Alcohol
facts
Warning Signs
Resources
General Facts about Alcohol:
Alcohol is a depressant that slows down vital functions in the body. The more one consumes the higher level of impairment. Alcohol effects each person differently and can cause damage to several organs in the body with heavy use.
Side Effects of Alcohol:
Lack of Coordination
Blurred Vision
Slurred Speech
Slowed Reaction Time
Vomiting and Hangovers
Blackouts
Injuries/Accidents
Alcohol and the Body:
Brain: The adolescent brain is not fully developed until the age of 25. Alcohol use effects decision making and impulse control. Damaging the brain with heavy alcohol use can lead to permanant changes making mental illness more likely and cognition more difficult.
Liver: Heavy drinking can lead to a variety of liver problems and inflammations including Steatosis, or fatty liver, Alcoholic hepatitis, Fibrosis or Cirrhosis.
Heart: Increase in heart rate and blood pressure. With heavy use, it can lead to a weakened heart and irregular heart beat. All increasing chances of a heart attack or stroke.
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, esophagus, pharynx, larynx, liver, and breast (NIAAA)
Signs of Problem Alcohol Use:
Smell of alcohol on the breath, slurred speech, lack of coordination, nausea or vomiting, hangovers
Memory loss or blackouts
Accidents or injuries while drinking
Drinking even though there are physical conditions that can be worsened by drinking
Alcohol use interferes with work, school or other activities
Alcohol use despite knowing he or she will be driving, boating or doing something else that would be risky if impaired
Signs of Addiction
A person cannot control how much they drink
A person needs more alcohol to create a "buzz"
A person may feel sick, shaky or restless when alcohol use is ceased, indicating withdrawal
Even though there is harm to family, friends, education or career, the person still drinks
A person gives up other activities they enjoy so they can drink
A person tries to conceal their drinking and makes excuses
A person would like to quit drinking but despite repeated attempts, still drinks
Alcohol becomes a focal point in their life