Alcohol
Also known as: Grog, booze, liquor, piss.
What is alcohol?
Alcohol is a depressant drug that slows down the messages between the brain and the body. Alcohol is so common in Australian culture that many people do not see it as a drug, but in 2018–19 it accounted for 36 per cent of drug treatment episodes in across the country – making it the most commonly treated drug in Australia according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Immediate effects
- Relaxation
- Loss of inhibition
- Reduced coordination and concentration
- Slurred speech
- Intense moods
- Blackouts and memory loss
Long-term effects
- Regular colds or flu
- Impotency (male)
- Depression
- Cancer
- Poor memory and brain damage
- Difficulty having children (male and female)
- Liver disease
- Cancer
- High blood pressure and heart disease
How to reduce harm
- Drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 standard drinks in a day
- Drink water or other non-alcoholic beverages between alcoholic drinks
- Avoid drinking in rounds
- Order smaller serves of drinks
- Avoid high-alcohol content drinks
- Set the number of drinks you’ll have at the beginning of the night
- Eat while drinking to slow down your pace
How it works with other drugs
Combining alcohol and other drugs (including over the counter or prescription medications) can be unpredictable and dangerous. Mixing alcohol with other depressant drugs (such as heroin) can be fatal.
Physical risks
Alcohol can contribute to many different problems, including: ulcers, sexual issues, birth defects (such as Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder),bone density loss, vision problems, suppressed immune function, alcohol-related brain impairment and alcohol poisoning.
Legal risks
Alcohol is a legal substance in Australia, drinking alcohol in public places such as beaches, parks and streets is prohibited. People under 18 years cannot buy, receive or drink alcohol unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. It is illegal to drive or operate heavy machinery under the influence of alcohol. Penalties for breaking these laws include: fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving and other privileges.
For further assistance, check out these services:
The National Alcohol and Other Drug Helpline: 1800 250 015
Peer support services:
Further resources
- For clinicians: The Turning Point Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Withdrawal Guidelines
- Alcohol & Drug Foundation Drug Facts: Alcohol
- Self-help tools and applications recommended by ReachOut
What can I do next?
- Take a self-assessment to help you decide if you should consider seeking help.
- Get support from others who have been where you are now, in our community forums.
- Try out some of our tips in Making a change — they're simple and suitable no matter your stage in your journey.
