Alcohol & Memory Loss

Alcohol has become a big part of many social cultures, often being seen as a way to relax, unwind or celebrate occasions. However, when looking deeper into the impacts of alcohol and its lasting impact on the body, we learn how it can impact our brains, leading to short and long-term effects on memory.

At New Leaf Recovery, we understand that alcohol can be consumed in modest amounts; however, we also know that it can become a vital need for some individuals who then struggle with addiction. We are here to offer support for those struggling with alcohol abuse, providing support, advice and rehabilitation for those who seek a brighter future.

The Connection Between Alcohol & Memory

The connection between alcohol and memory loss is well-documented through scientific research over the years, giving us great insight into the impacts of alcohol on the brain and body.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. It also directly interferes with the brains ability to form and retrieve memories.

When drinking, alcohol primarily affects the hippocampus, a crucial part of the brain that is responsible for converting short-term memories into long-term ones. The activity of the brains neurotransmitters is also disrupted, meaning the brain cells are unable to communicate. These disruptions to the brains ‘normal’ function make it difficult for new information to be consolidated, leading to the gaps in memory, sometimes referred to as a ‘blackout’.

What Causes Alcohol-Induced Memory Loss?

There are several factors that can contribute to alcohol’s detrimental effect on memory, including:

• Brain Cell Damage: Heavy, chronic alcohol consumption can result in structural changes to the brain, including a reduction in brain volume and damage to brain cells, particularly those that are vital for memory.
• Neurotransmitter Interference: Alcohol enhances the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), an inhibitory neurotransmitter, that slows down brain activity. It also supresses glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that is crucial for memory formation. This imbalance that is caused severely impacts the hippocampus’s function.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Heavy drinking can often lead to poor nutrition and a deficiency of Vitamin B1 (thiamine). This vitamin is essential for brain function. When deficient for long periods of time, this can result in serious memory disorders like Wenicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.

At New Leaf Recovery, we are here to support those who have been struggling with heavy alcohol consumption, providing a safe space for detoxification and rehabilitation. Whether for yourself or a loved one, speak with our team today and get the support that you need.

Short Term & Long-Term Memory Loss

Alcohol’s impact on memory can manifest in both the short and long term.

Short Term Memory Loss

Often, when consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time, individual can experience ‘blackouts’, or periods of memory loss for events that occurred whilst they were intoxicated. Blackouts can occur in two forms:

• Fragmented blackouts: This is when memory loss is patchy. Some memories can be recalled when prompted, but it appears hazy and only in small chunks. The whole memory remains incomplete.
• En-bloc blackouts: This a complete memory loss with no recollection whatsoever. It is simply a time that didn’t exist in your memory.

Some individuals may feel that this is a case of forgetting details; however, it is important to know that this represents a failure of the brain to properly record the memories due to alcohol consumption.

If you have been experiencing short term memory loss and want to seek support for alcoholism, speak with our team at New Leaf today by giving us a call, or reach out to us online. Our team are here to help and support you or your loved ones through alcohol addiction and recovery.

Long Term Memory Loss

When alcohol use has been heavy for extended periods of time, this can lead to more pervasive and permanent memory impairment, even when sober. This can include:

• Difficulties in learning new things: New skills or remembering recent events becomes difficult.
• Impaired executive functions: Planning, problem-solving and decisions making can become problematic.
• Reduced verbal fluency: Being able to recall words or express thoughts clearly becomes a struggle.
• An increased risk of dementia: Chronic alcohol abuse is a significant risk factor for various forms of dementia, including alcohol-related dementia.

If you have been struggling with alcohol consumption, or want to seek advice for a loved one, reach out to New Leaf Recovery today. Our team is on hand to help and support you and your loved ones through detox & rehab, finding a healthier future.

Reversing the Damage of Alcohol & Memory Loss

For many individuals, there may be some good news in the earlier stages. Some alcohol-induced memory and cognitive impairment can be reversed or significantly improved with sustained sobriety. The brain is an incredible organ with a big capacity for healing; however, for this to happen, alcohol consumption must be stopped and there must be engagement in recovery programmes that are designed to help.

Whether for a loved one, or yourself, it is important to remember that you are not alone in experiencing memory loss due to alcoholism. Help is available; New Leaf Recovery is a private rehabilitation centre that supports individuals who have been struggling with alcohol addiction, using effective rehabilitation techniques that can help with the recovery process and long-term sobriety. Reach out to our team today and get the support that you need.

Alcohol Help & Support From New Leaf Recovery

At New Leaf Recovery, we understand the connection between alcohol, the brain and overall wellbeing. Our team of compassionate individuals are on hand to provide a supportive environment for safe detoxification and holistic rehabilitation.

Our detoxification process helps to cleanse the body of toxins built up from alcohol abuse, allowing your body to heal and recover. Although detox can vary foreach client, we provide a safe space in which clients can detox, with 24/7 and medical support. Start your recovery today with detoxification at New Leaf Recovery.

Having completed detoxification, we offer clients a holistic rehabilitation programme, designed to help everyone find new ways of coping with temptations of daily life. Our programmes have your health and wellbeing at the centre of them. We offer a range of therapies including:

• Art Therapy
• Meditation
• Movement Therapy
• Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Counselling
• 1-2-1 and Group Sessions
• Health & Wellbeing

Each programme has been proven to help clients process their emotions and past traumas, understanding the root of their addictions in order to overcome them. We also help clients get started on the 12 Steps Programme, giving everyone the tools that they need to maintain sobriety post-rehab.

New Leaf Recovery works with you to find the stay that works for you and your budget. Our stays start from 7 days, with options to stay with us for 28 days before stepping back into daily life in a healthier way. Speak with our team today to find out how we can best support you with your recovery.