Why Can’t I Stop Drinking? Learn the Truth!
Hello everyone. I’m not a doctor or a trained professional, but I have experienced this myself and I know what I’m talking about. However, if you are struggling with alcohol, I strongly encourage you to seek professional help and talk to a doctor.
Today, I want to answer one of the most common questions I get asked: “Jarmo, why can’t I stop drinking?”
The answer lies in the way the brain becomes conditioned—so let’s use a simple example: a dog.
A Dog’s Conditioning and Human Addiction
Dogs learn to associate certain stimuli with specific reactions. For example, if you ring a bell every time you feed a dog, it will eventually learn that the bell means food is coming. Over time, the dog doesn’t even need to see the food—the sound of the bell alone makes it feel hungry.
The same mechanism works in humans, but the triggers can be much deeper and more complex.
Traumatic Experiences and Alcoholism
When a child goes through a traumatic event, their brain records every detail: sounds, facial expressions, smells, and emotions. This leaves lasting imprints on the mind.
As an adult, if I meet someone who moves their face in the same way my stepfather did when he yelled at me, my body reacts with fear—even though there is no real danger. This happens automatically and subconsciously.
Alcoholism works in the same way. Certain situations, emotions, or environments can trigger the urge to drink, even if the person doesn’t consciously understand why.
Why Does the Drinking Response Happen?
The brain constantly scans the environment, looking for familiar patterns. It’s like facial recognition software, searching its database for past experiences.
This happens so fast that you don’t even notice it. Suddenly, you feel anxiety, fear, or a strong urge to drink.
For me, this meant that the moment I felt uncomfortable, I wanted to grab a bottle—because I knew it would temporarily block out the feeling.
As time goes on, addiction deepens. The brain even starts seeking out situations that trigger the drinking response. (This is something I experienced myself.)
Alcoholism and Brain Plasticity
This is called neuroplasticity—our brains are flexible and change based on experiences. That’s why many people refer to chemical addiction as a disease.
Drinking is no longer just a habit; it becomes deeply rooted in the brain. It follows an “if-then” response:
- If I’m stressed → Then I must drink.
- If I feel anxious → Then I must drink.
- If I’m tired → Then I must drink.
Over time, this process becomes automatic—almost compulsive.
How to Break This Cycle?
The good news is this: You can break the cycle by pressing the override button.
What does this mean in practice?
- Pause and identify the trigger. What are you feeling right now? What caused this feeling?
- Ask yourself: Do I really need alcohol, or is this just my brain’s automatic reaction?
- Choose a different response. Do something else that gives you relief—go for a walk, call a friend, take deep breaths.
At first, this will feel difficult. But every time you press the override button, you strengthen a new, healthier pattern in your brain.
What If I Fail?
Breaking an addiction is not a straight road. Relapses may happen, but don’t let them discourage you. Every attempt to stop drinking is a step in the right direction.
The most important thing is to seek help from the right people. Don’t ask your drinking buddies for advice—they are not the ones who can help you. Talk to people who have been through this before you.
My Experience in Working Life
When I was still working, I did my job, but at the same time, my mind was signaling an escape—drinking to “relax.” This was even seen as “acceptable” as long as I fulfilled my responsibilities.
In reality, I was destroying myself.
Once you get sober, you start thinking more clearly and can say NO. I realized that I could relax in other ways—without alcohol.
A Final Message to You
How many things in your life have you conditioned yourself to associate with drinking?
Now is the time to start pressing the override button.
Your first step doesn’t have to be big. It can be as small as pausing before you open the next bottle. Or simply realizing that you have a choice.
Remember:
You are not your thoughts. You are not your past. You can change this.
If you need help, get it now. Don’t wait until tomorrow. Today could be the first day of your new life. 💪🏼
This site isn’t just about me—it’s about you. If you’re looking for real talk, practical strategies, and a new perspective on life and success, welcome to New Style in Life.
👉 Follow my journey, challenge old habits, and let’s build something better—together.
It’s good to keep in mind that it’s all about Emotions and Managing Them.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this article! 🙏 I truly hope you found it helpful and inspiring as you work toward achieving your network marketing goals.
💬 I’d love to hear from you! If you have any questions, thoughts, or experiences to share, please leave a comment below. Your feedback not only helps me improve but also creates a space for us to learn and grow together.
✨ Transparency Note:
This article was created with the assistance of AI technology to ensure it’s packed with valuable insights and actionable tips. Additionally, some of the links included are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase or sign up through them—at no extra cost to you. This helps support the work I do to bring you helpful content.
Thank you again for your support, and I’m excited to see your success in network marketing! 🚀
Warm regards,
Jarmo