In this section
External Links
Thetford Centre
Do you live in South Norfolk? If you do, why not visit our Connexions Centre in Thetford. You could use the computers there, look through our information library or talk to a Personal Adviser.
Drink
Other names
Bevy, booze, plonk, drink, tipple, lash and other brand names
What is it?
Alcohol is a liquid made from fruits, vegetables and grains. Most are mixtures of [ethyl alcohol (ethanol)].
It is a depressant substance and different products have varying levels of alcohol in them.
How is it used?
Comes in liquid form and is a drink.
Effects
- Immediate effects can depend on the strength and amount used, your age, gender, physical build, mental state and other factors
- Using alcohol can lead to emotional highs and lows, uncoordinated movement, blackouts and unconsciousness
- Reaction times and decision making will be affected
- Alcohol can cause double vision, slurred speech, dehydration, headaches, nausea, dizziness, sickness
- Long term use can cause weight gain, high blood pressure, liver, heart and mental health problems
- Small amounts may make the user feel relaxed and more able to talk to other people, but it can also reduce a persons self control and inhibitions
Risks
- Regular heavy use can lead to dependence of physical addiction problem
- Feelings of depression, low mood
- Liver, heart, stomach and psychological problems
- Excessive use can lead to acute alcohol poisoning requiring medical attention
- Fitting, coma, heart attack leading to possible death
- Overdose is a particular risk if mixed with other drugs, especially other depressants
The law
- It is illegal to sell alcohol to any person under the age of 18 and it is also illegal for someone else to buy it for anyone under the age of 18.
- It is illegal for any person under the age of 18 to consume alcohol in a public place.
- People over 14 yrs of age can visit licensed premises but cannot consume alcohol
- 16 yr olds can purchase some alcohol (e.g. beer, cider or perry) to drink with a meal in a restaurant but not in a bar.
- It is an offence to drink and drive or to ride your bike or to be drunk and disorderly in a public.
- It's illegal to give alcohol to a child under the age of 5.
