Alcohol

In American society alcohol is a legal drug. Nonetheless, it is a depressant and is the leading drug of abuse. Use of alcohol affects judgment and decision-making abilities, slows down the central nervous system and brain function, and reduces coordination and reflex actions.

Signs and symptoms of abuse:

• Dulled mental processes
• Lack of coordination
• Slowed reaction time
• Poor judgment
• Reduced inhibitions

Health effects:

• Decreased sexual functioning
• Liver disease
• Increased cancers of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, esophagus, rectum, breast and skin
• Kidney disease
• Ulcers
• Spontaneous abortion
• Birth defects – leading cause of preventable retardation

Workplace issues:

• Many employers now test for the presence of alcohol along with other drug testing.
• Consuming alcohol increases the likelihood that a driver or equipment operator will be involved in an accident.
• Low doses of alcohol reduce inhibitions and affect decision making.
• People who would not ordinarily behave in inappropriate ways can be persuaded to change their behavior when they are drinking.
• Often employees are under the influence of alcohol when they make the decision to use drugs.