This is one of those blogs that is nearer to me than most and I could write for hours on this subject. Why? I grew up in an alcoholic environment and while those years have long passed, certain scars remain with me and have affected relationships to this day. For that reason, I consume perhaps two alcoholic beverages per year at most, and while I do not judge anyone who consumes more, I have seen firsthand the damage using alcohol as a coping mechanism can do to people. The other day, I started thinking why people turn to alcohol to cope with what life throws at them and why it can be a dangerous pit to fall into.
People often turn to alcohol to cope with various stressors and emotional difficulties due to its initial effects of relaxation and euphoria. The allure of alcohol as a coping mechanism is deeply rooted in its accessibility, social acceptance, and immediate impact on mood. However, the short-term relief it offers frequently leads to long-term negative consequences, exacerbating the very issues individuals seek to alleviate.
The Appeal of Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism
Temporary Relief from Stress and Anxiety: Alcohol can produce a calming effect on the central nervous system, which helps to temporarily reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. The immediate sensation of relaxation is appealing to someone facing intense emotional or psychological pressure. I have seen people come home and the first thing they do is pour themselves a drink – saying it relaxes them after a hard (or easy) day at work. Unfortunately, one drink quickly becomes two, three, and four or more. After all, the thinking goes, if one drink relaxes me, then two will relax me more.
Euphoria and Escapism: Alcohol stimulates the release of endorphins and dopamine in the brain, creating feelings of pleasure and euphoria. For many, drinking provides an escape from reality, allowing them to temporarily forget their problems.
Social Acceptance: In many cultures, alcohol consumption is socially acceptable and often encouraged during social gatherings. There is often a puzzled look when you turn down an alcoholic drink and choose a non-alcoholic beverage. This social endorsement makes it easier for individuals to use alcohol as a coping mechanism without immediate judgment or intervention from peers. Years ago at a party, I overheard someone say that a get-together is no fun without alcohol. How sad that viewpoint is.
Cultural and Media Influences: Media portrayals often glamorize alcohol use, depicting it as a means to unwind or deal with life’s challenges. This cultural narrative can reinforce the belief that turning to alcohol is a normal or even sophisticated way to handle stress.
Accessibility: Alcohol is legally and readily available in many parts of the world, making it an easily accessible option for those seeking a quick fix to their problems.
The Downside: How Alcohol Makes Things Worse
Physical Health Consequences: Chronic alcohol use can lead to a multitude of health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and an increased risk of various cancers. These health issues can significantly diminish quality of life and create additional stressors and health care costs.
Mental Health Deterioration: While alcohol may provide temporary relief from anxiety or depression, it often worsens these conditions in the long run. Alcohol is a depressant that can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to worsened mood disorders, increased anxiety, and greater overall psychological distress.
Addiction and Dependence: Regular use of alcohol as a coping mechanism leads to dependence and addiction. This dependency creates a vicious cycle where individuals feel compelled to drink more frequently and in larger quantities to achieve the same effects, further entrenching them in unhealthy patterns. I’ve watched people delay things such as mealtime until they get a few drinks in them. It is a sad sight and shows the dependence some have on alcohol.
Impact on Relationships: Alcohol misuse strains relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Erratic behavior, neglect of responsibilities, and emotional volatility associated with alcohol abuse leads to conflicts, loss of trust, and social isolation. No one wants to be around a volatile person who has been drinking; it is distressing and dangerous. Again, I have firsthand experience watching alcoholics fly into a screaming rage and paranoia at even the most innocuous thing said by someone else. One who has little or no control over their alcohol consumption will often blame others for their addiction, and stressors – pushing people away who want no part of being in the line of fire. They then wonder why they have no love in their life and why people – external or familial – want nothing to do with them.
Financial Strain: Sustaining a drinking habit is financially draining. The costs associated with purchasing alcohol, potential legal issues, and medical expenses related to alcohol misuse contributes to financial instability and stress. It’s ironic that those with financial difficulties or those who complain of such, often spend money on alcohol to cope. Here in Canada, for example, a 40-ounce bottle of whisky can run you fifty dollars. A heavy drinker may drink two of these per week, resulting in a cash layout of one hundred dollars a week. Add that up over a year and, not counting other alcoholic purchases, you are looking at over five thousand dollars per year spent on alcohol.
Impaired Judgment and Risky Behavior: Alcohol impairs cognitive function and decision-making abilities, leading to risky behaviors such as drunk driving, unprotected sex, or aggressive actions. These behaviors can have serious, sometimes irreversible consequences, including legal troubles, injury, or death. How many times have we heard of innocent people getting killed by a drunk driver who crosses into their lane or ends up maiming someone out for a walk.
Interference with Coping Skills Development: Relying on alcohol to manage stress or emotions can prevent individuals from developing healthier coping mechanisms. Instead of learning to navigate challenges through resilience and problem-solving, individuals may become increasingly reliant on alcohol, hindering personal growth and emotional maturity.
Breaking the Cycle
To break the cycle of using alcohol as a coping mechanism, it’s crucial to address the underlying issues that drive individuals to drink. This often involves a multi-faceted approach:
Therapy and Counseling: Professional help from therapists or counselors can provide individuals with tools to manage stress and emotions in healthier ways. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches reframe negative thought patterns and develop effective coping strategies.
Support Groups: Joining support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), provides a sense of community and accountability. This has worked for a few people I know. They joined AA and are now enjoying their third decade of sobriety – one day at a time. Sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges is immensely beneficial as one realizes that others are battling the same addiction and that the struggle is not their own.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep can improve overall well-being and reduce the temptation to turn to alcohol.
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness can help individuals manage stress and anxiety without resorting to alcohol. Some have turned to a higher power or spirituality to turn their lives around.
Building a Strong Support Network: Cultivating strong, supportive relationships can provide emotional support and reduce the need to rely on alcohol to cope with life’s challenges.
While alcohol may offer a temporary escape, its long-term consequences often outweigh the short-lived relief it provides. By addressing the root causes of stress and developing healthier coping mechanisms, individuals can improve their well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.
John Berkovich Talks 