Alcohol and Other Drugs

Alcohol

Most people believe that they can handle their alcohol use, but sometimes it can get out of control.

Alcohol is one of the oldest and most widely used drugs in the world. There are many reasons people choose to drink alcohol. Trying something once or using it sometimes doesn’t mean a person will develop a drinking problem.

Alcohol, like other drugs, can cause problems depending how it’s used. It can cause injuries, disease, and other negative effects. It’s important to know what can happen so it doesn't cause more problems for you.

These ways of using alcohol can often cause big problems (problematic alcohol use):

drinking large amounts (binge drinking)
drinking and driving
using alcohol to deal with problems
using alcohol with other substances (e.g., some types of medicine, drugs)

If you’re using alcohol in any of these ways, get help.

Worried about a friend?

Friends are often the ones to notice a change. To learn how to support a friend, see Helping Others: For Friends.

Current as of: March 15, 2016

Author: Youth and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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