flow and neurogenesis. Quitting alcohol can also lead to improvements in cognitive function, as well as a reduction in the risk of developing dementia. So, quitting alcohol can help improve your cognitive function and physical coordination.

Let Us Help You Overcome Alcohol Addiction

If you’re ready to take back your life, we can help. Our team of experts is standing by to provide you with the resources and support you need to quit alcohol for good. Contact us today to get started on your road to recovery. Remember, quitting alcohol can improve your cognitive function, mental health, and quality of life. With our help, you can achieve sobriety and live a healthier, happier life.

Innovative, Evidence-Based Therapies

Because mental health and addiction concerns are so often interconnected, we utilize research-based approaches with evidence-based outcomes that promote overall healing and recovery.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

This low-impact magnetic stimulation activates neurons inside the brain, relieving symptoms associated with depression and anxiety.

qEEG/Brain Mapping

Using brain scanning and readings, we create a map of our patients’ brains, helping us develop more targeted and effective treatments.

Neurofeedback

This process assists patients in visualizing their own brain functionality through continuous EEG readings.

Spravato Therapy

We use carefully monitored doses of Spravato to help patients struggling with complex mental health disorders, including severe depression.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Patients use this practice to help reframe intrusive or negative thought patterns and develop coping techniques for long-term recovery.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

This practice helps patients learn to regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, and process their own thoughts and feelings..

Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR)

Licensed and trained therapists guide patients through this technique for managing stress and anxiety on an ongoing basis.

Individual Therapy

Patients experience one-on-one therapy sessions with a licensed therapist to provide a safe and private place to recover and heal.

Group/Family Therapy

Patients can practice the skills and techniques they have learned in treatment with others in a safe, therapist-guided space.

Contact StoneRidge Centers

5940 E. Copper Hill Dr. Ste B & E, Prescott Valley, AZ. 86314
928-583-7799

We exercise progressive, leading brain science in our treatment approach for patients in our community and across the country who are struggling with mental health and addiction challenges.