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Alcohol is one of the most widely used substances in the world. It is part of many cultures and social events, and in the UK it is legal for adults to buy and drink it. But just because something is legal does not mean it is safe. Alcohol can be especially harmful for children and teenagers, whose bodies and brains are still developing. This article looks at what alcohol is, why people drink it, and the dangers it brings.
The UK Government guidelines for low-risk drinking explain that one unit of alcohol is equal to 8 grams, or 1 centilitre, of pure alcohol. They recommend that both men and women should not drink more than 14 units in a week, and these units should be spread evenly across the week rather than consumed all at once.
In the UK, alcohol is a strictly controlled substance. While adults can buy and drink it legally, there are firm rules around young people and alcohol. These laws are in place to protect children and teenagers from the harmful effects that drinking can have on their health, wellbeing and future.
Alcohol may seem harmless at first, but it can cause serious damage to almost every organ in the body. Some effects happen quickly, such as poor judgment and loss of coordination, which can lead to accidents. Others build up over time, including permanent damage to the brain, heart, liver, and other vital organs. Drinking too much or too often can increase the risk of life-threatening illnesses and long-term health problems. The information below shows how alcohol can affect different parts of the body and why it is so dangerous.
Outlining the four phases of alcohol addiction, including the key signs and potential effects of each stage.
Written by Will Hinch, Mental Health Copywriter. Clinically reviewed by Beth Tudgay, Therapy Lead – Psychotherapist at Priory Hospital Woodbourne
The relationship between alcohol and mental health is complex.
You don’t need alcohol to fit in, have fun, or prove you’re grown up. Even though films, adverts and social media might make it seem like everyone is drinking, the reality is very different. In the UK, it’s illegal for under-18s to buy alcohol, and thousands of teenagers choose not to drink at all. Being alcohol-free is not a boring choice – it’s a confident one.
A casual glass of wine may seem harmless, but can cause problems over time.
By Camilla Foster
As a sober curious social drinker, Harry Bullmore found ditching alcohol to be monumental for his mood and confidence
A new Panorama report delves into Britain’s deadly relationship with alcohol. But how do you know if you too are a binge drinker?
By Maria Lally
We're supposed to be keeping an eye on how much we drink, but how many of us really know what a unit of alcohol is?
Alcohol and alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, which is a psychoactive and toxic substance with dependence-producing properties. Alcohol has been widely used in many cultures for centuries, but it is associated with significant health risks and harms.
Is red wine good for you? Is it healthier to drink a little than not at all? Is there such a thing as hangxiety? It’s time to sort fact from fiction.
By Joel Snape
Have you heard the term ‘sober curious?’ What is it, why is it causing so much interest, and how can you do it?
By Dr Deborah Lee
I had my first taste of alcohol at 11 years old; by 48, I was drinking three bottles of wine a day.
By Nikki Rushin
What’s my cancer risk from drinking alcohol?
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of cancer. Drinking alcohol doesn’t mean that you’ll definitely get cancer, but the risk is higher the more alcohol you drink.
After a long day, you might crave a glass of wine – it helps you relax, right? Wrong – in fact booze can have a negative impact on our mental wellbeing.
By Kai Conibear
What scientific evidence says about the genetic factors.
Eight in ten Britons aged 18 and above (82%) say they drink alcohol.
By Milan Dinic
Alcohol comes in a wide range of drinks with different alcoholic strengths, colours and tastes. Alcohol often has labels with useful information, such as how many units are in the drink. All labels are required by law to display the strength of the drink (alcohol by volume, or ABV).
