Alcohol is a popular beverage consumed by almost every adult, in various quantities and for various reasons. Some individuals drink alcohol to socialize, relax or to alleviate stress.

However, alcohol can have a negative impact on behavior and can lead to loss of control. In this article, we will discuss why alcohol can trigger loss of control.

What Happens to the Brain When You Drink Alcohol?

Alcohol, when consumed, enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, resulting in slowed down brain activity. Brain areas responsible for behavior, decision making, and judgment are all affected.

When the brain is affected by alcohol chemicals, it results in reduced inhibitions and less self-control, which can cause a person to act in an uncharacteristic manner.

Factors that Contribute to Loss of Control

Various factors can exacerbate the effects of alcohol, leading to greater levels of loss of control. These factors are:.

Amount of Alcohol Consumed

The more you drink, the more alcohol enters your bloodstream and affects your brain. Consequently, you’re more likely to experience a loss of control.

Drinking Pattern

Drinking on an empty stomach, binge drinking, and drinking hard liquor can all contribute to a loss of control, especially if consumed quickly.

When you drink rapidly, your brain may not have time to register the effects, causing you to over-drink and experience a loss of control.

Personal Tolerance to Alcohol

Personal tolerance to alcohol varies. If you frequently consume large quantities of alcohol, over time, your tolerance to alcohol increases, meaning it takes more alcohol to achieve the same effects.

This can lead to overconsumption, subsequently resulting in loss of control.

Health Condition

If you have certain health conditions, like liver disease, drinking even a small amount of alcohol can aggravate your condition and cause you to experience a loss of control.

Moreover, If you’re taking medication, that interacts negatively with alcohol, even a small amount can impact your brain function, leading to a loss of control.

Why Alcohol Triggers Loss of Control?

Alcohol triggers loss of control because it affects brain centers responsible for decision-making, judgment and behavior. When we drink, we often underestimate the impact alcohol is having on our brain and often feel more confident or relaxed.

Additionally, alcohol reduces our inhibitions, making it easier to do things we know we shouldn’t do. Consequently, alcohol often causes people to act out of character, engage in risky behaviors or say things they wouldn’t typically say.

Physical Symptoms of Loss of Control

The physical symptoms of loss of control vary, but common symptoms include:.

Slurred speech
Inability to walk or stand properly
Aggressiveness or increased risk-taking behavior
Memory loss or blackouts
Poor decision-making abilities

Preventing Loss of Control

The best way to prevent loss of control is to avoid alcohol altogether or consume it in moderation. However, if you choose to drink, below are a few tips to help you stay in control:.

Drink water in between alcoholic drinks.
Eat a meal before drinking to avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
Set a limit on the number of drinks you’ll have before you start.
Avoid drinking when feeling stressed or upset.
Do not engage in activities that require skill or coordination, like driving.
Stay around sober friends who can help you, should you need it.

The Bottom Line

Alcohol can trigger loss of control for a variety of reasons. To prevent this from happening, avoid or moderate drinking, and always be aware of the quantity and type of alcohol consumed, along with your personal tolerance.

If you or someone close to you struggles with alcohol misuse, seek professional advice to overcome it.