In 2006, about 2 billion people worldwide consumed alcohol regularly. About 76 million of those people who drink alcohol have a problem controlling how much they drink or physically and/or emotionally cannot stop their alcohol use, according to GreenFacts.org.

Psychologically

People often imbibe alcohol because it reduces stress or is helpful for situations that may cause anxiety, such as meeting new people. After repeated self-medication for stress, people can become psychologically dependent on alcohol.

Physical Addiction

The body considers alcohol to be poison. When a person consumes alcohol, the body, namely the liver and brain, tries to fight it. After repeated use, the body eventually succumbs, adapts to the presence of alcohol and becomes dependent on it.

Brain Chemistry

When alcohol enters the brain, the brain releases a chemical called dopamine, which induces a happy demeanor, and endorphins, the human body's natural pain killer. Since the body wants these chemicals, it naturally craves the alcohol which helps produce it, according to BBC News.

Effects

Once the body becomes dependent on alcohol, it becomes physically ill when the person does not take in alcohol, known as withdrawal. This usually results in convulsions, hallucinations and anxiety.

Potential

People with an addiction to alcohol usually have children with genetics that make them more susceptible to alcohol abuse.

Source:

GreenFacts.org: Scientific Facts on Alcohol

MichaelsHouse.com: Why is Alcohol So Addictive?

The Partnership for a Drug Free America: Alcohol

More Information:

BBC News: Why alcohol is addictive?