Aggression After Alcohol - Causes and Treatment Methods

Impact of Alcohol on Behaviour

Alcohol addiction is a major problem in Polish society. There is often talk about the consequences of alcoholism, especially physical ones. Due to addiction, internal organs and the central nervous system suffer. Brain function also changes. Alcohol also affects mental health. But what about behaviour? People under the influence of alcohol usually decide on actions they would refuse in everyday sober life. Although behaviour under the influence of alcohol can be different for everyone, aggression after alcohol is recurring - both verbal and physical aggression.

Characteristics of behaviour under alcohol influence:

  • aggression
  • recklessness
  • need for constant entertainment
  • unpredictability
  • difficulties in relationships with other people
  • lower self-esteem
  • tendency to irritability
  • unpredictability
  • sudden mood swings.

Aggression After Alcohol - Causes of Aggressive Behaviour

Aggression after alcohol can occur in both addicted individuals and those who drink occasionally. It is most commonly observed in men. There can be many causes of aggressive behaviour. Alcohol is supposed to relax and give courage. It is mistakenly believed that it adds self-confidence, although in reality it is a substance that causes depression. Ethyl alcohol affects brain function in people who consume alcohol. Studies have shown that drinking has a particular effect on the prefrontal cortex - which may be the main cause of aggression after alcohol consumption. It is responsible for decision-making and thinking about their consequences, restraining impulsive behaviours and emotions, as well as changing behaviour depending on the situation. When these functions are disrupted under the influence of alcohol, a person does not analyse reality correctly. Decisions made are far from logical thinking. Therefore, alcohol can trigger aggression. This is dangerous not only for drinkers, but also for other people who may become victims of aggression. Sometimes behaviour is also determined by social patterns. Violence and aggressive behaviour can also occur for another reason. Genes may be the cause. Scientists are examining links between damage to the HTR2B gene and aggressive behaviour. Some studies show that mutation of this gene causes increased tendency towards aggression when in contact with alcohol. In such a situation, alcohol is not the direct cause of aggressive behaviour, but only emphasises it. The experiment did not involve many people, so its result is uncertain. Scientists also show that aggression can be observed more often in people who are more spontaneous, carefree in everyday life and cannot properly predict the consequences of their actions.

How to Fight Aggression After Alcohol

After consuming alcohol, an addicted person can be unpredictable. Violence can occur in both alcoholics and people who consume alcohol occasionally. Sometimes it's a spontaneous reaction or an action resulting from provocation. Aggressive behaviour can cause feelings of guilt and a desire to forget about it, thereby deepening the addiction. What to do when a drunk person is dangerous? You definitely should not behave in the same way or provoke greater aggression. If the situation repeats itself, it is worth seeking help from a specialist: a psychologist or psychiatrist. The reasons for aggression and incorrect interpretation of reality due to alcohol consumption can vary. An aggressive person is not always an alcoholic at the same time. Therapy and treatment of addiction or inappropriate behaviour are the key to change. The safest solution is of course giving up alcoholic beverages. This will certainly not lead to any addictions and will not cause behavioural disorders.
:::cta Need help fighting addiction? Our specialists are ready to help you. Call or schedule an online appointment. Call: 880 808 880 | Schedule an Appointment :::