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Overcoming Alcohol Dependency and Addiction – Facing the Inner Monster

Writer's picture: Demian Gitnacht, MD, MPH, FAAFPDemian Gitnacht, MD, MPH, FAAFP

Updated: Jan 31

There is an old saying that goes, "I can quit anytime I want, I just don't want to." If you have ever said those words while holding a drink in one hand and making questionable life decisions with the other, you are not alone. Alcohol has a sneaky way of weaving itself into life, starting as an innocent companion at social gatherings and gradually becoming a routine part of the day. It may begin with a glass of whiskey to unwind after work, and before you know it, it is a daily necessity. What starts as a comforting friend can quickly morph into an inner monster, silently taking over thoughts and decisions.


Take Mike, for example. He is a dedicated police officer, constantly responding to high-pressure situations and dealing with the emotional toll that comes with the job. After long hours of work, he finds solace in a couple of beers to decompress. It feels harmless – a well-earned break after a stressful day. But over time, Mike notices he is looking forward to those drinks earlier and earlier. Soon, it is not just about unwinding; it is about making it through the day. As the weight of his responsibilities grows, so does his reliance on alcohol. Whether it is the aftermath of a tough call or the burden of keeping his emotions in check, the drink becomes his escape. He rationalizes it, telling himself it is just a way to take the edge off, but deep down, he wonders if he is losing control. As his tolerance builds, so do his excuses – 'just one more' turns into several, and soon, it feels like the only way he can relax.


As his drinking habits escalate, they begin to seep into his personal life. Mike finds himself withdrawing from his family, opting for a drink in solitude rather than engaging with his wife and kids. Once a loving husband and an attentive father, he now misses important family events, showing up emotionally distant or not at all. His wife notices the change – late nights at the bar turning into early morning apologies and broken promises. The tension grows, and arguments become more frequent. His children sense his absence, feeling disconnected from the father they once admired. Mike's performance at work also starts to slip, and colleagues begin to notice his lack of focus and energy. The weight of it all – his job, his home life, and his inner turmoil – pushes him further into the cycle of dependency, making it harder to break free. This story is not unique – it captures the fine line between alcohol dependency and full-blown addiction.


So, how do you tell the difference? Alcohol dependency is when drinking becomes a go-to coping mechanism rather than an occasional indulgence. It is when the thought of skipping a drink feels unsettling, but life has not completely fallen apart yet. On the other hand, alcoholism is when drinking takes the driver’s seat, despite clear negative consequences. Imagine dependency as feeding the inner monster occasionally, while alcoholism is when the monster completely takes over.


On a neurological level, alcohol dependency and addiction hijack the brain’s reward system. Alcohol triggers the release of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that makes stress and worries fade away. Over time, the brain starts to depend on alcohol for that dopamine rush, producing less of its own, and trapping the person in a cycle of cravings and consumption. It also messes with the GABA and glutamate systems, which control relaxation and anxiety, reinforcing the need for alcohol to feel "normal."


Ketamine assisted psychotherapy offers a fresh perspective for individuals struggling with alcohol dependency and addiction. Unlike traditional treatments, ketamine works by rewiring neural pathways linked to habits and emotional regulation. It interacts with the brain's glutamate system, promoting neural growth and reducing cravings. By breaking unhealthy thought patterns, ketamine therapy provides an opportunity to break free from the cycle and develop healthier coping mechanisms.


Other psychedelic medicines like psilocybin, ayahuasca, and ibogaine have also shown potential in addressing alcohol dependency and addiction. These substances can provide deep emotional insights and help individuals confront the root causes of their drinking. However, seeking treatment through underground ceremonies or unregulated therapists carries risks. Without medical supervision and proper support, individuals might face psychological distress, adverse effects, or even legal trouble. Ketamine, however, is a legally regulated treatment, administered in a safe medical environment with professional guidance to ensure a structured healing process.


That said, ketamine therapy is not a magic wand. True healing demands effort and commitment. A person cannot expect to undergo ketamine therapy and immediately notice life-changing results without making conscious lifestyle adjustments. For example, if someone seeks treatment for alcohol dependency but heads straight to the bar afterward, they are only reinforcing old patterns. The inner monster thrives on routine, and breaking free requires conscious effort, new coping strategies, and a willingness to face life's ups and downs without the crutch of alcohol.


Acknowledging the inner monster is the first crucial step toward recovery. Without recognizing its presence and the grip it has, moving forward becomes nearly impossible. Taking ownership of one's struggles is essential for lasting change, and ketamine therapy, paired with counseling, offers a safe and supportive space to confront these challenges head-on.


It is also important to remember that ketamine assisted psychotherapy is not a replacement for traditional recovery methods like the 12-step program. Instead, it can complement them. The 12-step program provides a structured support network and a sense of accountability that can be incredibly valuable alongside ketamine therapy. Together, they create a well-rounded approach that tackles both the emotional and physiological aspects of alcohol dependency and addiction.


Through carefully guided therapy sessions, ketamine can help uncover deep-seated emotional triggers and behavioral patterns that may have been overlooked in conventional therapy. It is not a miracle cure, but rather a scientifically backed tool that, when combined with counseling, support systems like the 12-step program, and a sincere commitment to change, can pave the way to a healthier, alcohol-free life.


Overcoming alcohol dependency is not about perfection; it is about progress. Facing the inner monster takes courage, patience, and the right support system. It is okay to have doubts, to struggle, and to take things one step at a time. At Kalea Wellness, we understand that every journey is unique, and we are here to offer guidance without judgment. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care through innovative therapies such as ketamine assisted psychotherapy, helping you build healthier habits and regain control. If you are ready to take that first step toward taming the inner monster and creating a more balanced life, we are here to walk alongside you. Change is possible, and it starts with reaching out.


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