Why Do I Crave Alcohol When I'm Sad?
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Movies and TV shows often feature characters drowning their sorrows in the bottle. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel starts off with Midge going on a massive drinking binge after her husband leaves her. Ironically, this lands her in a comedy club and launches her career — but remember, that’s fiction.
I’m real life, booze rarely makes a sad situation better. So why are we drawn to it when we’re feeling blue? Let’s explore the connection between sadness and alcohol cravings.
It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? “I’m sad.” But despite its apparent simplicity, sadness is a complex emotion. Understanding how it works might not alleviate the feeling, but it can provide insights into how we respond to it. Here's what happens in our brain when we feel sad.
When sadness kicks in, the brain tries to get rid of it and nudges us towards things that might ease discomfort. Alcohol might provide a temporary illusion of relief, but that's all it is, an illusion! At best, it’s only a Band-Aid solution that doesn’t address the actual source of sadness. Here is what’s behind the illusion:
Alcohol doesn't mend a broken heart or solve any problems. It might make us feel better momentarily, but it soon wears off, often leaving us worse off than before. Here’s why:
Things get even more messy when we throw clinical depression into the mix. The neurotransmitter imbalance created by alcohol has an even more drastic effect in people with this condition, since lower serotonin levels already come with the territory.
Alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of antidepressant drugs and might even lead to dangerous side effects. Therapy — another way of treating depression — can also become less effective, since it requires introspection and clear thinking, both of which can be clouded by alcohol.
Chronic alcohol consumption can also lead to a breakdown in personal relationships, job losses, or other significant life challenges. These situations can further contribute to feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness often associated with clinical depression.
The next time sadness knocks on your door and brings along that pesky craving for alcohol, remember, you've got the knowledge, the tools, and the strength to say "Not today!" It's a journey, and every step away from that bottle is a step towards a happier, healthier you. You've got this!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.