Toxic alcohol addiction changes brain chemistry: Psychotherapist

Colombo, July 22 (Daily Mirror) - Addiction to toxic alcohol can disrupt the brain’s natural reward system by triggering excessive releases of dopamine, leading to long-term changes in brain function, Counselor and Psychotherapist Dr. Chaminda Weerasiriwardane said.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Weerasiriwardane explained that dopamine is a chemical in the brain responsible for feelings of satisfaction, motivation and pleasure. It is naturally released in controlled bursts during activities linked to well-being and survival, such as enjoying a meal, socialising, achieving personal goals, exercising or practising meditation.

He said dopamine normally follows a balanced rhythm in the brain, helping people experience satisfaction from everyday activities. However, toxic alcohol addiction causes unusually high levels of dopamine to be released, overwhelming brain cells.

“When the brain is repeatedly exposed to excessive dopamine, the cells begin to reduce the number or sensitivity of dopamine receptors through a process known as receptor downregulation,” he explained.

As a result, people addicted to toxic alcohol may gradually lose the ability to experience satisfaction from normal daily activities. This condition pushes them to seek stronger stimulation to achieve the same feeling of pleasure, creating a cycle of addiction, he said.

Dr. Weerasiriwardane warned that this disruption of the brain’s reward system makes recovery more challenging and highlights the importance of early intervention and support for those affected by alcohol addiction.