Alcohol related highway deaths are the number of 1 killer of 15-24 year olds. Alcohol affects every tissue and organ in the body. It reaches the brain within minutes and slows reflexes, impacts coordination, and impairs judgment. Alcohol intoxication is associated with increased risk for suicide, pregnancy, physical violence, and accidental death. Of students currently enrolled, the same number will eventually die from alcohol related causes as will get masters and doctorates.
Studies indicate that alcoholism runs in families and genetic vulnerability for alcoholism exists.
Additionally, there is an increased likelihood of becoming involved with an alcoholic or other drug addicted partner. Although alcohol may give you an initial feeling of relief, it will ultimately make you feel even more depresses if you already have depressed tendencies. Some people use alcohol as a social lubricant, they feel they need a drink before going into a social situation because of anxiety and insecurity. Your use of alcohol may be masking an underlying problem with anxiety that should be treated. It is usually defined in terms of quantity of drinks, typically 4-5 at one sitting in a short period of time, but it can also include just reaching a high blood alcohol level or drinking a lot.