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What are the effects of alcohol on the body? Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant with a range of side effects. While not every person who drinks alcohol is an alcoholic, it’s important to understand the risks of drinking alcohol and the potential effects of alcohol on the body. There are both short-term and long-term effects of alcohol consumption. Serious long-term effects are often only evident after a lengthy period of alcohol abuse. Be warned that if a person has a physical dependency on alcohol, it can be dangerous for them to stop drinking suddenly as there may be side effects from withdrawal which can be fatal. If detoxification is necessary, this should only be done in consultation with a qualified medical professional.       Short Term Effects of Alcohol The effect of alcohol on the drinker in the short term depends on the quantity and circumstances of consumption. Drinking after a meal, for example, does slow the absorption of alcohol into the body. Usually, after a few drinks, most people who consume alcohol experience a mild intoxication. Generally speech and movement are affected and the person’s reaction times are slowed. Judgement and concentration are also impaired. Because alcohol is a diuretic, short term effects can include dehydration – which contributes to hangovers. In severe cases of binge drinking, a person may become unconscious and may possibly contract alcohol poisoning, the most serious potential side-effect of which is death. In addition to the risk of dying from too much alcohol in the blood (poisoning) there is an increased risk of death through asphyxiation by vomiting while unconscious.   Long Term Effects of Alcohol The long term effects of alcohol abuse on the body are severe. Alcohol affects virtually every organ, including the brain. Alcohol increases the risk of a number of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, cirrhosis of the liver, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer. Other effects may include permanent damage to the central nervous system. Several psychiatric disorders have also been associated with long-term alcohol abuse. These include depression, personality disorders and phobias. Neurological deficits have also been reported including impairments of the working memory and visuospacial abilities.   Alcohol Addiction Counselling Like any addiction, alcoholism is a disease which requires long term treatment. Programmes that combine individual and group counselling, working a 12-Step recovery programme and that advocate a healthy lifestyle have been shown to have the most success in preventing relapse. Contact Oasis to find out more about treatment and counselling for alcohol addiction at their rehab facility in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa.