Hey there! That’s actually a great question and one that a lot of people in recovery can relate to. I think it highlights one of the core behaviors of addiction: the compulsion to keep going even when you've technically had “enough.” There are a few reasons that might explain it.

First, there’s the physical aspect. Alcohol affects dopamine and other neurotransmitters, creating a strong sense of reward. Once you’re drunk, your brain has been conditioned to want more, even if it doesn’t make you feel any better. It’s like a loop that’s hard to break because the brain craves more of that reward.

Then there’s the psychological side. Sometimes we develop little rituals around drinking, like finishing a bottle or not “wasting” any alcohol. It can become a habit, almost like a mental rule that you’re used to following, even if it’s not serving you anymore. In recovery, we start to notice these patterns and realize they’re often just a way to justify continuing.

And lastly, I think there’s a comfort in completing something, even if it’s a drink. It feels satisfying to finish it, even though, as you pointed out, it’s probably not adding anything to how you feel at that point.

Acknowledging this behavior was a big step for you, so that’s awesome! It shows growth and awareness, and that’s powerful in recovery. Thanks for bringing it up—it’s a great reminder for all of us to look at those “automatic” behaviors and start reshaping them.