Because beta-endorphin contributes to a sense of well-being by soothing stress and facilitating social affiliation, those of us with naturally low levels may experience less sense of safety and connection, even as children, on a day-to-day basis. That is, until John Barleycorn is invited to the party! Data such as these suggest that some of us are especially likely to find alcohol reinforcing because we can use it to medicate an innate opioid deficiency. Perhaps the “hole in my soul” I felt finally filled in my friend’s basement was nothing more than a flood of endorphins at last quenching
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