What it is
Alcohol (the kind found in beer, wine, and spirits) is a depressant drug, meaning it slows down the brain and central nervous system. It is legal for adults aged 18 and over in Australia and is widely used socially. Because it is so common and accepted, the risks are easy to underestimate.
How it affects you
Alcohol affects everyone differently depending on body size, how much is consumed, how quickly, and whether food has been eaten. As the amount rises, so does the impairment.
- Small amounts: relaxation, lowered inhibitions, talkativeness.
- More: slurred speech, poor balance and coordination, impaired judgement.
- Large amounts: vomiting, blackouts, and alcohol poisoning, which can stop breathing and be fatal.
Why it can be addictive
Regular heavy drinking can lead to dependence, where the body and mind come to rely on alcohol. An important warning: withdrawal from heavy, long-term drinking can be medically dangerous, causing tremors, seizures, and confusion. People who drink heavily should not stop suddenly without medical advice.
The risks
- Drink driving and accidents, injuries, and risky decisions while affected.
- Long-term harm to the liver, heart, brain, and an increased risk of several cancers.
- Drinking during pregnancy can seriously harm the developing baby.
- Australian guidelines suggest healthy adults drink no more than 10 standard drinks a week and no more than 4 on any one day to reduce the risk of harm.
Signs it may be a problem
- Drinking more or more often than planned, or struggling to stop once started.
- Needing alcohol to relax, cope, or feel normal.
- Drinking affecting work, money, health, or relationships.
Where to get help (Australia)
Free and confidential support is available. You do not have to do this on your own.