EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
Alcohol affects different people in different ways and the effects of alcohol depend on many factors. Small to moderate amounts of alcohol can result in a relaxing, enjoyable state of mind. But, too much alcohol can cause many negative effects such as blurred state of mind, confusion, dizziness, vomiting, passing out, and even death from alcohol poisoning.
People absorb alcohol at different rates due to
- their weight and body type
- their metabolism
- their biological sex
- whether they have eaten before drinking
- what medication (if any) they’ve taken
- the strength and size of their drink
- how quickly they consume the drinks
Alcohol makes us think, move, and react slower. After one drink, we may feel more relaxed. As we continue to drink, our balance, coordination, balance and reaction time become more and more impaired. It also affects our judgment and ability to make decisions.
The effects of drinking alcohol depend on our state of mind (whether we are stressed out, bummed out, or feeling good).
Alcohol often lowers our inhibitions – it helps people to loosen up. Some find it easier to talk to other people or be with a group. Others might say or do things they probably wouldn’t do if they weren’t drinking. This is where they can get into trouble, as they may take risks that could harm them.
Taking risks when you’ve been drinking can lead to:
- Physical injury and possibly death – alcohol-related injury is the major cause of death in young people
- Sexual risk-taking – this can include unwanted sexual contact, unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases
- Suicide and self-harm – both of these are higher in young people who drink heavily or often
If you know about the effects of alcohol, you will have a better understanding of how alcohol affects you. Then you can reduce the chances of something bad happening to you.