Previous brain-imaging studies have suggested cognitive deficits in alcoholic patients. New findings indicate that alcoholic patients show emotional processing deficits as well.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis defends against stress, starvation and illnesses.
A new study shows "stunned" adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol secretion among alcoholic patients, reflecting changes in the HPA axis.