LESSON: UNDERSTANDING
ALCOHOL AND RESPONSIBLE
DRINKING
WHAT IS ALCOHOL?
• Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that,
when consumed, affects the brain and
central nervous system.
• The most commonly consumed form of
alcohol is ethanol, which is found in beer,
wine, and spirits.
• Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream
and can have various effects on the body
and mind, depending on how much is
consumed and how quickly.
3 TYPES OF ALCOHOL
• Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) –also called
beverage alcohol. The only alcohol that
can be consumed in regulated amount.
• Isopropyl – often used in laboratories as
solvent and rubbing alcohol that has
cooling and disinfecting qualities
• Methanol/Methyl – used as industrial
solvent, ex. Paint remover. This kind of
alcohol is also used to remove other
chemicals
HOW ALCOHOL AFFECTS THE BODY:
When you drink alcohol, it affects several
systems in your body, including the
brain. Here are some of the key effects:
•Central Nervous System (CNS)
Depressant: Alcohol slows down brain
activity, which can impair coordination,
judgment, and reaction time. This is why
it can be dangerous to drive or operate
machinery after drinking
• Impaired Judgment: Alcohol can reduce
inhibitions, leading to risky behavior. It can
also affect decision-making and increase
the likelihood of accidents or injuries.
• Liver: The liver is responsible for
breaking down alcohol, but excessive
drinking can overwhelm its ability to
process alcohol, leading to liver damage
over time
• Heart: Drinking too much alcohol over
time can contribute to high blood
pressure, heart disease, and strokes.
EFFECTS OF DRINKING ON MENTAL
HEALTH:
Long-Term Effect
Short-Term of Alcohol
•Unintentional Injuries
• Hang-over
• Intentional Injuries
• Slurred Speech
• Loss of Productivity
• Headache
• Alcohol Poisoning
• Drowsiness
• Liver Disease
• Vomitting
• Increase Family
• Upset Stomach
Problems
• Diarrhe
• Highblood Pressure
• Intoxication
• Mental Health Disorder
• Breathing Difficulties
• Depression and Anxiety
• Impaired Judgement
• Social and relationship
• Unconsiousness
problem
THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPONSIBLE
DRINKING:
To enjoy alcohol safely, it's important to
drink responsibly:
• Know Your Limits
• Eat Before Drinking
• Hydrate
• Never Drink and Drive
• Pace Yourself
• Know When to Seek Help
WHEN ALCOHOL IS NOT SAFE:
• If you are pregnant or planning to become
pregnant, as alcohol can harm the
developing fetus.
• If you have certain medical conditions or
are taking medications that interact
negatively with alcohol.
• If you plan on driving, operating
machinery, or engaging in any activity
that requires full concentration.
• Drinking alcohol can be part of
social life, but it’s important to do so
responsibly. Understanding the
effects of alcohol, recognizing your
limits, and drinking in moderation
can help prevent negative health
consequences and accidents. If you
ever feel like alcohol is becoming a
problem for you, it’s crucial to seek
help and support.
Remember, the key to
enjoying alcohol
responsibly is
moderation, awareness,
and respect for both your
own body and the safety
of those around you.