1(800) 615-1067Alcohol addiction, like other substance addictions, is thought to be caused by changes in the brain’s reward system. When alcohol is consumed, it can increase the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain may begin to adapt to this increased dopamine release and may require more alcohol to achieve the same level of pleasure and reward. This can lead to physical dependence and cravings for alcohol, which can be difficult to overcome without treatment. Other factors that may contribute to alcohol addiction include genetics, environmental factors, stress, and mental health conditions.