Alcohol is one of the oldest drugs in existence, made with the fermenting of fruits, vegetables, or grains, its wide spread acceptance and use also makes it one of the most abused drugs in the world today. Alcohol comes in many different forms, all of which can be highly addictive, and has one of the most dangerous withdrawals of all drugs.

Alcohol is a central nervous center depressant. Parts of the brain are slowed down with alcohol impairs one’s ability to: speak, see, walk, and impairs judgment. High dosage of alcohol can inhibit vital brain functions, slowing down breathing and heart rate, often times resulting in coma or death.

The risks

• Alcohol is highly addictive, and one, if not the, most abused drug today.

• The withdrawal of alcohol can be very dangerous, even resulting in death. The hangover after the effects of alcohol have worn off is mild withdrawal. Users find that they can put off a hangover by consuming more alcohol, quickly leading into a cycle of abuse. 

• Alcohol retards motor skills, causing slurred speech, an inability to walk straight, or see straight.

• Often alcohol impairs judgment; making someone seem more confident, and do things they wouldn’t normally do, which can result in injury, unwanted sexual activity, or even death.

• Alcohol can cause heart disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers, heart circulation disorders, and brain damage.

• Accidents involving alcohol use is a leading cause of death among young adults in America.

• An overdose or even the withdrawal of alcohol can also cause death. Death can also occur as a result of diseases set on by alcohol abuse.

The Signs

• Trouble walking, slurred speech, and blurred vision are often signs that someone is under the influence of alcohol.

• The psychological effects while under the influence of alcohol range from tiredness and depression to drastically increased self-conscience and energy. Any abnormal mood swings, especially ones paired with the physical signs, could be from alcohol.

• Vomiting and headache after the physical and psychological effects have worn off can be from alcohol withdrawal.