Eli5: If alcohol is a depressant, why does our mood increase after drinking it?

Question

Eli5: If alcohol is a depressant, why does our mood increase after drinking it?

In: Biology

Answer 1

There’s always an initial dopamine burst which is the “feel good” chemical our brain gives off. When we drink, our brain does this for a bit. Over time that fades into the depressant we all know and love.

Edit: I would like to add, this “feel good reward” chemical is the reason people believe drinking more makes people feel even better. But in reality, the dopamine does not increase at all, and you are only gaining more depressant into your body. Hence the dangers of alcohol. Drink responsibly :).