Why Does Alcohol Make Some People Angry?
Alcohol is such an acceptable form of drug use in today’s society that many people don’t think about how it changes their behavior while under the influence. When consumed, the relationship between alcohol and anger is influenced by alcohol impairing the functioning of the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for impulse control, judgment, and rational decision-making. This impairment reduces the ability to evaluate consequences, interpret social cues accurately, and regulate emotional responses, which can cause aggression and anger.
The relationship between alcohol and aggression is also influenced by environmental and personal factors. In social settings, alcohol’s disinhibiting effects can combine with situational triggers like crowding, noise, or perceived provocations to increase the likelihood of aggressive responses. There are also individual factors to consider, including past experiences with aggression, personality traits, and personal expectations about alcohol’s effects. Research has shown that up to 50% of alcohol-dependent men display violent behavior, with the risk of being involved in violence five times higher in people involved with alcohol consumption. These statistics highlight the dangers of drinking alcohol and how it can negatively impact anyone who consumes alcohol, even in moderation.
What Alcohol Makes You Aggressive?
Everyone reacts differently to various types of alcohol, so it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact type of alcohol that makes an individual aggressive. However, drinking spirits (tequila, whiskey, etc.) were more likely to evoke aggressive emotions compared to other types of alcohol, with nearly a third of spirit drinkers linking this beverage to feelings of aggression, according to the Global Drug Survey.
However, it’s important to know that any alcoholic beverage can potentially contribute to aggressive behavior since it’s primarily the ethanol content and amount consumed that matters, not whether it’s beer, wine, or spirits. The key factor in alcohol-related aggression and addiction is how alcohol affects brain function, particularly areas responsible for impulse control and judgment. Other factors that can influence how alcohol might affect someone’s behavior:
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) – Higher levels typically increase the risk of aggressive behavior
- Individual tolerance levels
- Personal history and temperament
- Environmental conditions (crowded spaces, loud noise, etc.)
- Pre-existing mood or stress levels
- Speed of consumption
- Whether food has been consumed
- Medications or other substances that might interact with alcohol
Does Alcohol Cause Irritability?
Yes, alcohol can directly cause irritability during intoxication and afterward, particularly during withdrawal or hangover periods. When drinking, alcohol disrupts the brain’s normal chemical balance, affecting neurotransmitters that regulate mood and behavior. This disruption can make people more sensitive to stress, less patient, and quicker to anger. The impairment of the prefrontal cortex, which helps regulate emotional responses, can make it harder to manage feelings of frustration or annoyance.
During the hangover or withdrawal phase, irritability often becomes more pronounced due to several mental factors. The body experiences a rebound effect as it tries to restore balance, leading to increased anxiety and stress hormone levels. Physical discomfort from dehydration, headaches, and poor sleep quality can further contribute to irritable moods. Additionally, alcohol’s interference with sleep patterns means even if someone sleeps for several hours after drinking, they likely haven’t gotten quality rest, leaving them tired and more prone to irritability the next day.
Long-term alcohol use can create more persistent irritability problems by:
- Altering brain chemistry and stress response systems
- Disrupting normal sleep-wake cycles
- Contributing to nutritional deficiencies that affect mood
- Creating ongoing anxiety about drinking behaviors
- Straining relationships and work responsibilities, leading to increased stress
- Affecting hormone levels that influence mood stability
Why Does Alcohol Irritate Me?
Alcohol can irritate some people for several biological and genetic reasons, including:
Alcohol Intolerance: Some people lack sufficient amounts of the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2), which helps break down alcohol. When these individuals drink alcohol, they may experience:
- Facial flushing
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Headaches
Histamine Response: Alcohol, especially wines and beer, contains histamines. Some people are sensitive to histamines or lack the enzymes to break them down properly, leading to:
- Nasal congestion
- Skin flushing
- Headaches
- Asthma-like symptoms
Sulfite Sensitivity: Many alcoholic beverages contain sulfites as preservatives. People sensitive to sulfites may experience:
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
Other Ingredients: Some people may react to other components in alcoholic drinks:
- Gluten in beer (affecting those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity)
- Grape proteins in wine
- Added preservatives or flavorings
Medication Interactions: Some medications can interact with alcohol and cause increased sensitivity or adverse reactions.
If someone experiences consistent negative reactions to alcohol, they should consult a treatment specialist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate guidance.
What Is the First Step For the Treatment of Alcoholism?
The first crucial step in treating alcoholism is acknowledging that there is a problem and seeking help, which is often the most challenging part of the recovery journey. This acknowledgment typically comes after experiencing negative consequences from drinking, such as strained relationships, work problems, health issues, or legal troubles. Many people struggling with alcohol addiction initially go through a period of denial, making this step particularly difficult. However, recognizing the need for help and reaching out to addiction treatment providers, addiction specialists, or support groups marks a pivotal moment in recovery.
Once a person accepts they need help, the next immediate action is usually a thorough medical evaluation to determine the appropriate level of care needed. This assessment helps healthcare providers understand the severity of the addiction, identify any co-occurring mental health conditions, and evaluate physical health concerns. During this time, medical professionals can also determine if the person will need to detox from alcohol, as withdrawal can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. This evaluation phase is essential for creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol dependence.
Overcome Alcohol and Anger Issues With Help From WhiteSands Treatment
The relationship between alcohol and anger is undeniable and the only way to lessen the anger issues that come with alcohol consumption is to find treatment to end drinking habits. Addiction to alcohol is a disease, but it can be overcome with professional help. WhiteSands Treatment has alcohol addiction treatment facilities across Florida to help patients access the caring and supportive care they need to end their dependence on alcohol. We take a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring each patient receives customized care to maximize their recovery chances. Don’t let anger and alcohol addiction negatively impact your life any longer. WhiteSands Treatment is here to support your recovery journey every step of the way. Please call us at 877-855-3470 to discover more about how our treatment process can aid your recovery today.
External Sources
- National Library of Medicine: Alcohol-Related Aggression—Social and Neurobiological Factors
- The Independent: Spirits most likely type of alcohol to make people aggressive, study finds
- Mental Health Foundation: Alcohol and mental health
- National Library of Medicine: Effects of Acute Alcohol Consumption on the Processing of Emotion in Faces: Implications for Understanding Alcohol-Related Aggression
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
