Is Alcohol a Stimulant? Debunking the Myth
Alcohol abuse and addiction are common problems throughout the United States. In fact, some statistics indicate that as many as 21 million adults in the US have a substance abuse issue. Many of these people abuse alcohol alone or in combination with other addictive substances. There are many conflicting opinions about the nature of alcohol and the effects that it has on the body. For instance, is alcohol a stimulant or a depressant? Although the answer is important, find out why seeking an alcohol addiction treatment center in California is even more vital.
Is Alcohol a Drug?
Many people tend to view alcohol and drugs as two entirely separate things. However, alcohol is still classified as a drug due to the mind-altering effects it creates in those who consume it. This is part of the reason why alcohol addiction creates a real struggle that leads to physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Further confusion comes into play when some studies classify alcohol as a stimulant and others classify it as a depressant.
Your path to recovery is waiting
and we’re here to help.
Our admissions specialist are available 24/7 to listen to your story and get you started with next steps.
Why call us?
Without question, alcohol is a drug. However, is alcohol a stimulant, or does it create a depressing effect on the central nervous system? We will break down this common misconception regarding alcohol below.
Is Alcohol a Stimulant or a Depressant?
One of the most pervasive myths about alcohol is its effects on the body. Some people immediately classify alcohol as a central nervous system depressant. This may be due to relaxed feeling they get when they consume a certain amount of it. However, there’s a little more to this myth than meets the eye.
The truth of the matter is that alcohol, in small doses, acts as a stimulant on the body. After a couple of drinks, an individual will usually experience an energizing effect. They may display bolder actions that would normally be out of their comfort zone. Additionally, they may become talkative and socially outgoing. The confusion regarding the effects of this substance doesn’t end there, however. What about the times when alcohol is consumed in larger amounts?
When a person consumes more alcohol than what the body can metabolize and eliminate in a certain timeframe, they will begin to experience the depressant effects of the drug. In larger amounts, alcohol slows down the activity of specific receptors in the brain. This can result in a loss of coordination, stumbling, mental confusion, drowsiness, and other depressant effects. It is important to consider that the effects experienced by alcohol can vary somewhat depending on other factors as well. Some of these include the size of the person drinking and whether or not they have food in their system at the time.
Why is Alcohol Addiction a Common Problem?
Alcohol addiction is a common problem among American adults. For starters, alcohol is legal. This leads many people to consider it safer than it actually is. Secondly, alcohol is generally much more socially acceptable than other drugs and potentially addictive substances. This can lead to a larger percentage of the population using it and potentially becoming addicted to it. Finally, alcohol is fairly cheap in relation to the cost of other substances. It’s readily available in virtually all locations, making it a preferred drug of choice for many.
The Importance of a Quality Alcohol Rehab Facility
A high-quality drug and alcohol rehab center in California is essential for those desiring to break free from addictions. At Serenity Lodge, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment programs in a tranquil California setting. Nestled in a beautiful area of spacious land, our facility offers state-of-the-art treatment programs while still providing the comfort of home. Some of our amenities include the following:
- Fitness therapy with a full-service gym
- Nutritional prepared mealsal prepared mealsal therapy
- Spa and sauna
- Racquetball and golf
- Movie theatre
If you or someone you love is struggling with the weight of addiction, you don’t have to suffer alone. You or your loved one can overcome serious addiction by seeking treatment at a quality rehabilitation center. Call Serenity Lodge today at [Direct] to find out how we can help you get started on the road to recovery.
Leave a reply
