Stress and Alcohol

Alcohol's role in the relief of stress is reviewed. Limitations are observed in recent studies of alcohol and stress. Where stress has been viewed as synonymous with anxiety or tension, many potential stressors and stress responses have been unaccounted for or ignored. Stress is distinguished from tension and anxiety, and a "stress reduction hypothesis" of alcohol abuse is suggested in place of the recently prominent "tension reduction hypothesis." Alcohol has been found to be a frequent contributor to increased stress. Stress-relief drinking is concluded to be one of several prominent factors in the etiology of alcohol abuse and dependency. Suggestions are made for research and treatment.