It can be tempting to drink for the “mood-boosting” side effects, but this can lead to alcohol abuse or dependence on alcohol. Under the guidance of a medical professional, stimulants may be helpful for certain individuals. However, misuse of stimulants can have serious health consequences, including physical dependence and stimulant addiction, also known as stimulant use disorder.

Moderate consumption of alcohol can lead to relaxation and reduced stress levels, but overconsumption can quickly lead to negative side effects. Haven Detox New England is a state-of-the-art, Joint Commission-accredited medical detox and residential treatment center. Our mission is to provide our clients with the highest level of care while they detox and begin their journey to recovery. We offer a variety of therapy programs that are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Side Effects of Alcohol Abuse

They don’t make you “depressed” — they calm down activity in your CNS. For example, tequila is often consumed in the form of shots taken in short succession, but wine is typically sipped slowly as a source of relaxation. The more you drink, the more likely you will experience an emotional response such as rage or depression. Individual or group therapy, for example, might assist in working through problems rather than avoiding them.

Directly translated to human beings, this would mean that if a person who weighs 70 kg (150 lb) drank a 500 mL (17 US  fl oz) glass of pure ethanol, they would theoretically have a 50% risk of dying. Footprints to Recovery’s drug and alcohol rehab centers are trusted and accredited. Our alcoholism treatment providers are highly credentialed, compassionate professionals who truly care about your well-being and recovery. We’ve helped thousands of people take back their lives from addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol abuse, call us.

Overcoming Alcohol Addiction at TruHealing Gaithersburg

As you can see, while alcohol does have some stimulant effects, it’s scientifically classified as a depressant. You’ll typically feel the stimulant effects at a BAC of under 0.05mg/l. But once you Top 5 Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Sober House go over 0.08mg/l, the depressant effects will take over. Ethanol is typically consumed as a recreational substance by mouth in the form of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits.

• Once the person has safely detoxed, they should enter a rehabilitation program.
• CNS depressants slow down brain activity by intensifying the effects of GABA—gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter.
• While it’s true that alcohol can mimic some stimulant effects, you will likely experience its depressant effects after several drinks, the day after drinking, or during alcohol withdrawal.

Understanding the impacts alcohol abuse has on our mental health can help us make better decisions when it comes to drinking and moderation. Much like taking a cigarette break, having a drink or two is often used to unwind and decompress from a stressful day or situation. If alcohol can help users forget about their stresses, how can it be a depressant? It can have a range of effects on your mental and physical health. Although it is legal and readily available, understanding the potential consequences of drinking is essential. If you’re having trouble stopping or reducing your drinking, Volpicelli suggests talking with your doctor about getting support from a mental health counselor or alcohol treatment program.

How Is Alcohol Like a Stimulant?

Marketing companies spend a lot of time making alcohol look like a lot of fun. Filmmakers, television shows, writers, golfers, high-end resorts, and local bars all do the same. Everyone spends a lot of time and money insisting that alcohol can make you feel better.