Alcohol

Alcohol

The facts

Also know as booze, bevy.

Effects

Increased sociability and confidence, emotions are heightened, inhibitions lowered.

Alcohol is a depressant. Excess use can lead to memory loss, vomiting, dehydration, uncoordinated, slurred speech and loss of balance.

Risks

Coordination and judgement can be affected leading to accidental injury and victimisation (e.g. rape).
Long-term use can lead to liver, heart and stomach problems. Mixing with other drugs can be very dangerous. Regular use of alcohol can lead to high psychological and physical dependence.

Alcohol is seen by many as a more socially acceptable drug, however it is blamed for contributing to all kinds of problems from violent crime to car-related deaths.