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The downside of drinking too much |
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 There's no getting away from it - heavy drinking, especially on a regular basis, can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Alcohol dependence or alcoholism
- Sexual difficulties, including impotence
- Cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer
- Pancreatitis
- Stomach disorders, such as ulcers
- Mood changes
- Brain damage including memory loss or dementia
- Certain types of cancer, especially breast cancer
- Anxiety, stress, depression, poor concentration
- Increased risk of heart disease and certain types of stroke
- Potentially fatal alcohol poisoning
Even getting drunk occasionally can have serious consequences. It impairs your judgement and can increase risky behaviour, which could result in:
- Injuries and accidents
- Unsafe sex, which could result in sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies
- Fights, arguments and relationship problems
- Getting into trouble with the police
Even relatively moderate amounts of alcohol can be harmful sometimes. For instance, when you're pregnant, driving, taking some medications, or doing sports or activities that need judgement and coordination. To find out how alcohol affects people in different circumstances, click here .
If you're worried about your own or someone else's drinking, you can call this free helpline, in complete confidence. They can put you in touch with your local alcohol advice centre for help and advice. Call Drinkline on 0800 917 8282 (open 24 hours)
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The Effects of Alcohol 
