Alcoholism is perhaps the most common form of drug abuse in North America today. Scientists report that the reason alcohol is so popular to people is because it is pleasant, relaxing, and is considered a "social beverage." But what individuals often do not take in to consideration is the fact that alcohol dulls the brain and confuses physical reactions. This can lead to numerous injuries, accidents, and death. Alcohol affects every part of an alcoholic's life: their body, their mind and their family life. The body has a natural chemical that gives a feeling of a "natural high". It happens in the presence of a life-endangering situation. This chemical is adrenaline, which is meant to prepare the body for defense in the case of an emergency. Alcohol tricks the body into giving off the chemical and in turn, gets the "natural high" feeling. The problem alcohol has is that when it goes to the brain, it blocks the synapses in the brain, that portion of the brain cannot perform its usual tasks; such as speaking, walking, seeing, etc. After the body has consumed a certain amount of alcohol, it cannot rely on the upper brain, to operate itself. Instead it depends on the lower brain, due to this the person will not know what they are doing or saying. Since the body is in the "high" state for so long, instead of just for a few minutes, it becomes addicted and depends on the alcohol for normal function. Alcohol has a tremendous affect on the body. In small doses, alcohol has a tendency to provide warmth, confront and relaxation. But when the drinker is unable to control the amount he or she has, they become more outgoing, self confident, and uninhibited. Alcohol mostly affects the liver. Normally, the liver processes fat and converts them into calories, but it also can process alcohol. Upon exiting the liver, the alcohol is distributed through out other organs including the lungs, brain and kidneys. After alcohol reaches the brain, it num...
