Alcohol Facts
Alternative names for alcohol:
Spirits, elixir, poison, booze, etc.
The main ingredient:
Ethyl alcohol, or ethanol, is an intoxicating ingredient found in beer, wine, and liquor. Alcohol is produced by the fermentation of yeast, sugars, and starches.
Why People May Use Alcohol
- Relax/Stress relief
- Social connection or making new connections
- "Social lubricant" to deal with anxiety
- Enhanced/Alter perception and sensation
- Boredom
- Curiosity
- Self-medicate for other mental health issues
Impact of Use
Academic Impact
- Poorer academic performance due to pracrastination and less time spent studying
- Tardiness and/or absenteeism from hangovers
- Difficulty retaining information, forgetfulness since alcohol interferes with memory and learning ability
Social Impact
- Relationship problems
- Increased aggression leading to physical and verbal fights
- Alcohol is a depressant which can lead to or exacerbate existing depression.
- Increased risk for being sexually assaulted and committing sexual assaults
- Difficulty coping with stress
Physiological Impact
- Potential for alcohol poisoning if too much alcohol is consumed in a short period of time leading to hospitalization or death
- Impaired coordination, reaction time and vision
- Can lead to unwanted or unprotected sex
- Can become addictive or lead to addiction
Academic and Legal Consequences
- If you are caught drinking under the age of 21, you may be subject to Univesity Judicial sanctions including suspension.
- Breaking your University Housing contract and possible eviction from University Housing
- If you drink and drive, you risk getting into an accident killing yourself or others, being fined from $4, 000 - $10,000 in DUI costs and losing your driving privileges.
- Possible loss of federally funded financial aid
Resources
Make an appointment with a CEASE counselor if you’d like to discuss the impact that marijuana is having on your life and explore possible alternatives at 338-2208.
Take eChug, an anonymous online alcohol assessment to learn more about your use.
Additional Links
